John D. Maxwell was sworn in on January 2, 2019, and currently serves as the Chair of the Scott County Board of Supervisors. A lifelong farmer, Maxwell owns and operates Cinnamon Ridge Dairy with his family in Scott County, where his family has farmed for five generations. The home farm where he grew up was designated a Century Farm in 2010. In recognition of his contributions to agriculture, the Maxwell family was named the 2025 Wallaces Master Farmer.
Maxwell graduated from the University of Iowa in 1984 and established Cinnamon Ridge Dairy in 1989. Starting with a 40-cow tie stall barn, he expanded and modernized the operation over the years. His daughter, Amy, returned to the farm in 2012, and together they transitioned to robotic milking using four Lely robots. Today, the farm also raises Jersey beef steers and a cow-calf beef herd, operates a wean-to-finish hog operation, and grows corn and soybeans. Since 2013, Cinnamon Ridge Dairy has also been producing cheese, a venture managed by John’s brother, Edwin is the cheesemaker.
In 1997, Maxwell was named National Outstanding Young Farmer, which led to a partnership with John Deere to host farm tours showcasing modern equipment and agricultural practices. The farm's agri-tourism business has since flourished, welcoming over 7,000 visitors annually - including 2,000 international farmers, 2,000 domestic groups, and 3,000 school-age children. All the tours center on education.
In addition to his role as a county supervisor, Maxwell has served on numerous boards, including the North Scott School Board, where he was a member for several years and served as president for four years.
Maxwell farms alongside his wife, Joan, his brother Edwin, and his daughter Amy, continuing a legacy of agricultural excellence and community involvement in Scott County.