2012 douglas county voter's guide from the alexandria echo press

Voters to decide keyraces at national,state and local level;new legislative linesadd wrinkle to election

By Al [email protected]

Are you ready to vote?Residents throughout Douglas

County will have some key decisions tomake come Election Day, November 6.

The purpose of this Voters Guide is tohelp residents be more prepared whenthey’re handed their ballots.

The guide contains questions-and-an-swers from candidates on the local,state and national level, as well as vot-ing and precinct information.

The stakes are high for the 2012 elec-tion.

Not only will voters cast their ballotsfor president and U.S. Senate andHouse races, they’ll also select candi-dates for the Minnesota Legislature,which has new legislative boundariesbecause of redistricting.

Douglas County is now part of twoMinnesota Senate districts, 8 and 12,and three House districts, 8B, 12A and12B. Four current office holders will beon the ballot – Bill Ingebrigtsen (Dis-trict 8), Torrey Westrom (District 12),Mary Franson (District 8B) and PaulAnderson (District 12B) — but theareas they represent have changed.Their challengers include Dan Skogen(District 8), John Schultz (District 12),Bob Cunniff (District 8B), and RickRosenfield (District 12B). The HouseDistrict 12A race doesn’t have any in-cumbents and is between Dave Hol-man, Scott Dutcher and Jay McNamar.

Other big decisions at the state levelinclude two constitutional amendments.

One would define marriage as betweenone man and one woman, and the otherone would require voters to show a gov-ernment-issued ID in order to vote.

Drilling down to the local level, thisyear’s election contains many interest-ing races.

Because of redistricting, all five Dou-glas County commissioner districts areup for election. The choices for votersare (incumbents listed first):

District 1 – Jerry Johnson or BonnieHuettl.

District 2 – Norm Salto or JamesStratton.

District 3 – Bev Bales or Jerry Rapp.District 4 – Paul C. Anderson or Char-

lie Meyer.District 5 – Dan Olson or Carol Wen-

ner.Many local residents will also have a

decision to make for mayor, city counciland school board positions.

In Alexandria, Sara Carlson and MarkPederson are vying for mayor, and twocouncil seats are contested: Ward 3,Owen Miller and William Stark, andWard 5, Elroy Frank and Todd Jensen.

Other contested city races in DouglasCounty include: Carlos mayor – HerbyDahl and Daniel Plowman; Carlos coun-cil (two positions) – Todd Burgess,Richard Pierson, Jason Thimmesh;Garfield mayor – Dan Kalina and GayeMounsdon; Kensington council (two po-

sitions) – Michael Johnson, AmandaKramer, Brian Randt; Miltona council(two positions) – Rick Alton, Alan Bet-termann, Kirk Smith; Nelson council(two positions) – Michael Erickson,Beverly Hansen, Jason Karl; and Os-akis council (two positions) – LarryDillehay, Kyle Kostrzewski, Jerry Olson.

One township in the county, BrandonTownship, holds its elections in Novem-ber. There are no contested races forthe two supervisor and one treasurerpositions, but residents will vote on aballot question to decide whether theclerk and treasurer positions should beappointed by the town board ratherthan elected.

Three other local ballot questions willbe decided this election, all involvingthe sale of liquor. The cities of Brandonand Osakis are asking voters whethertheir city councils should be allowed toissue on-sale liquor licenses to hotels,clubs and restaurants. (Each city cur-rently owns and operates a municipalliquor store.) The city of Osakis is alsoasking if on-sale liquor sales should beallowed on Sundays.

Douglas County voters will also de-cide who should be their voice on theirlocal school board.

In Alexandria School District 206,there is a contested race for Position 7between two newcomers, Laura Knud-sen and Angie Krebs.

In Brandon School District 207, fivecandidates have filed for four positions.They include Kevin Challes, TimothyLauthen, Cheryl Schaffran, Arthur Vin-son and Chad Way. A special election tofill an at-large spot is also taking placebetween Kim Fuchs and Michael Randt.

Evansville School District 208 hasfour candidates running for the fouravailable positions – David Anderson,Ethan Henneman, Kent Huisman andBritta Richter.

Osakis School District 213 has a racewith four candidates vying for threespots – Craig Cody, Pat Hildebrandt,Shari Maloney and Genny Maus Le-Brun.

Minnewaska School District 2149 hasfive candidates running for four posi-tions – Lonnie Hoffman, Jeff Holtberg,Randy Kinney, Robert Mork and JimPeters.

In West Central Area School District2342, six candidates are in the runningfor four spots – Daryl Amundson, JillBeuckens, Chad Biss, Tina Lindquist,Steven Martineau and Richard Toms.

In Parkers Prairie School District 547,four candidates have filed for three po-sitions – Glenn Cornish, Meagan Moen,Mary Peterson and Jeffrey Samuelson.

Election day is Tuesday, November 6, 2012Polling places open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.(unless otherwise noted on page B3)

VotersGuide

Much at stake on November 6

District 206 School Board I B2Alexandria Mayor I B3

Alexandria City Council I B4,5

U.S. House District 7 I B8MN State Senate I B8,9

MN State Representative I B7Douglas County Board I B9-12

INDEX TO ELECTION RACES

2012

ECHO PRESS

FRIDAY | OCTOBER 12 | 2012 B1

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Q.Please list your background andspecific qualifications for this

position.

AAs an active community member, Ihave served on several local

boards, most recently as the presidentof the Early Childhood Parent AdvisoryBoard for District 206 and as the pres-ident of the Friends of Knute Volun-teers through Knute Nelson CareCenters. Being engaged in both the is-sues of our aging population and edu-cation has given me a uniqueunderstanding of the challenges facingour community.

My husband and I are the parents ofa second grader at Carlos Elementaryand a preschooler in the district’s Cre-ating Learners program. As a parentfrom a GMC school, I am in the positionto work to improve the connection be-tween our district and the Garfield, Mil-tona, and Carlos Elementarycommunities. Our GMC schools cur-rently have no representation on ourschool board. My experience as a par-ent participating in our district’s earlychildhood programing will allow me toshare important insights to early learn-ing. Our district has an excellent earlychildhood and preschool program thatpositively impacts our community innumerous ways.

I am a lifelong learner, with a bache-lor’s degree in media from the BrooksInstitute in Santa Barbara, California.The technological changes that haveoccurred in the industries of media andcommunications have been swift anddramatic. I have experienced first-hand the challenge facing our studentsin a future with rapidly advancing tech-nology. I understand the need to em-power our students with 21st centuryskills including critical thinking, adapt-ability and self-direction.

Q.What do you view as the biggestchallenge facing the school dis-

trict right now and how would youdeal with it?

AMeeting the educational needs ofour students in a period of increas-

ing cost, decreasing resources and arapidly changing future is the chal-lenge facing all schools. Meeting thischallenge will require commitmentfrom our community. Our school boardand district must increase communi-cation to educate our community aboutthese challenges.

We must engage our community inadvocating for our schools with local,state and national leaders. Special ed-ucation funding reform, deferment ofpayments to schools and the disparitybetween funding of districts statewideare all political issues that impact ourschools but are not controlled by ourdistrict.

It is important that we “think ourside the chalk board” to look for newapproaches to education. We need touse technology, engage communitystake-holders and partner with AlexTech to ensure we are making the mostof the resources that are available to usfrom right here in our community.Change in education can be difficult toaccept because we all have strongemotional ties to our own school expe-riences. However, now more than everwe need to approach the future of edu-cation with an open mind.

Q.The district’s current levy refer-endum expires in 2014. Do you

support calling for a new referen-dum? Also, explain any cost savingideas you have for the district.

AThe referendum will expire in 2014,which means our community will

need to vote on school funding. Unlikecity and county organizations, theschool board must ask for funding ap-proval directly from voters. The up-

coming referendum will either ask ourcommunity to maintain current fund-ing levels or increase support for ourschools.

I support the district’s commitmentto meeting each student at their edu-cational level through individualizedlearning plans that track a student’sneeds and interests from kindergartenthrough 12th grade. This is necessaryto prepare our students for their future,as well as meeting the increased stan-dards mandated by state and federalgovernments. In order to meet thesegoals, we must lower the number ofstudents in the classes that have seenincreasing enrollment. Support mustbe given to teachers to give them theresources to track student achieve-ment. We must also provide educationto our district families on the rising ex-pectations in our schools and empowerthem to support their children.

Whether we can achieve this withoutasking voters for an increase in their fi-nancial support will depend on severalfactors. First, decisions made by stateand federal governments in upcomingsessions regarding funding and educa-tional mandates. Second, the district’sability to recapture students who haveleft for alternative learning environ-ments and neighboring districts willimpact the budget. Recapturing even100 students could have a positive ef-fect on our school funding. Lastly, inany budgeting issue, ensuring you arespending wisely must be taken intoconsideration. Selecting specific costsaving measures without the completeknowledge I would have as a boardmember would be a guess that I couldnot commit to now.

Q.Describe your leadership style.How do you make tough deci-

sions?

AI am an enthusiastic, committedand positive leader. Making sound

decisions in difficult situations involveslistening, learning and engaging oth-ers. As a member of your school board,I will build relationships with commu-nity stakeholders, including districtstaff and parents. I will work to em-power our community in their contin-ued support of our schools. I amcommitted to the vision of creating apremier school district that leads in ed-ucational excellence.

Q.According to the district’s strategic plan, special education

services continue to grow while re-imbursement is disproportionatelylow. How would you address thisproblem?

AThe needs of special educationcontinue to grow while reimburse-

ment levels remain disproportionatelylow. Reimbursement is low because ofunfunded mandates from state andfederal government. The difference be-tween funding reimbursements andexpenditures is made up through gen-eral fund dollars. This is not sustain-able and will have a negative impact onall our learners. All students across thespectrum of learning deserve the op-portunity to meet their full potential.

Currently, 24 percent of our studentpopulation receives special educationservices. Special education comprises22 percent of the district’s budget andhas nearly 75 full-time instructionalstaff. Our community will need to part-ner with our state and federal govern-ments to reform the reimbursementmodel. Our district will need to evalu-ate our programs to ensure we are de-livering cost-effective educationfocused on student achievement. I be-lieve the district’s adopted vision of fo-cusing on individual learning needs ofstudents will benefit all students.

B2 e x t r a | FRIDAY | OCTOBER 12 | 2012 ECHO PRESS

�� DISTRICT 206 SCHOOL BOARD (Two candidates vying for one position)

QPlease list your background andspecific qualifications for this posi-

tion.

AI had the privilege of growing up inAlexandria and being educated in the

Alexandria public schools (1988 graduate).I also received a B.A. of Nursing fromGustavus Adolphus College. My husband,Dean, 1989 graduate of Jefferson HighSchool, and I have three children; a thirdgrade daughter at Woodland Elementary,and twin boys that are 4 years old. Ourchildren are fourth generation students ofAlexandria public schools.

I’m currently home with my children.However, my previous work experienceincludes 16 years as a public health nurse.A good share of this position involvedworking with school district staff to de-velop and implement services for childrenutilizing special education services. I alsohave experience with early-childhoodscreenings, school immunization law, chil-dren’s mental health, transition planning,and family support.

I have volunteered in our daughter’sclassroom on a regular basis, also withGirl Scouts, Habitat for Humanity, Moth-ers of Preschoolers (MOPS) advisoryboard, and as a Sunday school teacher.

Our community has much to be proudof with our students and our schools. I’mrunning for school board to ensure thosesame opportunities for my own childrenand those of the community.

Q.What do you view as the biggestchallenge facing the school district

right now and how would you deal withit?

AI believe the biggest challenge facingthe school district relates to education

and the movement away from traditionaltextbook teaching to virtual instructionalresources and keeping up with ever-changing technology. The district has con-siderable investment in technology.However, there is inconsistent teacherskill level with technology and its applica-tion in the classroom.

I support the district’s five-year strate-gic plan, which outlines a strong vision forexpanded college course offerings, dis-tance learning, “flipped classroom” mod-els at the high school level; andprofessional development related to tech-nology.

With much attention on the new highschool, we also need to keep our focus onthe younger grades, ensuring small classsizes and adequate technology tostrengthen proficiencies in the core areasof math and reading. Our children are ofthe digital/gadget age, and studies showthat using technology is a key to locking ina student’s interest and motivating themto do better in school.

Q.The district’s current levy referen-dum expires in 2014. Do you sup-

port calling for a new referendum?Also, explain any cost saving ideas youhave for the district.

AThe school district’s finances aremanaged very well, despite relatively

flat state aid and reimbursement chal-lenges. However, despite budget cutsacross all areas, the district is currently ina deficit spending mode.

Minnesota’s schools have come to relyon their communities for additional fund-ing as evidenced by 301 of Minnesota’s 337school districts utilizing an operating levylast year.

Per pupil funding from the state is$5,224, increasing only 1.95 percent in thepast five years. Our current referendumrevenue is $390 per resident pupil,whereas the state average is $751.26.

Unless we want to face severe cuts tobasic services/programs, which I don’tthink anyone wants, with current funding,I see no way around asking the commu-nity for an operating levy. Details wouldneed to be presented to the communityregarding the level of funding needed andspecific goals that would be met with thatfunding.

Our community has never shied awayfrom its responsibility of educating ourchildren, and I believe that most wouldsacrifice to ensure educational opportuni-ties that will prepare our children for theworld they will encounter following grad-uation.

The new high school project is currently$230,000 under budget and ahead ofschedule. Current board members havepromised to spend every dollar wisely, ex-pecting a lot from contractors/subcon-tractors and material suppliers; I wouldtoo.

Also, the curriculum changes envi-sioned in the strategic plan may enticesome of the 23.8 percent of eligible districtstudents that are utilizing alternativeschool options, including open enrollment,homeschooling, private/charter schools,and Postsecondary Enrollment Options(PSEO) back to the district on either a fullor part-time basis, bringing with them thestate aid dollars that we’re currently miss-ing out on.

As our virtual instruction methods aredeveloped, additional revenue could alsobe captured by supplying online training,services, and classes to other districts ona fee-for-use basis. As a school boardmember, I’d be open to cost saving ideasfrom staff and the public.

Q.Describe your leadership style.How do you make tough decisions?

AMy leadership style is one of being in-formed. I would seek to understand

core issues and gain perspective from oth-ers more knowledgeable than myselfabout that issue, gather facts, brainstormsolutions, and consider options, whileweighing impact and tradeoffs.

I believe in proactive planning, begin-ning with the end or goal in mind. I believethat there is much to be learned from pastdecisions, including mistakes. I wouldseek to have open communication be-tween the district and the community.Tough decisions are best made with pub-lic input and with the best interests of allstudents in mind.

To keep the public’s trust, it’s importantto be open with parents and the publicabout the issues facing the school districtand the reasons behind decisions that arebeing made.

Q.According to the district’s strategic plan, special education

services continue to grow while reim-bursement is disproportionately low.How would you address this problem?

ADuring the 2011-2012 school year, 808students (24 percent of population) re-

ceived some form of special education.Special education funding provides 10 per-cent of the district’s general revenue;however, 22 percent of the budget is spenton special education.

Since the Individuals with DisabilitiesEducation Act’s inception in 1975, specialeducation has been an unfunded govern-ment mandate. While as a district we canensure that services are being deliveredefficiently, the bottom line is that these arestill mandated services that can’t be cut.The disparity of increasing costs of specialeducation and the partial level of reim-bursement is really an issue that needs tobe dealt with at the state and federal lev-els.

There is currently a proposal from theMinnesota Department of Education toreplace the current percentage reim-bursement model of special educationfunding with weighted pupil funding. Thistype of funding acknowledges that, as anexample, it costs more to provide servicesfor a child with severe emotional behaviordisorders than a child with a simplespeech delay, and awards funding moreproportionately. This funding changewould benefit our school district, and ourrepresentatives need to hear from us(both school district and the public) to getthis change into legislation.

ANGIE KREBSDistrict 206 School Board

LAURA KNUDSENDistrict 206 School Board

Douglas County voters will have ahand in deciding two prosed Consti-tutional amendments on the ballot.

The first one concerns the defini-tion of marriage: “Shall the Min-nesota Constitution be amended toprovide that only a union of one manand one woman shall be valid or rec-ognized as a marriage in Min-nesota?”

If this passes, the following wouldbe added to the Minnesota Consti-tution: Article XIII, Sec. 13. “Only aunion of one man and one womanshall be valid or recognized as amarriage in Minnesota.”

The second proposed amendmentdeals with voter identification:“Shall the Minnesota Constitutionbe amended to require all voters topresent valid photo identification tovote and to require the state to pro-vide free identification to eligiblevoters, effective July 1, 2013?”

If this passes, the following wouldbe added to the Minnesota Consti-tution: Article VII, Section 1. “All vot-ers voting in person must presentvalid government-issued photo-graphic identification before receiv-ing a ballot. The state must issuephotographic identification at no

charge to an eligible voter who doesnot have a form of identificationmeeting the requirements of thissection. A voter unable to presentgovernment-issued photographicidentification must be permitted tosubmit a provisional ballot. A provi-sional ballot must only be counted ifthe voter certifies the provisionalballot in the manner provided bylaw. All voters, including those notvoting in person, must be subject tosubstantially equivalent identity andeligibility verification prior to a bal-lot being cast or counted.”

Voters will decide two proposed amendments to state’s Constitution

Prepared & paid for by the Re-Elect Owen Miller Committee, Bobbie Osterberg, Treasurer R001

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Re-ElectOwen Miller

Alexandria City Council • Ward 3Leadership

Experiencethrough

Service

FRIDAY | OCTOBER 12 | 2012 ECHO PRESS | e x t r a B3

�� ALEXANDRIA MAYOR (Two candidates vying for one position)

QPlease list your background andspecific qualifications for this po-

sition.

AI am a lifelong resident of Alexan-dria. I have been married 33 years

to Jan (Raap), have three grown chil-dren and three grandchildren. I am agraduate of Jefferson High School.My background is in construction asa carpenter, contractor and developer.I attend St. Mary’s parish and am amember of the Knights of Columbus.Other organizations I belong to in-clude Eagles Lodge, Elks Lodge,where I served as exalted ruler andon the board of trustees, VikingSportsmen, and I am a life member ofthe NRA and Minnesota DeerHunters. I was a member of theAlexandria Economic DevelopmentBoard until 2006. I know many of thefine people and businesses in thiscommunity and will work hard toserve all of their best interests.

QWhat do you view as the biggestchallenge facing Alexandria right

now and how would you deal with it?

AI believe the biggest hurdles Alexan-dria faces right now are similar to

what many other cities of the same sizeare facing: maintaining and updating ex-isting infrastructure, attracting newbusinesses and keeping our taxes at afair level so to encourage growth and de-velopment. I would like to hear frommembers of our local business commu-nity as to what they think is necessaryto promote our city and what the citycould do, or not do, to lend assistance.

I want our city council to make fairand informed decisions that will benefitall. Our city budget must remain in theblack but should not be made up only onthe backs of the homeowners whose as-sessed values have dropped and taxesincreased. City government needs to cutwhere necessary to the benefit of thevoting public. Cooperation with countyofficials would also be a high priority toavoid duplicating services and fees.

QWhat are your feelings about hav-ing an event center in the city?

How much involvement should the cityhave in such a project?

AAn event center is an issue that I amnot familiar with. I would like to

know how big, how much, where lo-cated, who is using it and who is runningit before making an opinion. However, Iam not in favor of paying a consultingfirm for its study of the issue. That iswhat your council was elected to do.

QIs Alexandria doing enough tokeep local property taxes low?

What are some specific cost savingideas you have for the budget?

AI’d love to see property taxes godown, but with the recent annexa-

tions and extension of the city’s infra-structure to those areas, I just don’t seeit happening. I hope, after examiningthe budget, we will be able to implementspecific cost-saving measures in some,if not all, of the city departments.

With the recent downturn in the econ-omy, it is only fair for the city to do itspart by tightening its belt as well. I ammost certainly not in favor of raising anymore taxes or fees. If anything, theyshould be lowered to make Alexandria amore attractive place to future businessgrowth and employment. Bottom line:we need to live within our means!

QConsidering the fact that themayor does not vote or make mo-

tions at council meetings, how will youaccomplish your goals? Describe yourstyle of leadership.

AI’ve been a boss, had employees,and know there are challenges. The

position of mayor puts you front andcenter as the point man for the city. Iwould strive for a spirit of cooperationon the council. The dialogue should beinformative and civil. All need to beheard.

My goals for the future are to promoteAlexandria to the max. We have a fan-tastic business park, so let’s go aftermore businesses. Our work force is sec-ond to none. Let’s keep them all busy.

We absolutely need to be in touch withthe commissioners to eliminate, or atthe very least, diminish wasteful dupli-cation of services. Sometimes, the traitof “gentle persuasion” may need to beemployed to accomplish this.

I will do my very best to serve the cit-izens and businesses in Alexandria.This community has been my home formore than 50 years, and I would be hon-ored and humbled to serve as its mayor.

MARK PEDERSONMayor


sition.

AI have been on the Alexandria CityCouncil for nine years. During that

time, I regularly attended two councilmeetings per month. I’ve served on nu-merous committees that relate to spe-cific city business and attended thosemeetings regularly as well. I have madesure that during the time I was on thecouncil, I served on, attended or was in-formed of what was taking place on allcommittees in the city. I have worked onspecial committees such as the policestation build, hiring of various firms forthat and the park building and keepingthese projects with local contractors asmuch as possible. I have served as themayor pro tempore for the last coupleyears and have attended all the work-shops the council has had on the budget.

It is my belief that it takes a lot of timeand effort to run city government and beapprised of the issues. There are toughdecisions to make and they have to bemade with an informed mind, looking atall sides of each issue and always keep-ing in mind what is best for the taxpay-ers.

Alexandria is a wonderful place tolive, work and retire. I have been herefor 32 years with my husband, Ron, andour four children, Matt, Tina, Katie andCasey. I did my graduate and under-graduate work in education at St. CloudState University, working primarily inspecial education. I left teaching about10 years ago and have been doing thebooks at our business, Carlson MusicCenter. I was born and raised on a farmand know the meaning of hard work andlong hours.

QWhat do you view as the biggestchallenge facing Alexandria right


AWith today’s economy, the biggestchallenge the city faces is to keep

taxes down and still provide qualityservices. This is something we mustwork at continually. Prioritizing needs isvery important and with tight budgets,we need to make sure that what we dois a need, not a want.

Our streets, for example, must betaken care of or they deteriorate to apoint that is not repairable with an over-lay and must have a total reconstruct.So for us to neglect them is not wise. It ishowever, a balancing act of how muchand when we work on them and otherprojects.

We have just finished our final annex-ation phase and must extend sewer andwater to those areas. While this is agood thing as it adds to our tax base anddecreases property taxes, there will besome long term costs.

Also, the recent expansion of theAlexandria Lakes Area Sanitary District(ALASD) has been a large increase toour budget. This is an obligation set by ajoint powers agreement that we musthonor.

We want our city to grow and prosperand need to watch vigilantly over andencourage controlled economic growthand development with good planning.Along with that, as Alexandria grows, sodo many other concerns and we need to

be adequately protected by police andfire.



AAgain, with the economy the way itis, I do not believe that now is the

time to look at building an event centerwith city money. We have or will bebuilding several buildings in the com-munity with bonding out on them (policestation, county public works building,county sheriff ’s office, county jail andnew high school). We need to pay themoff and not start other projects. We, astaxpayers, just cannot afford it.



AAs a council, we have worked hardat keeping taxes down and are con-

tinually looking for ways to do a betterjob and still provide vital services effec-tively. Currently, we are looking at crosstraining staff in various departments toimprove and streamline efficiencies.This could result in staff being availableand able to cross-over when needsarise.

As part of the budgetary process, as amember of the council, I support lookingat all aspects of expenditures and see-ing where cuts and cost savings can bemade. We will be meeting in work ses-sion to complete the budget for nextyear. For 2013, we have thus far reducedequipment and capital improvementbudgets as a way to reduce the overallbudget.

QConsidering the fact that themayor does not vote or make mo-

tions at council meetings, how will youaccomplish your goals? Describe yourstyle of leadership.

AThe mayor brings the voice of thecitizens to the Alexandria City Coun-

cil. The mayor sits on many committeesand provides input, keeping track ofwhat is going on in the community.

Although the mayor does not vote atcouncil meetings (except in the case of atie), he/she is responsible to bring inputto the council or to council members.

The mayor represents the total cityand may have a different perspectivethan each individual ward representa-tive and shares that with council mem-bers. The mayor runs all meetings andhas the power of veto for funding reso-lutions.

A good leader makes decisions basedon strength, experience and respect, noton titles, having the ability to convincepeople to work together in a cohesivemanner.

My leadership style would encouragecooperation and would support eachcouncil member and staff to use theirexpertise and experience to be morecompetent and productive for the city ofAlexandria.

As mayor or leader of the city, toughdecisions will have to be made. I knowthat I have the ability to make those de-cisions focusing on our goals and city vi-sion.

SARA CARLSONMayor

Election Day is Tuesday,November 6 and mostpolling places in DouglasCounty will be open from 7a.m. to 8 p.m.

The only exceptions arein Lund Township, wherepolls will open at 9 a.m. andSolem Township, whichhas a 10 a.m. opening.

Because of redistricting,there were significantchanges in the votingboundaries and precincts,especially in the city ofAlexandria. If you are notsure which Alexandria CityWard you are a resident of,contact the Alexandria cityoffices at (320) 763-6678 orthe Douglas County Audi-tor’s Office at (320) 762-3881 and they will assistyou.

The polling places are asfollows:

Alexandria City – Ward 1– Precinct 1 and 2 – LakeCommunity Church, 1751Co. Rd. 44 NW, Alexandria.

Alexandria City – Ward 2– Living Waters Church,1310 North Nokomis,Alexandria.

Alexandria City – Ward 3– New Life ChristianChurch, 1910 Hwy. 27 E.,Alexandria.

Alexandria City – Ward 4– Cornerstone Church, 2027th Ave. E. Alexandria.

Alexandria City – Ward 5– Precinct 1 and 2 –Alexandria City Hall, 704Broadway, Alexandria.

Alexandria Township –Good Shepherd LutheranChurch, 2702 Hwy 29 N.,Alexandria.

Belle River Township –St. Nicholas Church, 9473Co. Rd. 3 NE, Carlos.

Brandon City – BrandonCity Hall, 105 Holmes Ave.N., Brandon.

Brandon Township –

Brandon City Hall, 105Holmes Ave. N., Brandon.

Carlos City – CarlosTown Hall, 210 VictoriaAve., Carlos.

Carlos Township – Car-los Town Hall, 210 VictoriaAve., Carlos.

Evansville City – Evans-ville City Hall, 106 State St.,Evansville.

Evansville Township –Evansville City Hall, 106State St., Evansville.

Forada City – ForadaCity Fire Hall, 10991 TobysAve. SE, Alexandria.

Garfield City – GarfieldCity Hall, 116 Sanstead St.W., Garfield.

Holmes City Township –Holmes City Town Hall,11180 Tewes Trl. SW, Far-well.

Hudson Township –Forada City Hall, 10991Tobys Ave. SE, Alexandria.

Ida Township – Ida TownHall, 4700 Co. Rd. 6 NW,Garfield.

Kensington City – Kens-ington Community Center,19 Central Ave., Kensing-ton.

LaGrand Township – La-Grand Town Hall, 501Town Hall Rd. SW, Alexan-dria.

Lake Mary Township –Lake Mary Town Hall, 4791Co. Rd. 4 SW, Alexandria.

Leaf Valley Township –Leaf Valley Town Hall,15240 Co. Rd. 6 NW,Garfield.

Lund Township – TownHall in Melby, 17443 Lake-view Ave. NW, Evansville.

Millerville City –Millerville City Fire Hall,16560 Co. Rd. 7 NW, Bran-don.

Millerville Township –Millerville City Fire Hall,16560 Co. Rd. 7 NW, Bran-

don.Miltona City – Miltona

Community Center, 5590Co. Rd. 14, Miltona.

Miltona Township – Mil-tona Community Center5590 Co. Rd. 14, Miltona.

Moe Township – MoeTown Hall, 14188 Moe HallRd. SW, Garfield.

Nelson City – NelsonCity Hall, 120 N. Nelson St.,Nelson.

Orange Township – EdPollard Community Cen-ter, 18 E. Nokomis St., Os-akis.

Osakis City – Ed PollardCommunity Center, 18 E.Nokomis St., Osakis.

Osakis Township – EdPollard Community Cen-ter, 18 E. Nokomis St., Os-akis.

Solem Township – Kens-ington Runestone Park(Barn), 8755 Co. Rd. 103SW, Kensington.

Spruce Hill Township –Spruce Hill Town Hall,12055 Willow Dr. NE, Mil-tona.

Urness Township – Ur-ness Town Hall, 2160 Co.Rd. 1 SW, Evansville.

Here’s where to castyour ballot on Nov. 6

Dave Holmanfor

State House 11A

a

R001803935

Endorsed by

Paid for by the Holman Committee, 302 West 6th, Morris, MN 56267

Make a diff erence! Dave Holman is an experienced community leader,

retired educator and sportsman.

Dave Holman with Indy the Independence Party of Minne-sota’s mascot. The only party with an American mascot.

State House 12A

An Independent Voice in Saint Paul!

BEVVOTE

[email protected] 320-852-7335 facebook.com/gobevbalesDonations accepted 8170 E. Lake Carlos Dr., Carlos, MN 56319

Pd. by committee to elect Bales R001801724_102

For Up-to-DateElection

Coveragewatch

EchoPress.comReporting precinct results

as they roll in!


�� CITY COUNCIL - Ward 3


sition.

AI graduated from high school and at-tended Alexandria Technical Col-

lege. I worked in advanced sales for 10years and have extensive training insales and marketing. I was a volunteerfireman and EMT. I worked in the healthcare field in a nursing home.

I am currently self-employed andhave been for the past 25 years in boththe trucking and construction industry.I presently own rental and investmentproperties in Alexandria.

Being a resident of Alexandria whopays taxes here, shops here and owns abusiness and property qualifies me forthis position.

QWhat would you view as thebiggest challenge facing Alexan-

dria right now and how would you dealwith it?

AThe budget is a prime concern as allexpenditures have to be offset with

revenue. If there isn’t enough revenueprojected, then it results in an increasein levy. Enough is enough. When doesthe spending stop? I am very concernedabout the impact of all the current andimpending development in the south-west corner of Ward 3: the new highschool, a large apartment complex andan impending HUD development in-cluding Knute Nelson’s Grand Arbor.There will be a host of public safety is-sues that will need to be addressed dur-ing the construction phase and after thecompletion of these projects. This chal-lenge will need the full attention of theentire city council and the emergencymanagement system.

We need new ideas and new conceptsto evaluate the issues currently facingthe city council, and having new peopleinvolved will stimulate conversation andthinking.



AThe city is participating financiallyin a feasibility study to determine

the advantages and disadvantages of anevent center. I don’t think the city shouldbe spending taxpayer dollars on thisparticular project at this time. Any stud-ies probably should be done by privatebusiness interests and private businessdollars. When the results of the feasibil-ity study are completed, the findings ofthis study should be presented to thecity council.



ANo. At this time, the city of Alexan-dria is on a “spend and tax” mode.

They spend and we get taxed. I do nothave access to all of the informationneeded to make an informed opinionabout what I would do to cut the budget.However, I would suggest we cut backwherever feasible so we can do a com-prehensive study to evaluate each de-partment to show us where thestrengths and weaknesses of these de-partments lie and then work with eachdepartment head to streamline and de-velop a more cost-effective city govern-ment.

QIs Alexandria drawing enoughhigh-paying jobs to the area? What

are your ideas for improvement?

AWe have a great manufacturingbase, an expanding medical com-

munity, a strong service industry, afarming industry, but we are letting ourconstruction industry down. I feel weshould evaluate the need to get a citypermit two miles outside the city limits,in addition to a county permit. By elimi-nating the two-mile limit permit, thecounty will take care of their permit is-sues outside of the city limits. By ad-justing permit fees within the city, wecan get our local contractors and theiremployees back to work in building newand remodeling existing homes with thecity limits. As the city ordinance nowreads, it will cost up to $8,000 in permitsto build a new house within the city lim-its.

WILLIAM STARKWARD 3

Being Proactive rather than reactive...actually manage the county business. When the options you are given aren’t what you want, YOU must as a Commissioner engage in fi nding the alternative.

Responsible use of tax dollars...not save a dime now to spend dollars later such as...build a new jail/LEC and courts for $32M or spend $33+M for new public works building that wasn’t needed, rehab a very old building with ongoing problems, build a jail and still need court space. Best use of tax dollars??? I think not!

Create opportunities to engage in discussions, should not embarrass Dept. Heads with surprise items on the agenda, is that professional conduct?

Experienced Leadership... to protect the integrity of Douglas County!

�

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Questions, comments or concerns Contact Bonnie at 834-3287or [email protected]

Prepared and paid for by Huettl Election Committee 1728 Golden Dr. SW, Alexandria, MN R001802842_102

A Vote For BonnieIs A vote For:

Paid for by Skogen for Senate, John Lindlief, treasurerR001803246-102

Dan SkogenDan Skogenfor State Senatefor State Senate

NOV. 6TH

Dan Skogen is one of us -

a life-long resident of West Central Minnesota.

For local control, lower property taxes, education and long-term care funding - VOTE DAN SKOGEN.

4 Years in the Minnesota Senate10 Years on Board of Directors at Todd-Wadena Electric Co-op

25 Years as Radio Announcer in Wadena

ENDORSED BY:• Minnesota Chamber Leadership Fund• MN Farm Bureau Political Action Committee• NFIB Minnesota (National Federation of Independent Business)• MCCL (MN Citizens Concerned for Life) State PAC• NRA (National Rifl e Assn.)

AWARDED:• Guardian of Small Business Award by NFIB (National Federation of Independent Business)• Farm & Rural Legislative Award by MN Farmers Union• Legislator of the Year by MN Milk Producers Assn.

Keep common sense, integrity & experience working for you in St. Paul

Paid for by the Anderson Campaign Committee, Mark Thompson, Treasurer, P.O. Box 490, Starbuck, MN 56381

R001806203

Paid for by Dan Olson on his own behalf.R001800481-102

Re-Elect Dan Olsonfor District 5

CommissionerI would like to continue serving the

people of District 5 and Douglas County as your commissioner.


sition.

AMy leadership experience is the re-sult of service to my community

through serving as the chair, presidentor charter president of organizations in-cluding Jaycees, Boy Scouts of America,church, Fellowship of Christian Ath-letes, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon-Dou-glas County-Alexandria, Glacial RidgeEstate and Financial Planning Counciland Association of Life Underwriters,Veterans Administration Clinic Dedica-tion Ceremony and Commander ofAmerican Legion Post 87.

As the owner/president of two corpo-rations, a limited liability company, self-employed insurance agent for 48 yearsand city council member, I have beengiven the opportunity to serve on sev-eral state boards, including Coalition ofGreater Minnesota Cities and West Cen-tral Initiative. I was elected to serve onthe advisory council to one of the na-tion’s largest insurance companies.

These positions have required theability to make the tough decisions, gen-erate creative thoughts and solutionsthrough cooperative efforts.

My wife Audrey and I have been mar-ried for 49 years, and we have three chil-dren and five grandchildren.

What we do today determines whatthe future holds for the next genera-tions.



AAlexandria is fortunate to be a citygrowing and attracting new and ex-

panding businesses, but this also chal-lenges us to rely on our comprehensiveplan as a guideline for development. Wehave been reviewing the plan to see ifmodifications are necessary and mustcontinue to monitor it in relation to fu-ture growth, infrastructure, road main-tenance and community services, allwhile keeping a reasonable tax levy.

We also need to consider local trans-portation needs along with regional andstate transportation services to andfrom Alexandria. Is light rail a possiblemeans of connecting the Twin Citiesand/or Fargo to Alexandria? Is a re-gional airport a viable consideration?We address and solve many of the situa-tions by listening to the thoughts andconcerns of our residents, includingthose of our senior citizens.



AThe question of an event center isthe reason a feasibility study has

been authorized to determine whetheror not one should be even considered.We would never know whether or not itwould be a benefit to our communitywithout the study.



AAlexandria is not replacing park andstreet employees who have left or

retired. The council is continuing to re-work the budget in efforts to reduce thelevy without any further detriment tocommunity services. The move to hirean engineer/public works director willreduce much of the contracted engi-neering costs on city projects. Job de-scriptions are being reworded to moreefficiently utilize our work force benefitto the city.

I serve on the board for the Coalitionof Greater Minnesota Cities, whichworks with legislators on maintaininglocal government aid as a way of pro-viding for funding infrastructure needsand as a result, keeps property taxesfrom skyrocketing.



AAgain, Alexandria is fortunate to at-tract new and expanding businesses

through the efforts of the AlexandriaEconomic Development Commission.The use of tax increment financing(TIF) by the city requires the paymentof a livable wage. Since the economiccommission was formed, it has alsohelped neighboring communities inDouglas County, which makes availablemore opportunities for employment andbetter wages.

There is an old saying: “As Alexandriagoes, so goes the county.” This is truesince Alexandria is the major hub forthe county, regional medical services,retail and cultural arts. As we continueto encourage development as a regionalcenter, we will see growth in these serv-ices. This growth may best be accom-plished by a countywide financiallysupported economic development com-mission utilizing the current board. As amember of your city council, I will con-tinue to work for responsible develop-ment of our community.

OWEN MILLERWARD 3 (Incumbent)



sition.

ALoiann and I have been living herealmost 30 years. I have been serving

on the city council for the past 16 years,representing the citizens of Alexandria.We are members of Shalom LutheranChurch, involved in many local servicegroups. I believe in our community andworking for all the people in Alexandra.



ABudget is a big challenge. To providemore and to spend less is what

everyone needs, but the reality is wehave to pay our obligations. The in-creases that you see this year are fromthe items we need to pay and cutting de-partments’ expenses and still provide agreat service to the people of Alexan-dria.



AThe event center is a study and alook at what this community’s needs

are.Do we need one? Yes. I think the city

should be involved with it, as it can bringmore to the RCC arena we have.



AThe council is doing the right thingby keeping the budget in line with a

small increase in the levy. Saving in thebudget is to be working smarter with thestaff, knowledge and equipment wehave. Combining departments andequipment is a start to be smarter andcost effective.



AWe have great business in the areato provide jobs and to be able to sup-

port our area. To draw more in growthis to promote the great city of Alexan-dria and Douglas County.

ELROY FRANKWARD 5 (Incumbent)


sition.

AI am a 49-year-old native of Min-nesota. My wife Peggy and I have

been married for 29 years and havelived in Alexandria for the past 18 years.We have four grown children and 11grandchildren. I have been employed asthe sales manager at KEYL/KXDLRadio for the past 13 years.

My entire adult life has been spent insales and management. With roughly 30years of sales experience dealing pri-marily with business customers, I havelearned that the most important qualitya person can have is the ability to listento the wants and needs of the peoplethey are dealing with or representing.city council members need to constantlyremind themselves that they are not onthe council to serve their own interestsor agendas, but rather to serve theneeds and interests of the people whoreside in, or own businesses in, thewards they represent.

My knowledge of our local businesscommunity along with the communica-tion skills I have worked to develop overthe years are additional qualifications Ihope to bring to this position. I will workhard to represent first and foremost theneeds and interests of the people ofWard 5.



AThe biggest challenge we face is get-ting the city’s spending under con-

trol. It seems every time we pick up thepaper or listen to the radio, the city isstarting or proposing another project. Iunderstand that in a city the size ofAlexandria there is a level of new con-struction, renovation, remodeling,equipment purchases and addition ofservices that are inherently necessary.However, this must be balanced with afiscal responsibility to the citizens of thiscommunity because they are the onesultimately paying the bills.

Expenditures need to be evaluatednot on a “want” but rather a “need”basis. The council needs to start beingmore creative by seeking ways to shareservices with the county to reduce costs,contracting services that can be per-formed more cost effectively than thecity can on its own, and moving projectsand purchases into the “maybe whenthe economy rebounds” or “when it canbe done without adding additional taxburden” categories.

I urge the residents of this communityto become more involved. Attend citycouncil meetings when possible, reachout to your ward representatives, andmake your voices heard. Council mem-bers are elected to serve the wishes ofthe people. It’s time to start holdingthem accountable.



AI will not commit to a position on thequestion of an event center until I

have had an opportunity to completelyreview the findings and recommenda-tions of the study that the city councilhas already approved commissioning. Iwill base my opinion on that informationalong with input from the residents andbusiness owners of Ward 5.

It’s the responsibility of the councilmembers to represent the wishes of thepeople of their wards, not their own per-sonal agendas.

I will however say that I go into thisissue with great caution. Current eco-nomic conditions call for prudence inour spending. I cannot and will not sup-port such a project unless it can demon-strate an immediate need and can bedone in a fiscally responsible manner.This is not a time to mortgage our city’sfuture on projects that are unnecessary,unneeded and sometimes unwanted bythe people of this community, which Ibelieve has happened far too oftenunder our current council members’watch.



AThe city council is not doing enoughto keep property taxes down. Our

city administrator recently stated thatalthough there was going to be a budgetincrease for 2013, that due to annexa-tion, the property taxes for individualproperty owners would actually godown. This was only a partial truth.

I do not believe he took into consider-ation the levy increase that the Alexan-dria HRA was granted by the citycouncil. He also did not factor in the in-sinuated property tax increase that wascontained in a recent letter fromAlexandria Lake Area Sanitary District.Recent state property tax increases, theschool levy, HRA levy increases, a 3.8percent increase in the 2013 city budgetand the threat of further increasedtaxes by ALASD guarantee propertytaxes will increase dramatically.

The city administrator is hardly com-forting. A lot of people of this communityare struggling to pay their bills and keeptheir homes. Many haven’t seen a payraise in several years. So the city coun-cil considering non-essential projects,giving every employee of the city a 3 per-cent pay increase for next year, givingthemselves a 3 percent raise for 2013and another 3 percent for 2014, is evi-dence they are not doing everythingpossible to keep property taxes down.



AI’ve learned over the years that be-fore we go looking for more in life we

need to make sure we’re doing the bestpossible job taking care of what we al-ready have. Too often the focus is onwhat we desire and not enough on whatwe already have.

The more important question here isnot what we can do to bring in more jobsand businesses, but what are we doingto take care of the businesses that arealready the lifeblood of Alexandria?

Unnecessary property taxes and as-sessments frustrate business ownersand may result in them looking else-where. Being involved in sales for over30 years, I’ve learned it’s easier andmore beneficial to keep the accountsyou have than constantly seek new onesto replace them.

Focusing on doing the best possiblejob we can to take care of the businessesalready in this community will result ingrowth as a bi-product, without losingthe “place we want to live” atmospherethat my wife and I fell in love with whenwe moved here 18 years ago. Growth isa good thing, but not at the cost of whatwe already have.

TODD JENSENWARD 5

JAY McNAMARYour candidate for

MN House District 12A

Approved by Jay McNamar. Paid for by the McNamar for House Committee.

R001

8040

59

• Jay taught and coached at West Central Area schools for 36 years

• Jay was a volunteer Elbow Lake firefighter for 20 years

• Jay is an EMT for Prairie Ridge Hospital

• Jay is currently the Mayor of Elbow Lake

“Working together to get things done, along with creative problem solving and commitment, are some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through these life experiences. I hope to encourage and continue this type of cooperation in returning our state to economic stability and growth if elected to represent the good people in District 12A.”

~ Jay McNamar, DFL Candidate

Re-Elect

Paul C. Anderson

for

Douglas County

Commissioner

...keep the voice of common sense on the board

...bring years of needed experience to the board...work toward reducing real estate taxes

...reduce size of government...implement long range planning

Paid for by Paul C. Anderson on his own behalf. R001

7997

13

“This is NOT the time for change. With the programs that we are working hard to implement/maintain, EXPERIENCE is a

necessity. I believe strongly in the work that I have done and I sincerely wish to continue to serve this country. I humbly ask for your

vote in the general election on November 6, 2012”

Please feel free to contact me anytime. I would love to share my history, ideas and beliefs with you.

274 County Road 44 [email protected]

320.763.3440

Editor’s note: The following in-formation was provided throughthe Douglas County Auditor’s web-site.

Persons wishing to vote are re-quired by state law to be registered.

Are you a registered voter?You can check on your voter regis-

tration status at the Minnesota Of-fice of the Secretary of State website: www.sos.state.mn.us. Click onthe Elections/Voting tab click on“Registering to Vote?” in the boxunder Voter Information.

If you are not already registered,you may register at the polls onElection Day.

To be eligible to vote, a personmust:

• Be at least 18 years old on elec-tion day.

• Be a citizen of the United States.• Have resided in Minnesota for 20

days immediately preceding elec-tion day.

• Maintain a residence at the ad-dress given on the registration form.

• Not under court-orderedguardianship in which the courtorder revokes the right to vote.

• Not found by a court to be legallyincompetent to vote.

• Have the right to vote because,if convicted of a felony, the felonysentence has expired (been com-pleted) or have been dischargedfrom their sentence.

REGISTERING ON ELECTION DAYIf you are not registered to vote or

need to update your registration in-formation, you may do so at yourlocal polling location on ElectionDay.

However, you are required to pro-vide proof of residence when regis-tering on Election Day.

To register at your polling place,you must have one of the followingwith your current name and addressin the precinct to verify your resi-dence:

• A valid Minnesota driver’s li-cense, learner’s permit, MinnesotaID card, or receipt for any of these.

• A valid student ID card includ-ing your photo, if your college hasprovided a student housing list toelection officials.

• A Tribal ID card that containsyour picture and signature.

• A valid registration in the sameprecinct under a different name oraddress.

• A notice of late registration sentto you by your county auditor or cityclerk.

• A voter registered in the sameprecinct as you who can confirmyour address with a signed oath.

• An employee of the residentialfacility where you live who can con-firm your address with a signedoath.

Alternatively, you may provideboth 1) a photo ID from the list belowand 2) a current bill with your cur-rent name and address in theprecinct.

Acceptable photo IDs: Minnesotadriver’s license; Minnesota ID card;U.S. passport, U.S. military ID card;tribal ID card; or a Minnesota uni-versity, college or technical collegeID card.

Additional information can befound at the Minnesota Secretary ofState website atwww.sos.state.mn.us.

Voting: Are you registered?

�� CITY COUNCIL - Ward 5


�� STATE REPRESENTATIVE

QPlease list yourbackground and

specific qualificationsfor this position.

AMy name is Bob Cun-niff, and I am a re-

tired elementary teacherand coach of 35 years inthe Alexandria schoolsystem. I am a 1976 grad-uate of the University ofMinnesota. I have alsoworked at KXRA as asports broadcaster. Ihave been a 4H and FCAvolunteer, along withbeing a Sunday schoolteacher and confirmationmentor.

I have been married 33years to Darice, whoteaches kindergarten. Iguess you could call us aneducation family. We trulyvalue education.

We have three grownchildren who all grew upin this area: Chanda,Kevin, Bryce and onegrandchild, Keegan. Wewere married here,worked here, and raisedour family in this greatarea. We love the moralvalues, work ethic, the re-spect and generosity ofthis area.

I have never been in-volved in politics beforebut have always been in-terested in issues andhow Minnesota govern-ment works. I look for-ward to the challenges ofthe job of being a publicservant.

QThe public is tired ofthe partisan politics

that often bog down thework of the Legislature.Specifically, how will youwork with legislatorsfrom the other politicalparty to get things done?

AWe need a legislatorwho will work for all

people and that includesthe middle class, a per-son who will work acrossthe aisle toward new so-lutions and have respectfor the office.

For government towork effectively, compro-mise has to happen. It isnot a sign of weakness. Ifwe want things to work,we need people who arethoughtful, creative, con-siderate and able to seethe big picture.

We need politicianswho are willing to look atevidence and statistics,and use that data to de-cide how to vote on anissue.

Telling the truth andgetting the facts correctis important. We need tobe good listeners and towork together and beconsiderate of everybodyin our district, not just thepeople who support us.

People don’t want gov-ernment shutdowns. It isimportant to find com-mon ground and buildfrom that so we can dothe people’s business ofrunning our state. That iswhat people expect fromtheir elected officials.

QMany people sawsignificant increases

in property taxes thisyear. If elected, what willyou do to lower the prop-erty taxes for aver-age/middle class homeowners?

AMy opponent elimi-nated the Homestead

Credit and replaced itwith the Homestead Mar-ket Value Exclusion. Thisreplacement increasedproperty taxes on homes,farms and businesses by$291 million. It con-tributed to business taxincreases of more than 7percent in our cities andfarm tax increases ofmore than 10 percent.Property taxes increasedthree times more inGreater Minnesota thanin the Twin Cities. Localgovernment aid (LGA) isproperty tax relief forcities paid by the state.

State funding for LGAhas been cut 25 percentover the last 10 years andhas remained flat since2010. Eliminating or re-ducing LGA will weakenregional centers andsmall cities. Taxes will goup and services will godown, encouraging peo-ple and businesses toleave Greater Minnesotafor other states or theTwin Cities metro area.

The Legislature hasused property tax reliefprograms to help balancethe state budget, whichhas resulted in muchhigher property taxes, es-pecially for Greater Min-nesota. We need to stopbalancing the statebudget with property taxincreases. RestoringLGA cuts would benefitour area and keep ourproperty taxes down.

QIs the state takingthe right approach

to battling aquatic inva-sive species, such aszebra mussels? Whatmore can be done?

AThe Legislature hasmade protecting our

waterways from aquaticinvasive species (AIS) apriority. They have tough-ened AIS penalties, se-cured additional fundingfor enhanced enforce-ment of existing laws,and found new funding inthe Legacy Bill for Asiancarp barriers on the Mis-sissippi River and a newinvasive species researchinstitute at the Universityof Minnesota.

The new laws are good,and I agree with what theLegislature has done. Byeducating the public, en-forcing new laws, and re-search, we can slow downthe AIS problem.

Still, there is no silverbullet to solve this prob-lem. The boats cominginto the Great Lakeshave caused many of ourAIS problems over theyears, including zebramussels. There are newlaws going into effect thatwill help that problem.

QWhat priority willyou give to energy

efficiency and renew-able energies? What en-ergy future do youenvision for upcominggenerations in Min-nesota?

AThe Renewable En-ergy Standard (RES),

which was passed in 2007,mandates 25 percent re-newable generation by2025 for all Minnesotaelectric utilities. This en-courages our utilities towork toward renewableenergy. Some want to bemore aggressive andraise the percent of re-newable on the utilities.Others want to weakenthe mandate. At this time,I would leave it as is torun its course. I am tak-ing a balanced approach.It can be reevaluated at alater time.

Some of the best op-tions for the future for re-newable energy are wind,hydro, biomass and solar.I don’t believe we shouldhave a certain percent-age of the mandate in-clude a certain type ofrenewable. We alsoshould do as much aspossible to protect the en-vironment, but we needto make sure we don’t puttoo much pressure on theconsumer and business.

Minnesota is home toabundant renewable en-ergy sources that arebeneficial to the environ-ment and have the poten-tial to create good payingjobs that cannot be out-sourced. Minnesota’sclean energy economy isa growing segment of theprivate sector economy.

BOB CUNNIFF, DFLDistrict 8B

QPlease list your backgroundand specific qualifications for

this position.

AMy name is Scott Dutcher. Mywife Tessa and I live in Brandon

with our two boys, Jackson andThomas. I am running for the Min-nesota Legislature because I wantto work to get our economy back onthe right track.

I am the owner of a successfulsmall business, so I know what itmeans to hire employees, meet apayroll, pay the rent, and still paythe mortgage and ensure food is onthe table at the end of the day.

As a member of the Brandon CityCouncil, I have established a strongrecord of lowering taxes and mak-ing smart spending decisions forthe benefit of our citizens.

If I am elected, I will work tire-lessly to secure the future for West-ern Minnesota’s small businessesso that they can succeed and createnew jobs. Too often, our best andbrightest in Western Minnesota aredrawn across the border to NorthDakota and South Dakota or to theTwin Cities. To reverse that trend,we need to do better at creatinggood-paying jobs right here inWestern Minnesota.

QThe public is tired of the par-tisan politics that often bog

down the work of the Legislature.Specifically, how will you workwith legislators from the other po-litical party to get things done?

AThe partisanship in Washing-ton, D.C. and in St. Paul has

truly gotten out of hand. It is notjust that our elected officials arehaving a tough time finding com-mon ground, they can’t seem to bein the same room together!

That’s ridiculous. Minnesotaneeds responsible, mature leaderswho are willing and eager to reachacross the aisle. We need to getback to a time when elected offi-cials put aside their partisan affilia-tion and did what was best for thestate of Minnesota.

QMany people saw significantincreases in property taxes

this year. If elected, what will youdo to lower the property taxes foraverage/middle class home own-ers?

AAs a member of the BrandonCity Council, I have established

a strong track record of loweringproperty taxes. In 2011, I pushedfor, and won, a 5 percent reductionto our city’s tax levy. That was ahuge win for our citizens.

Going forward, the best way toreduce the property tax burden inWestern Minnesota is to refocusthe Local Government Aid (LGA)program on Minnesota’s smallcities. LGA is a $400 million pro-gram designed to support our smallcities so that we may provide es-sential services like police and fireprotection. Unfortunately, eventhough LGA is meant for our smallcities, more than $100 million is di-verted every year to Minneapolisand St. Paul. By refocusing thosefunds on Minnesota’s small cities,we could dramatically increase thesupport for our cities withoutadding any new costs to the stategovernment.

If elected, I would fight for West-ern Minnesota’s rural communitiesand our right to receive a largershare of LGA funds.

QIs the state taking the rightapproach to battling aquatic

invasive species, such as zebramussels? What more can bedone?

AI am not a biologist, so I do notthink it would be responsible for

me to speculate on the best answerto this difficult problem.

What I do want to explain is howI would approach this problem. Asa legislator, one is often confrontedwith difficult and important prob-lems outside of his or her field of ex-pertise. So a person’sdecision-making process and judg-ment are important.

In confronting an issue likeaquatic invasive species, my firststep would be to assess the natureof the problem. I would ask ques-tions like: What have other statesdone to slow the spread of zebramussels? Was it effective? Howlong did those steps delay theirspread? What would be the likelyeffect of zebra mussels on impor-tant industries like tourism? Whatare the potential costs related tothe range of options available?

I would also consult with expertsboth in the biological field and inany potentially affected industries.In doing so, I would assess both therelevance of the expert’s experi-ence as well as his or her potentialbias.

In the end, I would make a de-cision that I believed best for thepeople of Minnesota.

QWhat priority will you giveto energy efficiency and re-

newable energies? What energyfuture do you envision for upcom-ing generations in Minnesota?

AOne of the dominant themes ofthe 21st century will be our na-

tion’s ability (or inability) to safelysecure our energy future. As westand today, we are at a crucialtransition point in the history of en-ergy. Whereas the 20th century wasdefined by the acquisition and ex-ploitation of the world’s oil re-serves, our next 100 years will focuson technological advancements innatural gas, nuclear, geothermal,biofuels, wind, solar, and even tidalenergy.

Before exploring the future forthese varied energy sources, wemust first understand just how cen-tral energy is to our society. Fromthe moment we wake up, relativelyinexpensive energy enriches ourlives from our warm showers, toour electric coffee makers, to thegas in our cars.

To secure our nation’s energy fu-ture, we must take an all-of-the-above approach to developing ourresources. We must continue to ex-plore new sources of oil while tak-ing steps to prevent environmentaldisasters like the Deepwater Hori-zon leak. We must continue to makeprogress developing our nation’stremendous natural gas resourcesand consider approving new nu-clear power plants in locations thatare safe from earthquakes,tsunamis, and similar events. Wemust continue to encourageprogress in developing renewableenergies to the point where theymay be able to compete againstmore traditional energy sources.

In all, there is much work to bedone, but our energy future shouldbe bright. With wise decisions madeat the top, the days of $4 per gallongasoline could soon be a thing ofthe past.

SCOTT DUTCHER, RDistrict 12A


this position.

AI am a mother of three beautifulchildren who grew up on a

small hobby farm. Previous tobeing elected, I operated a licensedchildcare business out of my home.I balance my family budget andtruly know what it’s like to struggleto make ends meet.

We live in the greatest country onthis earth and our Constitutionguarantees us that we will all havethe same opportunity. But I fearwith the over-spending and over-regulation that is occurring in St.Paul by politicians from both sides,my children, your grandchildren,and great-grandchildren will nothave the same chances as past gen-erations have had to achieve theirwildest dreams.

QThe public is tired of the par-tisan politics that often bog

down the work of the Legislature.Specifically, how will you workwith legislators from the other po-litical party to get things done?

AIn my two years as your statelegislator, I fought for property

tax relief, the rights of the unborn,and helped turn a $5 billion deficitinto a $1 billion surplus, without jobkilling tax increases. When I tookoffice, unemployment was at 8.05percent, and as of August, it’s at4.65 percent for Douglas/Otter Tailcounties.

It is this type of leadership thatcan only be accomplished when wework across party lines in order toget things done. I will continue towork with Democrats, Independ-ents, and Republicans to ensurethat small business will be able toexpand and create more jobs in ourcommunities. When small busi-nesses succeed, we all succeed.

There is not one Democrat run-ning for re-election that has cast ahigher percentage of bipartisan rollcall votes than myself.


this year. If elected, what will youdo to lower the property taxes foraverage/middle class home own-ers?

AI voted to put a freeze on localproperty taxes and voted for

property tax relief for local home-owners and small businesses.(Homeowners, if you haven’t filedfor your property tax refund, youshould.)

If our state is going to be compet-itive going forward, we need to lookat all options of tax relief in order tocreate a better economic climatefor businesses. We will need to freeup cash flow for small businessesand provide more incentives forstart-up companies looking to com-pete in our global economy.



AOur state needs to continue tofocus on eliminating aquatic in-

vasive species. We can work to em-power enforcement officials andimprove knowledge on this impor-tant issue so that Minnesotans cancontinue to enjoy one of our great-est attractions: our beautiful lakes.

QWhat priority will you give toenergy efficiency and renew-

able energies? What energy fu-ture do you envision for upcominggenerations in Minnesota?

AWe should always encourageenergy efficiencies. As long as

renewable energy is a product ofthe private sector, and if the marketdemands it, then I am all for it. Butwhen the government mandatesour energy companies to innovateand diversify when the marketdoesn’t have a need for it, we runinto problems. One problem ishigher energy costs to the con-sumer and another is crony capi-talism.

We have exciting renewable tech-nology on the horizon, such as nu-clear energy. As a mother of threechildren, I know first-hand how spi-raling energy costs affect the fam-ily budget. Nuclear energy is cleanand safe and would be a cost-effec-tive energy source as long as thegovernment stays out of the way.

MARY FRANSON, RDistrict 8B (Incumbent)


�� STATE REPRESENTATIVE continued


sition.

AI am a retired educator that haslived in the district for more than 50

years. I’ve been active politically formost of that time, even being a countychairman. At that time, I pointed outthat a bird with only wing cannot fly. Thesame is true of political parties.

I am the son of Swedish parents, so Iam a first-generation American, edu-cated in our American public school sys-tem, graduated from Bemidji with bothgraduate and under-graduate degrees.Most of my career was with the Morrispublic schools, where my wife and Iraised our family.

QThe public is tired of the partisanpolitics that often bog down the

work of the Legislature. Specifically,how will you work with legislatorsfrom the other political party to getthings done?

AI am the endorsed candidate of theIndependence Party. The party is in-

dependent, not a compromise betweenthe other parties. We have our ownagendas, but do not walk in lock-step.The candidate can be more of an indi-vidual.

All parties need to get out of the lock-step mentality.

The voters in House District 12A haveanother choice this year, rather than thestandard two. Remember, if you vote thesame way you did in the past, you willget the same results in the present.

QMany people saw significant in-creases in property taxes this year.

If elected, what will you do to lower theproperty taxes for average/middleclass home owners?

AYes, taxes have gone upwards. Theproblems are in part due to the na-

tional economy, population increase, in-crease in state mandates and protectionof the environment. I will try to keep allincreases reasonable and moderate, ifneeded.

QIs the state taking the right ap-proach to battling aquatic invasive

species, such as zebra mussels? Whatmore can be done?

AYes, it will be costly. Prevention andeducation are the keys. New rules

and regulations have to be made as tonot be a hindrance to property ownersand sportsmen. This will be a difficultissue.

QWhat priority will you give to en-ergy efficiency and renewable en-

ergies? What energy future do youenvision for upcoming generations inMinnesota?

AThis is a very high priority of mine.Energy, in the past, wasted fuels. We

need to educate people on how to useour natural resources wisely, includingin farming, forestry, water, etc.

The future can have less wastethrough more efficiency, and there isalso a great need for education of theupcoming generations.

DAVE HOLMAN, IndependenceDistrict 12A

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sition.

AI graduated from Villard HighSchool and then received a Bachelor

of Arts in history from the University ofMinnesota at Morris. My career hasbeen in manufacturing managementand executive management.

I retired in 2009 after 34 years at Dou-glas Machine, where I achieved the po-sition of vice president over twobusiness units. For the last five years, Iwas director of Douglas Metal Finish-ing, where we completed a joint venturewith Alexandria Extrusion, building andoperating the largest aluminum anodiz-ing line in Greater Minnesota.

My years of problem solving, consen-sus building, analytical thinking andsuccessful results give me a uniquebackground to work in the Legislature.

I was a National Ski Patrol memberfor 20 years, a volunteer football coachat Osakis and Villard, a reserve policeofficer in Osakis, and my wife and Iraised quarter horses for 40-plus years.



AFor opposite sides to reach a con-sensus, you must find the common

ground and expand on it. Working withthe negatives will get you nowhere. Peo-ple must be open to all options and thennarrow them down to one final idea.

This is the hardest task in moving aproject forward because you must startwith different solutions or it will not be astrong result. Differences make usstrong, but only if they can be moldedinto one strong operating plan for thestate.

I have the experience and willingnessto reach the results that will make Min-nesota stronger and a leader again.



AThe last-minute deal to remove thehomestead credit was wrong and

must be reversed. Property taxes havesurpassed income tax as the state’snumber-one source of revenue. Ruralbusinesses and property owners will seemuch higher property taxes than in themetro areas.

We need to start with a blank sheet ofpaper and build a new property tax sys-tem that is fair and is not an abnormalburden on any group.



AI am not a marine biologist or an en-vironmental specialist. It just seems

to me that the ideas we have so far arevery expensive and somewhat impracti-cal. We must rely on our specialists tocome up with ways to combat this prob-lem and give them the resourcing thatthey need to accomplish their goals.This is too important of an issue for Min-nesota to ignore or not give our all tosolve.



AAfter speaking to persons in the fieldof energy, it seems to me that we

have two different types of providers inMinnesota, but we treat them the same.

The first is the for-profit company,which has a main goal of providing profitfor its stockholders.

The second is the non-profit, cooper-ative company, which has a main goal ofproviding energy to its customers andmembers at the lowest possible price.Many of the energy goals set forth bythe state are putting an undue financialburden on the cooperatives. All compa-nies have reached their 2012 goals andare now looking to meet their 2025 tar-gets in renewable energy.

In the future, we must look to all en-ergy sources and keep improving thetechnologies, and we must not cease ourefforts in energy conservation.

RICK ROSENFIELD, DFLDistrict 12B


sition.

AI have lived my entire life in WesternMinnesota; therefore, I’m aware of

our communities and their unique situ-ations. I have been a teacher at WestCentral Area Schools for 36 years plustwo years at Waubun High SchoolSchool, which has given me insight intothe structure, curriculum, financing,etc. of our schools.

For the past 33 years, I have been in-volved in the EMS system as a volunteerfirefighter and EMT, both of which havegiven me valuable knowledge of how ourcommunities are protected.

Finally, the past four years, I’veserved as mayor of Elbow Lake, whichhas provided me knowledge and experi-ence concerning taxation, funding,needs, etc. of our rural Minnesota cities.I feel I’m well suited for the position ofstate representative.



AThere is no guarantee that I will besuccessful working with members of

either party. However, I am willing touse a common ground, common senseapproach to problem solving, which Ihave used all my life as a teacher, coachand mayor.

I would always be willing to meet, ex-change ideas, listen and negotiate to getsomething done with fellow legislators.My motto for the past four years asmayor has been: “It’s amazing what canbe accomplished when it doesn’t matterwho gets the credit.”



AI have been fighting high propertytaxes the past four years as mayor.

My city has lowered property taxes asmall amount in the face of difficult eco-nomic times and drastic cuts in LocalGovernment Aid (LGA). My solutions tolowering property taxes would be to firstreinstate the Homestead Credit andsecondly to gradually increase LGA tocities back to the 2008 level. With an in-crease in LGA, cities could lower theirlevies, thus reducing property taxes.



AThe laws and regulations are fine,but enforcement and monitoring are

what is needed to help prevent thespread of invasive species in our lakes,rivers and streams. The cost could behigh, but if all our bodies of water be-come contaminated, what would thatcost? We could limit access areas to wa-ters designated as infested waters tomake it easier to monitor water craftthat could possibly spread an invasivespecies.



AA high priority should be given to allrenewable energy production. With

a combination of wind, solar and biofu-els, we can help reduce our reliance onforeign oils, create jobs, and providemarkets for our agricultural products.In conjunction with renewable energyand the creation of more fuel efficientcars, homes and electrical appliances,we could conceivably become an energyself-reliant state and nation.

Our future depends on us to supportenergy conservation and renewable fuelproduction to be able to escape the holdforeign nations have on our economy.

JAY McNAMAR, DFLDistrict 12A


sition.

A I am a graduate of the University ofMinnesota with a degree in teaching

and coaching. After college, I returnedhome and joined our family farming op-eration and have been actively farmingfor nearly 40 years. Also during thattime, I have served on the school boardat Starbuck, I was a township officer formore than 20 years, and I was elected tothe Pope County Board of Commission-ers in 2006. Two years later, when thethen- current representative retired, Iwas elected to the Minnesota House andhave served there for the past fouryears. I am vice-chairman of the HouseAgriculture committee and also serveon the K-12 Education Finance Commit-tee and the Environment, Natural Re-sources and Energy Committee.



AMy service on the Agriculture Com-mittee is an example of how legisla-

tors on both sides of the aisle worktogether to get things done. Last year,when the government shut down, theagriculture budget was the only one thatwas passed and signed into law by thegovernor before the shutdown. I wasalso part of the working group made upof both House and Senate membersfrom both parties who put the basicframework of a Vikings stadium bill to-gether.



AIn reality, property taxes are af-fected most by decisions made at

the local level by city councils, schoolboards and county commissioners. I willwork to lower the statewide commer-cial/industrial property tax, or at thevery least, to eliminate the automaticannual increases in that tax, which is ac-tually a double hit on commercial prop-erty. I also support increased funding forthe Property Tax Refund program,which targets relief to homeownersbased on their incomes.

I support maintaining local govern-ment aid and freezing the amount re-

ceived at current levels. Because ofchanges in population made known bythe 2010 census, many of our towns andcities would have seen their LGA levelsreduced, but we passed legislation tokeep the amount the same. In fact, 2012was the first year in the past five thatlocal aid hadn’t been reduced.



AYes, I think the state is taking theright approach by funding increased

enforcement and educational programs.We are also funding nearly $2 million ofresearch at the University of Minnesota,which offers the best hope of coming upwith a biological or chemical method ofcontrolling some of these pests, espe-cially the zebra mussel. Because of thelarge number of lakes and public ac-cesses in Minnesota, trying to policeevery one is a logistical nightmare.That’s why the public must become bet-ter educated and buy in to these pro-grams.



AEnergy efficiency is one componentof reducing our demand for electric-

ity and fuel. But, it can only go so far, andthe easy fruits have already beenplucked. The cost for increased efficien-cies sometimes out-weighs the benefitas utilities and electric co-ops must con-tinue coming up with new ways to con-serve energy.

We have come a long way with our useof renewable forms of energy, and theynow provide a significant portion of ourenergy needs. Going forward, however,many of these alternatives must be ableto stand on their own, with fewer publicsubsidies or tax credits. As the federalgovernment finally faces its own finan-cial crisis, states must make plans toproceed with fewer federal dollars, andthis is one area where that very wellmay happen.

The bottom line is that we need tocontinue having a dependable and rela-tively low cost supply of base load elec-tricity. The technologies for burning coalare improving, and natural gas has be-come a low cost alternative source offuel, and its use should be expanded.Nuclear must also be a part of Min-nesota’s energy future.

PAUL ANDERSON, RDistrict 12B (Incumbent)


�� STATE SENATOR - District 8

QPlease list your background and spe-cific qualifications for this position.

AI have a 34-year career in law enforce-ment, including being elected four times

as the Douglas County Sheriff. In three ofthose elections, I ran unopposed. I have beenelected two times as state senator and amseeking my third term. My years of adminis-trative experience and dealing with and serv-ing the people I have worked for makes mevery qualified to represent them for anotherterm in St. Paul. I take pride in always re-membering who I work for.

QThe public is tired of the partisan poli-tics that often bog down the work of the

Legislature. Specifically, how will you workwith legislators from the other politicalparty to get things done?

AOne must understand that in the Legisla-ture, politicians will not always get along.

This is nothing new. There will and has al-ways been good strong debates. In my sixyears in the senate, I have crossed the aisleand worked with and passed new legislationthat cuts the red tape regulations.

Because of that, businesses now get theirpermits in a more timely fashion. That would-n’t have been accomplished without me work-ing with the Dayton administration. TheVikings stadium wouldn’t have happenedwithout work from both parties, and the inva-sive species work was done in a bi-partisanagreement.

I will compromise when it makes sense formy district, but my conservative values willnot always match up with liberal ideas. Onetop DFL legislator said that we just finished a“do nothing legislative session” because weonly passed 250 new bills. I agree with myconstituents when they think less laws aregood.

QMany people saw significant increasesin property taxes this year. If elected,

what will you do to lower the property taxesfor average/middle class home owners?

ALast session, we passed into law a $30million Homeowner Property Tax Refund

that the DFL lawmakers opposed. Althoughthis bill will show a statewide increase of 2.3percent, it is significantly lower than the 10-year average increase of 6.94 percent. Thisbill was supported by Minnesota county com-missioners, and was signed into law by Gov-ernor Dayton. It is projected that in 2013,homeowner property taxes will decrease by1.6 percent. If re-elected, I will continue towork on lowering taxes for all homeowners inour state.

QIs the state taking the right approach tobattling aquatic invasive species, such

as zebra mussels? What more can be done?

AYes. All the aquatic invasive species (AIS)funding came through the committee that

I chair in the senate. We, in a bi-partisan way,funded $4 million in new money to the Uni-versity of Minnesota for research. We,through the bonding process, funded electricshock barriers for the lock and dam systemsto hold back the flying carp. We also fundedbarriers for the Coon Rapids Dam. With that,along with education and law enforcement, Ifeel the state and our local lake associationshave stepped up in a big way to combat all in-vasive species. With the big work accom-plished, we must still maintain the efforts inthe future.

QWhat priority will you give to energy ef-ficiency and renewable energies? What

energy future do you envision for upcominggenerations in Minnesota?

AWe Minnesotans have expended many re-sources on renewable energy in our state.

We should always encourage the public andbusiness to seek energy efficiencies. Renew-able energy is moving forward in severalareas, and if the outcomes are cost effective,government should not stand in the way.

I, along with other Republican senators,sent a bill to Governor Dayton that would liftthe ban on nuclear energy in our state and hevetoed it. I envision this to be the new mean-ingful, pollution free energy source for our up-coming generations.

BILL INGEBRIGTSEN, RDistrict 8 (Incumbent)

QPlease list your backgroundand specific qualifications

for this position.

AFour years in the MinnesotaSenate, 10 years on the Board

of Directors of Todd Wadena Elec-tric Co-op, 34 years in radiobroadcasting.

QThe public is tired of thepartisan politics that often

bog down the work of the Legis-lature. Specifically, how will youwork with legislators from theother political party to get thingsdone?

ADuring my four years in theSenate, I worked across the

aisle on several issues, includinga veterans’ issue that the gover-nor’s office worked with me on. Iserved with Republican Housemembers in my district and oftencoordinated with them on localbusiness, school, county, city andtownship issues. I have a provenrecord of bipartisan leadership.


this year. If elected, what willyou do to lower the propertytaxes for average/middle classhome owners?

AWe need to reestablish theHomestead Tax Credit and

fund it to the best of our ability; in-crease our local government aid,and push back on property taxes,especially those to small busi-nesses and the elderly, andrenters who get credit.



ANo, we have not done enough.Thirty years ago, we should

have put in place rules and regu-lations to keep ships from dump-ing ballast in the Great Lakes, aleading source for the introduc-tion of AIS. Now we are saddledwith chasing rather than contain-ing, and it will cost millions of dol-lars. We need to step up ourresearch and development be-cause science will be our biggesthelper. And at a time when theDNR admittedly has more landthan they can properly manage,we need to see more of theLegacy money funneled into con-tainment and enforcement oflakes with AIS and those who usethose lakes, not on taking moreproperty off the tax rolls by pur-chasing more land we cannotmanage.

QWhat priority will you give toenergy efficiency and re-

newable energies? What energyfuture do you envision for up-coming generations in Min-nesota?

AEnergy efficiency and renew-able energy should always be

in our long-range strategic plan.Whether in vehicles, home, schooland business construction, indus-try and more, we always shouldstrive to do it better, and cleaner.The renewable energy standardsthat were passed in 2007 are help-ing, but I think we need to givethem and those who work withthem some time to make themwork. Five years is not enough.Meanwhile, I see us slowly addingmore renewable energy, waste toenergy, natural gas and creatingincentives to help that happen.Keeping in mind we need our en-ergy to be reliable, affordable andenvironmentally safe.

DAN SKOGEN, DFLDistrict 8

LEE BYBERG, RQWhy are you

seeking this office?

AI am running for Congress because I amconcerned about the current direction of

our country and what kind of future we willbe handing our children. Government is too

big, too intrusive, too expensive, and spends money that wedo not have. The national deficit and debt are not only a dis-grace, but also a serious threat to the economy. Free marketsare being undermined by crony capitalism, and our healthcare freedom are under threat. I am running because I wantto be part of the solution, not the problem.

QWhat should the federal government do, if anything,to help younger Americans achieve greater financial

security?

AThe federal government is the single-biggest threat toAmericans’ economic security. Deficits, debt, excessive

regulations, a broken tax system, and bailouts for too-big-to-fail companies paid for by small businesses and high taxes allharm the economy and job creation. The unemployment ratefor young Americans is the highest ever recorded in our his-tory, and the only thing that will ensure financial security forthe next generation is a healthy economy unfettered by ex-cessive government. A good job is the best financial security.

QHow should the U.S. meet its energy needs?

A.Sometimes it seems like politicians think energy is adirty word, even though energy is the lifeblood of our

economy and the modern way of life. Government should quitpicking companies and technologies to subsidize, and free ourentrepreneurs to pursue an “all of the above” energy strat-egy. Fossil fuels, biofuels, wind and solar all have their placein the energy mix. Fracking has opened up new sources ofenergy, and the Keystone Pipeline can help bring a secure oilsupply from our Canadian friends. Let’s stop subsidizingboondoggles like Solyndra and start building the KeystonePipeline.

QDescribe what actions you would take in Washingtonto strengthen the economy.

AStop the deficit spending, reign in the EPA, and get thebureaucrats out of the way of our job creators. The

Obama Administration has spent the last three years tryingto “stimulate” and regulate our economy into prosperity, andthe results are dismal. Washington doesn’t create wealthy, butit can easily destroy it. We need to audit and reign in the fed-eral reserve, and quit bailing out failing companies and sub-sidizing companies with political connections. We need tocreate a strong business environment, and ensure that tradeis both free and fair. American needs more jobs, not biggergovernment.

QHow would you work to balance the costs of our do-mestic challenges and military engagements around

the world?

AThe only way to pay for America’s commitments aboardis to ensure a strong economy at home. America needs to

get out of the business of nation-building, and focus on en-suring the security of our country and the stability of trade.America needs the strongest, most technologically advancedarmed forces in the world, but we should be reluctant to usethem except to defend vital security interests. We also need toreign in domestic spending, as the largest challenge to ournational security today is our ballooning deficit and debt.

COLLIN PETERSON, DFL

QWhy are you seeking this office?

ACollin C. Peterson: If Ihave the honor of being

re-elected Congressman ofMinnesota’s Seventh District, I will continueto be an independent voice on behalf of myconstituents and for rural economic develop-ment. I also am working to secure funding forwater retention projects that could help alle-viate flooding in many communities through-out the Red River Valley.

QWhat should the federal governmentdo, if anything, to help younger Ameri-

cans achieve greater financial security?

AWe can help younger Americans achievegreater financial security by cutting

spending and paying down the debt that ourcountry has accumulated over the lastdecade. I was one of 38 Democrats and Re-publicans who recently voted for the Simp-son-Bowles Amendment to balance thebudget and reduce the deficit in a responsibleway. We have to stop fighting over ideologyand put our country back on a solid fiscalpath.

QHow should the U.S. meet its energyneeds?

AEnergy is a bright spot in our economy,and there are many opportunities for re-

newable energy and domestic production tohelp meet America’s needs. Agriculture hashelped to develop many renewable energy op-tions and we are seeing those markets grow.The U.S. also can continue to promote con-servation to help us reduce our dependenceon foreign sources of energy.

QDescribe what actions you would takein Washington to strengthen the econ-

omy.

AWashington should stop trying to fix theeconomy and let it run its course. Con-

gress should pass long-term infrastructurebills that pay for themselves, like the trans-portation reauthorization that rebuilds ouraging public infrastructure while promotingeconomic development and creating jobs.

QHow would you work to balance thecosts of our domestic challenges and

military engagements around the world?

ATo balance our long-term budget, everydomestic and defense program must be

on the table. We’ll always respond to nationalsecurity threats, however, we have to pay forthe military engagements that we get in-volved in or we’ll continue to accumulatedebt. If we put all options on the table andwork together to make the tough choices, wecan get back on track.

ADAM STEELE, IndependenceQWhy are you

seeking this office?

ATo bring Constitutional justice to Min-nesota. We reacted with horror to what

happened at Guantanamo. But this sort ofdenial of Constitutional rights goes on con-

tinuously in certain Northern Minnesota regions wherecorrupt officials are in power; and it affects not interna-tional terrorists, but law-abiding U.S. citizens. Targeted in-nocent people are being framed, by law enforcement, forcrimes they didn’t commit, and once jailed are denied bail,competent counsel, and the right to present evidence intheir defense. Many are coerced into pleading guilty; oth-ers are sentenced to prison. See the Steve Samuelson caseat steelescampsite.info

QWhat should the federal government do, if any-thing, to help younger Americans achieve greater

financial security?

AIt should encourage them to get a job, and be thrifty.Multi-generation welfare dependence must be

scrapped. Every able-bodied person should work, if theywant to eat. If the private sector cannot provide enoughjobs, there are many public services (like the old C.C.C.)that can provide work. It is time America returned to itsplace as a creditor (producing and exporting) nation; not adebtor (consuming more than it produces) one. This will re-store individual security, as well as to protect the value ofthe dollar and the stability of the U.S. in global economy.

QHow should the U.S. meet its energy needs?

AFirst and foremost is population control. We’ve outbredour resources. That’s why gasoline costs what it does.

Food and clean water will be not far behind. It is time to re-move all government economic incentives to overbreeding(such as the misnamed “Earned Income Credit”, which isactually welfare wrapped in a tax form, for people withkids); and provide education and incentives as to the needto control our population. Secondly, the government shouldtake a greater role in making wind and solar affordable toaverage property owners and small businesses.

QDescribe what actions you would take in Washing-ton to strengthen the economy.

ARestore the American work ethic that made this coun-try great. Encourage work and production; remove pro-

grams that discourage same. That will help correct thetrade imbalance. Restore backing, as much as can now bedone, to the dollar.

QHow would you work to balance the costs of our do-mestic challenges and military engagements

around the world?

AMilitary strength is important, particularly with peoplelike Iran’s Ahmadinejad running around. But we don’t

need any more $200 toilet seats. As an accountant, I am fa-miliar with prioritization and budgeting. Here in NorthernMinnesota, one sees waste of tax money almost daily inwidening and resurfacing roads that don’t need it, to funnelmoney to the sweetheart contractors; and other unneededprojects and staff. With waste eliminated, there is enoughtax money for the needed domestic challenges; and to keepthe world’s strongest military. And Social Security benefitsshould not be taxed.

�� U.S. HOUSE - District 7 Editor’s note: The following information was provided through the League of Women Voters Minnesota Education Fund, with support from Target.

(Incumbent)


QPlease list your background andspecific qualifications for this posi-

tion.

AAfter a normal, small-town childhoodin Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, I came to

Minnesota as a young adult to attend Car-leton College in Northfield.

Upon graduating from Carleton, whereI majored in economics, I worked fornearly 10 years in New York City. First atthe Irving Trust Company, a very largecommercial bank, and then at LehmanBrothers, which at the time was thelargest investment bank in the nation.

While in New York, I studied at theNYU night school for a master’s degreein business administration with a con-centration in banking and finance. At thesame time, I was a music theory studentin the evening program at The JuilliardSchool. I had a lot of energy then; still do.

But agriculture got the best of me. I leftNew York in 1973 and bought a large (forthat time) farm in Big Stone County. Iraised registered Polled Herefords andsome of the less-common grain crops:barley, durum and sunflowers. And I didpretty well. My cattle won in the showring, at the test stations, and in the salebarn. My crops were good, too, except forthe complete drought of 1976.

In 1979, I was named Minnesota Con-servation Farmer of the Year. I paid mybills and made progress until 1980, whichbrought us Ronald Reagan and Paul Vol-cker.

Like all beginning farmers, especiallythose starting from scratch (which couldactually be done in those days), I carriedsignificant debt. So when interest ratesskyrocketed and grain and cattle pricesfell, I was in trouble.

Eventually, I sold most of my land andpaid all my debts. But I was able to keepa few acres and a building site. Unwillingto quit entirely, I still run a few cattle inthe summer and keep a few chickens,both broilers and layers.

After farming for almost 20 years, I be-came a registered investment advisor ina small firm I started called Ethical In-vestments. We counseled individuals andfoundations on socially responsible in-vesting. Our clients earned good returnson investments concentrated with com-panies that were also good corporate cit-izens.

More recently, I’ve focused on helpinggood non-profit organizations refine theirmessages and raise the funds necessary

to accomplish their goals. I’m prettyskilled in speaking and writing clearlyand know that when people understandthe message, they are much more likelyto support the organization. I’ve workedwith the Minnesota Land Trust, South-side Family School, Carleton College,and, most recently, the Center for Victimsof Torture.

Perhaps more importantly, this workallows me to live full time on the farmagain, which I’ve done for the past 10-plusyears.

Even to a casual observer, it’s obviousthat Minnesota is suffering a crisis ofleadership. In my view, I can help solvethat. I have extensive experience in agri-culture (the economic engine of SD12)and a wealth of education and involve-ment in the business community. I havea broad background of experience andthe skills that can help reverse our cur-rent backward direction.


work of the Legislature. Specifically,how will you work with legislators fromthe other political party to get thingsdone?

ASuccessful political action is notabout pushing a personal agenda, re-

gardless of the nature of the legislativebody or needs of the constituents. It’sabout the act of compromise. It’s aboutworking with others to develop the ideasthat best serve, not just the legislator’sconstituency, but the entire state of Min-nesota.

Last year, the Republican majority de-cided to shut down the state governmentrather than compromise in any way. Inmy view, that’s not the way competentlegislators operate and, if elected, I willnot follow such a path.



AProperty taxes have increased asstate aid to our area has decreased.

There are two ways to reset the state’sability to support our area: increased rev-enues and decreased expenditures. Asthe economy improves, tax revenues tothe state will increase.

The state tax code can be reworked at

the highest income levels to make itfairer, also increasing revenues. Gover-nor Dayton has already begun, and I sup-port the continuation of a morestreamlined structure for state adminis-trative agencies, decreasing expendi-tures.

While some candidates have claimedthere is wide-spread waste in state gov-ernment, none of them has produced alist of such wasteful areas or offered con-crete suggestions for improvement.



AFighting invasive species is a very dif-ficult task. The more aggressive the

actions taken, the more disruption occursin all related systems. Striking a balancebetween the types of action under con-sideration requires the professional ad-vice of knowledgeable people, along withthe informed input of our citizens. Thatbalance must always consider the poten-tial for failure and the possibility thesespecies may become established, or, in-deed, prominent, in our area. The conse-quences of such a scenario shouldtemper the discussion. How much can weafford to lose economically if we lose thebiological battle? Since I am not a biolo-gist, I would depend upon, but not acqui-esce to, professional counsel.



A“Priority” suggests a numerical rat-ing system, which, in my view, is nei-

ther truly reflective nor rigidly applicablein legislative action. There is no questionthat we must address energy considera-tions in our state. We would like to dimin-ish actions disruptive to our economicsituation while acknowledging that thetime for action is right now.

Every alternative energy source needsto be examined in this light. How does ithelp? Is it sustainable? Is it economicallyfeasible? Could it become feasible underdifferent circumstances? Conservationefforts should get closer attention thanthey currently warrant.

JOHN SCHULTZ, DFLDistrict 12


sition.

AI am married with three children:twin daughters and a son. We live in

and own a home in Elbow Lake. I grewup on a dairy farm near Elbow Lake andgraduated from West Central HighSchool. I worked my way through col-lege, earning degrees from BemidjiState University and later the WilliamMitchell College of Law.

With experience in livestock agri-busi-ness, and as a small business owner, Irepresent our rural values and way oflife in St. Paul.

I lost my eyesight in a farm-related ac-cident in 1987, but I have tried to neverlet this challenge stop me in life. Likeeveryone who faces adversity from timeto time, I work hard to find a way to getthings done.

In 2011, I was named one of fourspeaker pro tempore by the MinnesotaSpeaker of the House and served in thisrole the past two years. In 2012, withgreat humility, I was nominated and in-ducted into the high school nationalWrestling Hall of Fame as the recipientof the Medal of Courage award.


work of the Legislature. Specifically,how will you work with legislators fromthe other political party to get thingsdone?

AI would promote committee chairsand vice-chairs to be a mix of Re-

publicans and Democrats; have more ofa pro-rata percentage of the legislativemake-up of each party on the commit-tees; change legislative rules so everylegislator could be assured of having twoto five bills with an up or down vote onthe House floor every session, so oneparty cannot lock them out.

I will vigorously fight against any “gagrules” that would try to be imposed tolimit debate of the minority party. Thiswas implemented for the first time in2008 by the DFL leadership, who was incontrol then. In 2012, I joined forces withDemocrat and Republican legislators torepeal this rule. I believe it should staythat way so all elected legislators havethe ability to raise their constituent is-

sues on the Senate or House floors.



AI would again support levy limits toallow property taxpayers to be pro-

tected from increases beyond the rate ofinflation, unless the local unit of govern-ment (LUG) passes a referendum. Thisis the same way our school districts op-erate and cannot just raise propertytaxes if they want. This is the purestform of local control when each propertytaxpayer has a final vote.

I also support giving all LUGs theright to opt out of any unfunded mandatewith a three-fifths vote. This would dra-matically allow LUGs to reduce coststhat either the state or federal govern-ment impose on them.



ANot completely. Last year, I intro-duced HF 1439, which would have

established a DNR pilot project to testthe effectiveness of Zequanox in Dou-glas County lakes. This proposal camefrom a group of local constituents andinitially from a conversation at a localtire shop, where they brought Zequanoxto my attention.

Zequanox is a naturally occuring or-ganism that is lethal to zebra andquagga mussels but harmless to otheraquatic species. It is primarily used toremove zebra mussels from industrialplants that draw water from rivers andlakes, but researchers continue to studyits efficacy in areas of open water thatare infested with zebra mussels.

Initially, in 2011, the DNR was unin-terested in testing Zequanox. Their ap-proach was to just make more criminalsout of average Minnesotans through ex-treme penalties and fines. Many thinkthis borders on going too far, yet pro-tecting our lakes is important. By onlyadding more criminal penalties, it justfocuses on punishment instead of eradi-cation research.

In recent years, the DNR has relied on

heavier fines and penalties, includingcriminal charges, for people who do notleave their boat plug out when movingthe boat on a trailer, for example.

Fortunately, this past summer, theDNR changed its stance toward Ze-quanox a bit and announced that theywill test it at Lake Carlos. The test willbe done by injecting Zequanox into con-trolled tanks filled with lake water thatis infested with zebra mussels.

I think the DNR should embrace moreavenues to combat AIS. They maybeshould be more focused on all the lakesthat have known AIS and make sure noboats leave those lakes without beingclean. AIS can even be spread by birds,so eradication is ultimately a more-suregoal to stop more AIS infestation.

Recently, I met with local constituentswho made me aware of the DNR makingthe new criminal rules so tough thatthey cannot comply and have recentlyapplied for a permit to exempt them-selves. This permit would allow them totransport their equipment with potentialAIS on it. Hence, it has maybe gone toofar when the DNR cannot even complywith their own rules.



AJust like natural gas, clean coal andnuclear power, renewable energies

need to remain a part of Minnesota’s en-ergy supply. All of the above is a bal-anced and reasonable approach. Thisallows the state to help promote home-grown renewable energies, but thatneeds to be balanced with the cost ofsuch renewable energies.

The competitive energies like windhave grown significantly in our stateover the past 20 years. More expensivesources should continue to be tested andresearch done through our universitiesand electric companies. This will helpkeep bringing those costs down as theybecome more commercially viable.

I will continue to seek this balancedapproach, being cognizant that we can-not drive up the cost of electricity morefor consumers, but there is a legitimateplace for homegrown renewable ener-gies where they make sense.

TORREY WESTROM, RDistrict 12

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��COMMISSIONER -District 1

�� STATE SENATOR - District 12


this position.

ALifetime resident, born andraised in Douglas County. Fa-

ther was Orvin, mother Nadine re-sides in Evansville. Married toCheryl 43 years. We have three kidsand six grandkids, two of whom at-tend Brandon-Evansville ChargerHigh School. Graduated fromEvansville High School and StaplesVo-Tech. Member of ChippewaLutheran Church and EvansvilleAmerican Legion. More than 140years of family history in DouglasCounty have imprinted the need tokeep Douglas County a good placefor our kids, grandkids and, some-day, great-grandkids to live. Mywork history of farming, a tour ofduty in the Army in Vietnam, rais-ing a family and being involved intheir church, school and 4-H activi-ties, doing construction work andtownship assessing, driving snow-plow for the township, 13 years onthe Urness Town Board and 8.5years on the county board hasgiven me the experience to do thisjob.

QWhat do you view as thebiggest challenge facing the

county right now and how wouldyou deal with it?

AAs always, it’s the budget. Sinceour 2009 budget (assuming the

2013 budget is approved at 2 per-cent), the levy has increased $3.2million. The cost of fuel, labor and$1.2 million in state revenue cuts tothe county has made budgeting in-teresting. The way county govern-ment works must change if weexpect real estate taxes to continuepaying 50 percent of the totalbudget.

QWould you say the currentboard has shown commitment

and follow through on currentprojects, for example the law en-forcement and services centerand courtroom remodel? Whatwould your strategy be to furtherprogress?

AI think our board has followedthrough with the remodel of the

service center (old Central HighSchool). This has been a very longprocess, but it will be completed bythe end of the year. Some of the re-model decisions have not been easyand not always a 5-0 vote, but afterthe vote, the entire board has sup-ported the decision. The countyboard’s choice has been very clear:catch up with fix-up, or scrap thisbuilding and spend three timesmore to replace the space used byDouglas County in the service cen-ter.

QIs there anything more thecounty can do to combat

aquatic invasive species, such aszebra mussels? Share otherthoughts about protecting waterquality.

AWe will continue to support ed-ucation about invasive species

and continue use of the county’spower wash at boat landings aslong as needed. Removing largequantities of carp has made a hugedifference in water quality in RedRock Lake.

QCounty commissioners haverecently opened communica-

tion with the Alexandria CityCouncil. What would you con-tribute to this partnership?

AThe joint meetings twice a yearprovide a chance for our Dou-

glas County Board and the Alexan-dria City Council to discuss sharedresponsibilities, such as the 5th Av-enue extension to the Public Worksbuilding, the turning back of countyroads to the city and flood board.Many of these things are routinelyhandled by staff with no face-to-face discussion by our electedboards.

GERALD “JERRY”JOHNSONDistrict 1 (Incumbent)


QPlease list your background and specific qualificationsfor this position.

ASince 2005, I have attended a majority of the county com-missioners’ board meetings as well as Board of Adjust-

ment and Planning Advisory Board meetings. As a member ofthe board of directors for a nonprofit, this added to my experi-ence in management.

My professional experience includes: City of St. Paul’s Plan-ning Economic Development, interacting with city officials re-garding census data; office/store operations manager for achain of retail stores, managing the store’s inventory, imple-menting a computerized inventory system for owners to trackstore inventory, hiring and managing staff in the office andwarehouse, maintaining the business financial records andworking with the CPA.

As a small business owner for 22 years in real estate, I man-aged every aspect of my business, which covers advertising,crisis management, marketing and unbelievable communica-tion responsibilities. In a large company, I trained new agents,and I participated in the management program. The commu-nication component is the most important skill when workingwith title companies, appraisers, loan officers, buyers, sellers,other realtors, advertisers and inspectors, which results in asuccessful home purchase. Interacting with people in everyaspect comes naturally to me and will serve our county well.

QWhat do you view as the biggest challenge facing thecounty right now and how would you deal with it?

AThat is a multifaceted question, as all departments thecounty manages have challenges facing them around

budgeting. The county needs to be looking at how to be able todeliver services when the local government aid is lowered oreliminated in 2015. This should not be ignored, and we shouldplan now for that possibility.

The biggest challenge is broad in that, as the need increasesfor social services with the baby boom generation entering re-tirement, dollars will need to be very wisely spent, and effi-ciencies will need to be found to stretch those dollars and notcut services

The Public Health Department is in the process of consid-ering merging several counties into forming one entity. Thisneeds much scrutiny, as the impact may be positive to somebut not others. How might it affect the delivery of services tothose in need? Close attention and involvement of the board isneeded to have an informed voice.

Future expansion of courts will be a topic that will need re-visiting, as there was no expansion done when the jail andLEC were constructed. The need is there.

QWould you say the current board has shown commit-ment and follow through on current projects, for ex-

ample the law enforcement and services center andcourtroom remodel? What would your strategy be to fur-ther progress?

AMuch time, energy and dollars were put into trying to fit asquare peg in a round hole, keeping the jail downtown.

More than $200,000 was spent on consultant’s time redesign-ing and having studies done repeatedly and then rejectingthem over and over during four years of debate. This timecould have been more effective working with the Sheriff, con-sultants and other board members communicating concernsand managing costs.

It appeared as though some board members decided not toaccept a green site, even though that was the recommenda-tion of the justice committee. The board also was advisedmany times against building on the downtown site by paid con-sultants, yet it was pursued. The energy, time and moneyspent trying to defeat the green site was wasted as the dollarsspent now exceed the original project cost.

Also, the county did not leverage their opportunity to costshare with the city on a joint law enforcement center. This wasnot a business-based decision, a waste of time and money. Nowwe are stuck with a disjointed system having the jail, LEC andthe courts in separate locations. Plus, we have a beautiful newpublic works building we didn’t need.

QIs there anything more the county can do to combataquatic invasive species, such as zebra mussels?

Share other thoughts about protecting water quality.

ADouglas County has been a leader in the state around thisissue and needs to remain there. The county made a first

step in fighting these aquatic invaders by acquiring a decont-amination station at the recommendation of the board-ap-pointed Douglas County Citizens Committee.

My involvement in this arena has included going to the Leg-islature pleading for more funding for the DNR. Through this,I have gained invaluable information that can be used to fur-ther the education that is so desperately needed that thecounty can participate in at minimal cost.

This growing issue has been on the forefront in D.C. since Ibrought it forward to the Douglas County Lakes Association in2008. I was on the cutting edge gathering information and try-ing to gain support from area lakes that we needed to do some-thing. While we cannot completely stop the spread of theseinvasives because either people remain ignorant of the facts ordon’t care, the spread needs to be slowed. It is ignorant to be-lieve doing nothing has no consequences. Slowing the spreadallows more time for scientists to find a viable way to eradi-cate these invaders. My experience can be used effectivelyhere.

QCounty commissioners have recently opened commu-nication with the Alexandria City Council. What would

you contribute to this partnership?

AIt is unfortunate that this is news. Dialogue between thecities and the county should be expected, not “recently

opened.” By being engaged, attending each other’s meetings,you can gain a spirit of cooperation that continues in time leastexpected. Good communication should be a trait that all com-missioners possess.

A skill I possess is to gain respect from others through beingengaged and knowledgeable in whatever I do. Collaborationsaves everyone involved time and money by being able toshare experiences with what works and does not in any givenarea.

Being a commissioner should be a career and, as such,would include being involved with all agencies and communi-cating with them. My expectations are high in the area ofknowing who the players are in any given arena, which is a bigpart of communication. The only way to do that is to be en-gaged at the local and state level. I enjoy being engaged andwill continue to be.

BONNIE HUETTLDistrict 1

QPlease list your background and specificqualifications for this position.

AAs a long-time resident of Douglas County, Iunderstand the issues and challenges the cit-

izens of Douglas County face as we move for-ward. As a home owner, I have an interest inmaintaining a tax structure to keep the countycompetitive for business and for residents.

I will bring new energy and prior experiencedeveloping teams in both the business and pub-lic sector to the board. The commissioners needto work together and make a commitment tokeeping Douglas County a leader and a placewhere people want to and can afford to live.

I will bring a history of proven leadership skillsto the board. Examples of this are serving as pastpresident of the Viking Sportsmen and a memberof the Sertoma executive board.

I have demonstrated the ability to work with avariety of people from both the business and pri-vate sides of the community. With a varied em-ployment history that includes service,management and non-profit, I have developedstrong verbal and written communication skills. Ifeel this will serve the position well because it isessential that issues and possible solutions bediscussed with the constituents before major de-cisions are made. I value people’s opinions andopinions with data even more.

QWhat do you view as the biggest challengefacing the county right now and how would

you deal with it.

AWe have an issue of runaway spending. Iwould address the issue by looking at the real

needs of the county. Once they are identified,close examination of budgets past and presentmay lead to potential savings and cuts.

A list of the wants that are presented can be an-alyzed and determine if they are needed. If theprospective project has a potential pay back tothe county, we need to determine what the bene-fit truly is and work out a time line that will en-able it to be completed without increasing taxes.

We have been on a run that has convolutedthem into one category, and it has cost the tax-payers way too much.

The recent court decision concerning theAlexandria Lakes Area Sewer District will be oneof the biggest issues facing the county in the nearfuture. I would do my best to bring the facts to thepublic so they can understand what the issues areand what the potential costs to the county couldbe.

QWould you say the current board has showncommitment and follow through on current

projects, for example the law enforcement andservices center and courtroom remodel? Whatwould your strategy be to further progress?

AI can remember my father would say, “Youcan’t make a silk purse from a pig’s ear,” if I

had an unrealistic idea. The county has spentmany dollars trying to turn an old school build-ing, that the school did not want for many rea-sons, into what we have today.

But this is not productive. It is a decision thatwas made, and now we have to live with it.

What I would like to see now is a budget lineitem to pay for the cost of maintenance to ensurethat in 10 years we are not in the same situation,with people saying we need a new law enforce-ment or service center.

QIs there anything more the county can do tocombat aquatic invasive species, such as

zebra mussels? Share other thoughts aboutprotecting water quality.

AEveryone is quick to point fingers and blamesomeone else for bringing invasive species to

our area lakes. The hard part is to come up witha coalition of all the players and focus not onblame but on solutions. Many of these aquaticspecies are not new to the lakes and streams inthe U.S. We need to pressure the DNR to be moreaggressive in their research to kill mussels. Thefinancial impact of tourism to the county makes itvery important in finding a solution to prevent thefurther infestations in our area.

We must make the first thing everyone thinksabout when moving boats, docks and lifts is whatchance is there of moving a mussel? We need totreat every lake as if it is infested because wenever know if and when it could be identified andadded to the list of infested lakes. When, in themeantime, we have moved our boats and otherequipment to other area lakes and infested them.This is going to have to be everyone’s responsi-bility and foremost on their minds when dealingwith anything concerning our lakes and water-ways.

QCounty commissioners have recentlyopened communication with the Alexan-

dria City Council. What would you contributeto this partnership?

AMy thoughts on this process are: Why did ittake so long? Alexandria is just one of the

many pieces of the puzzle that make up DouglasCounty. Although it is a major part of the DouglasCounty community, all communities in DouglasCounty need to have input into county plans.Without their commitment to the county’s over-all plans, it would be like leaving out one of ourtownships and their residents.

I would encourage more conversation with theAlexandria City Council. What I see happening isa potential partnership in services and systemsin the city and county.

What I would bring to the partnership would bea clear goal of streamlining any replicated serv-ice or process that both the city and county per-form. As we look toward the future, we cannotafford to do business as usual simply because it iswhat we have always done.

I see the next several years as pivotal in ourbeing able to provide the level of services ourcounty residents have come to expect. With newgrowth and added needs, resources will bestretched. Now is the time to plan for the future.

JAMES STRATTONDistrict 2

QPlease list your background and specificqualifications for this position.

AMy background has given me a lot of oppor-tunity to work with the people of our commu-

nity and surrounding communities, as deputy,sheriff, business owner and commissioner for thepast six years.

QWhat do you view as the biggest challengefacing the county right now and how would

you deal with it.

AOne of the big challenges our board faces isto see the completion of the Horizon health

merger and to keep in mind the possibility ofother counties in our district sharing services.

QWould you say the current board has showncommitment and follow through on current

projects, for example the law enforcement andservices center and courtroom remodel? Whatwould your strategy be to further progress?

AI would say the current board is very com-mitted to the completion of the law enforce-

ment services center, and the courtroom remodelwill move to the top of the list when the currentprojects are completed and the funds are avail-able.

Q. Is there anything more the county can doto combat aquatic invasive species, such as

zebra mussels? Share other thoughts aboutprotecting water quality.

AAs for protecting our water quality, DouglasCounty has purchased a portable washing

unit to be used at the public access of infestedlakes as has the DNR. We must keep informingpeople how important it is to clean boats andtrailers upon entering and exiting our lakes. A bigthank you to the Douglas County Lake Associa-tion for bringing this problem to our attention andcooperation in a plan of action.

QCounty commissioners have recentlyopened communication with the Alexandria

City Council. What would you contribute to thispartnership?

ACommunication between Douglas Countycommissioners and Alexandria City Council

just makes sense. It could prevent duplication ofservices by sharing ideas that could save us allmoney, while still providing the best possibleservice to our city and county.

NORM SALTODistrict 2 (Incumbent)

��COMMISSIONER - District 1

�� COMMISSIONER - District 2



sition.

AI was born and raised on a farm inBarnesville and went to Assumption

Grade School, Barnesville High Schooland to North Dakota State College ofScience.

I was employed by IBM Corporationfor 16 years. My duties were in adminis-tration and personnel. I was also a na-tional instructor for IBM, the firstfemale instructor in IBM’s field engi-neering division, conducting classes in20 major cities.

For 27 years, I was a successful smallbusiness owner/operator. I am widowedand have one daughter, Becky. She is di-vision director for corrections inStearns County. Becky’s husband,Adam, is an engineer at Alexandria In-dustries. They have two sons, Drew, 6,and Collin, 3.

My experience being a grandmother,growing up on a farm, working in thecorporate world, running a small busi-ness, in addition to township and countygovernment experience, gives me agreat background to continue serving ascounty commissioner.

QWhat do you view as the biggestchallenge facing the county right


AI think one of the major challengesmay be to convince citizens how im-

portant county government is to them.Some may not know what a countybudget includes or serves. They need toknow counties are entities of the stateand are at their mercy. It becomes amajor issue as how to provide all theservices of a growing county while keep-ing expenses down.

It becomes a huge challenge for town-ships, counties and cities to keep upwith the needs of the people with theLegislature cutting homestead creditfor 95 percent of the people, raising theirtaxes, with the constant unfunded man-dates by the state and the program aidthat is constantly cut.

It is difficult to plan and budget whenthe rules keep changing. We discussnew issues with technology and its costat every board meeting. Every depart-ment has issues with budget pressuresand inflation.

QWould you say the current boardhas shown commitment and follow

through on current projects, for exam-ple the law enforcement and servicescenter and courtroom remodel? Whatwould your strategy be to furtherprogress?

AThe law enforcement center is closeto being totally remodeled. I believe

that it will be an improvement thateveryone will appreciate. It has beencontroversial at nearly every step of theway, but my main goal has been to keepthe court and law enforcement togetherand save many dollars. I still believethat this has been wise. If you comparealternative plans, this has been a con-siderable cost savings and changes forreal future needs.

QIs there anything more the countycan do to combat aquatic invasive

species, such as zebra mussels? Shareother thoughts about protecting waterquality.

ADouglas County has led the state ininvasive species control. We are a

test county trying a product that killsthe zebra mussels. The signage at pub-lic accesses has made folks more awareof protecting our lakes from aquaticspecies. So many issues with water pol-lution are not visible. Mussels are so vis-ible, and their control is controversial.We must stay alert to all pollution to pro-tect our lake area resources.

QCounty commissioners have re-cently opened communication

with the Alexandria City Council. Whatwould you contribute to this partner-ship?

AThe question is directed at the cityof Alexandria and Douglas County. I

would first like to say that I have alwayshad open communication with the town-ships and cities in my district. Theirneeds are well known by me, and theirbudget issues are of real concern to me.

There has been ongoing discussion asAlexandria has acquired townshipareas, highway jurisdiction haschanged, licensure or code discussionhas been necessary. All levels of gov-ernment compete with each other forprograms and tax dollars. There areoften turf issues.

However, meetings between city andcounty are an excellent way to seewhere we agree and disagree and arenecessary for good decision-making.They are helpful to see where we cansave taxpayer dollars.

I have opened up lots of conversationwith other counties through the com-mittees I serve on statewide and willcontinue to see what we can do together,be it a city or township or other county,for the good of all.

BEV BALESDistrict 3 (Incumbent)


sition.

AI was born and raised in Alexandriaand have been a resident of Carlos

Township for 45 years. My wife, Jane,and I have four children, Jeremy, Mag-gie, Robert and Lane.

I am a graduate of Jefferson HighSchool and Alexandria Technical Col-lege. I am a veteran of the United StatesArmy, having served our country from1969-1971. I am also a lifetime memberof Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria.

My parents, Bob and Lavon Rapp, livein the Alexandria area.

I am co-owner of Rapp Construction,Inc., with more than 40 years’ experi-ence in commercial and residential con-struction, on-site sewer treatmentinstallations and hooking up ALASDsewer connections.

I have also been active in farming forthe past 40 years, and I am well awareof all the challenges that the farmersfact to make a living today. I know whatit takes to keep the fuel tanks full andthe equipment running. I believe thatwith my background as a businessowner in my fields, that I can providethe positive leadership required andbring new direction to the voters andtaxpayers of Douglas County in District3.

QWhat do you view as the biggestchallenge facing the county right


AI feel the biggest challenge facingthe county right now is stabilizing

taxes. I realize there are necessary ex-penses in running the county govern-ment. Growth is very important, but ifthis growth costs the taxpayers more intax dollars, then we need to take a betterlook at the spending. I do believe wehave to take a conservative approachwhen spending your tax dollars.

We need to support and encourageour small businesses. Employers can-not hire employees without the work tomake it profitable. We shouldn’t movepeople into Douglas County withoutavailable jobs or this will burden our al-ready stressed economy. We need to beknowledgeable, caring and cautiousabout all decision making but still be ag-gressive enough to make smart deci-sions.

I am also well aware of the day-to-dayissues and concerns that face seniors.People on fixed incomes are greatly af-fected by the rising real estate taxes.

With my leadership as your District 3county commissioner, I would aim to dowhatever is necessary to maintain sta-bility with expenditures to control yourtaxes. We need to stabilize real estatetaxes to prevent being taxed out of ourhomes.

QWould you say the current boardhas shown commitment and follow

through on current projects, for exam-ple the law enforcement and servicescenter and courtroom remodel? Whatwould your strategy be to furtherprogress?

AThe projects that are currently inmotion for Douglas County are com-

mitted and need to be followed throughto completion.

As District 3 county commissioner, Iwould be hands-on future projects. Iwould make certain that as many of theproducts and materials being used areavailable locally. This would help ourlocal economy, as well as being efficientwith budget spending.

QIs there anything more the countycan do to combat aquatic invasive

species, such as zebra mussels? Shareother thoughts about protecting waterquality.

As far as the issue to combat theaquatic invasive species, the obviousway to control the zebra mussels is topersonally take every precaution to notremove any watercraft, dock, boatlift,anchors or bait from infected watersand move them to uninfected waters.Without a doubt, we have an uphill bat-tle.

If you sell any items that have been inany infected waters, you must take re-sponsibility and inform the buyer whatneeds to be done before transferring. Itis absolutely everyone’s responsibility tomonitor ourselves to keep the problemfrom getting worse.

QCounty commissioners have re-cently opened communication

with the Alexandria City Council. Whatwould you contribute to this partner-ship?

AI think that open communicationwith the city council is a very posi-

tive move forward. There are manybusiness owners that live outside ofAlexandria city limits and cannot voteon issues that affect their businesses inthe city of Alexandria. With this opencommunication between the county andthe city, it will bring positive represen-tation for District 3 to the business own-ers that fall under this guideline. Withthe city and county working together,this should bring better decision makingfor all taxpayers.

The small towns in District 3, Carlos,Miltona, Nelson and Osakis, are greatsmall towns to raise a family, and I per-sonally want to see them maintain theirown identity.

Your vote for me, Jerry Rapp, as Dis-trict 3 county commissioner, will bringpositive impact with fresh ideas andnew direction. Thank you for your sup-port!

JERRY RAPPDistrict 3


this position.

AI was born and raised in DouglasCounty. I graduated from Jeffer-

son High School in 1973. I went toAlexandria Tech and graduated witha degree in sales and marketing. Ihave worked full time at GardenCenter since 1974.

My wife, Kathy, and I have beenmarried since 1978. I have threegrown children, two sons and adaughter, all living in DouglasCounty. My two sons and I currentlyown and operate our family busi-ness. I retired from the AlexandriaFire Department with more than 20years of service. I was president ofthe AFD Relief Association for 18years.

I was on the board of directors forViking Savings Association from1996 to 2008. I have been on the Min-nesota Bowling Proprietors Boardof Directors since 1984. I have beenon the executive board for 12 years,serving as the president in 2005 and2006. I am active in the West CentralFood and Beverage Association andam now serving my second term aspresident.

QWhat do you view as thebiggest challenge facing the

county right now and how wouldyou deal with it?

AI believe the biggest challengeright now is trying to reduce the

government’s wasteful spendingwhile continuing to run an efficient

operation. I would try to get each de-partment to work more efficientlywithin their budget.

QWould you say the currentboard has shown commitment

and follow through on currentprojects, for example the law en-forcement and services centerand courtroom remodel? Whatwould your strategy be to furtherprogress?

AI think they definitely had goodfollow through on their project

with the courthouse and the old Cen-tral School. I would make sure thereis a better maintenance program inplace moving forward.


aquatic invasive species, such aszebra mussels? Share otherthoughts about protecting waterquality.

AI think the county has beendoing a good job keeping an eye

on that. I think if we continue to workclosely with the DNR, our waterquality will improve.

QCounty commissioners haverecently opened communica-

tion with the Alexandria CityCouncil. What would you con-tribute to this partnership?

AI think the city and countyshould work together as often as

possible. We could save the taxpay-ers money if we didn’t duplicatesome services.

CHARLIE MEYERDistrict 4

QPlease list your background and spe-cific qualifications for this position.

AI was raised in Pope County as a farmboy. Following my education, my military

service was in the Army Security Agency inadministration. Most of my military time wasin Kyoto, Japan.

Following that, I spent 31 years in the in-surance industry and at the same timeserved Alexandria Township as clerk/trea-surer. I have served on the board of direc-tors for the Association of MinnesotaCounties and as District 4 chair of the 11counties in western Minnesota.

My wife Velma and I have been married forthe past 64 years. During this relationship wewere blessed with two children, Sandy, whopassed away in 1999 at age 49 and Dan, whois a teacher in Florida.

QWhat do you view as the biggest chal-lenge facing the county right now and

how would you deal with it?

AAll units of government, federal, stateand local, are becoming too large to be ef-

ficient. We must do whatever is necessary tobecome more efficient in our delivery ofservices such as cooperating with otherunits of government and working closer withour Legislature, urging them to enact legis-lation that would enable us to deliver serv-ices more efficiently. I would continue to doas I have advocated in the past.

This would include combining serviceswith other entities locally and other counties.We must rid ourselves of the “us and they”attitude and work together. If we can do this,we would be able to deliver the needed serv-ices more efficiently. Please remember, wehave five unions in our courthouse who rep-resent many of our employees. Throughhours of negotiation, we were able to set ourlevy for 2013 at 2.03 percent, and hopefully by

December 15, we will be able to reduce thisto 1 percent or lower.

QWould you say the current board hasshown commitment and follow

through on current projects, for examplethe law enforcement and services centerand courtroom remodel? What would yourstrategy be to further progress?

AI for one am not happy with the con-struction costs involved in our law en-

forcement buildings. This is an area wherecooperation between county and city couldhave saved us many dollars. But we cannotlook back, we must move forward. This iswhere the long range plan would come intothe picture. We have the plan. Now we mustuse it.

QIs there anything more the county cando to combat aquatic invasive species,

such as zebra mussels? Share otherthoughts about protecting water quality.

AThis is an area where we must dependon experts in the field such as DNR and

citizens who are trained in this effort. Wemust look at the most economical solution.

If you, as our taxpayers, have any ideas, letus know. We will listen.

QCounty commissioners have recentlyopened communication with the

Alexandria City Council. What would youcontribute to this partnership?

ACooperation with the city of Alexandriaon various boards would naturally save

money, and we are beginning a dialog withthe council. If we don’t start cooperating withour various units of local government, citiesand townships, and neighboring counties, Ican see the state of Minnesota doing it for us,and that we do not need. Let’s keep it local.

PAUL C. ANDERSONDistrict 4 (Incumbent)




QPlease list your back-ground and specific

qualifications for this posi-tion.

AI was born and raised inAlexandria in Douglas

County. I graduated from Jef-ferson High School. I havebeen a lifelong member ofZion Lutheran Church whereI was baptized, confirmedand married. I served onmany committees such asBoard of Lay Ministry, chair-man of the Board of Educa-tion, chairman of the100-year anniversary cele-bration. I sing in the choirand with the praise worshipteam.

I attended AlexandriaTechnical College and grad-uated with a degree in salesand marketing. I have beenmarried to my wife, Dawn,for 40 years. We have twodaughters, three grandsonsand a step-granddaughter.

The majority of my profes-sional life was spent in busi-ness with my parents andbrother at Olson Decorating,both in retail and contract-ing.

The ability to listen to oth-ers and not make snap deci-sions is one of my best traits.I make sure that I remain ac-cessible, representing notonly the people of District 5but the entire county. I amvery much a “people person”and do not micro-manage.

Currently, I am entrustedby my colleagues as chair-person of Pope Douglas SolidWaste, Rainbow Rider, treas-urer of West Central Com-munity Actions andLakeland Mental Health,past chairperson of the Hos-pital Board and CountyBoard and I serve as chair-person of the Compliance,Security and Oversight Com-mittee for Prime West. I havealso worked on bringing fivecounties together to formHorizon Public Health, astart to bringing our countiestogether into greater fiscalresponsibility.

QWhat do you view asthe biggest challenge

facing the county right nowand how would you dealwith it?

AThere are always differ-ent challenges every day

such as: keeping our countya good, clean place that peo-ple want to live and work in,keeping our tax levy low andyet provide for the needs ofour county and its residents.

Another important chal-lenge not only for us butother counties is the combin-ing of services. The more we

do together with other coun-ties becomes a plus as far asfiscal responsibility and de-livery of services. The statehas made some indicationsthey would like the countiesto combine and the more wedo now will help us to partnerwith the counties we knowwill work together.

QWould you say the cur-rent board has shown

commitment and followthrough on current proj-ects, for example the lawenforcement and servicescenter and courtroom re-model? What would yourstrategy be to furtherprogress?

AWe have followedthrough on some projects

such as law enforcement andservices center, etc., not al-ways the way I thought best,but yet they are done. Weneed to remodel our currentcourtroom facilities soon! Wehave to do these things, andwhen they are done, we needto maintain these buildingscontinuously, which will helpus keep our facilities to serveus longer!

QIs there anything morethe county can do to

combat aquatic invasivespecies, such as zebra mus-sels? Share other thoughtsabout protecting waterquality.

AWe, as a board along withthe lake associations and

some very committed con-stituents, have actually beenahead of the game with ourwork on zebra mussels, try-ing to find different ways oferadicating these and otherinvasive species fromspreading any farther intoour lakes. We need to keepworking locally along withthe DNR and the state to findand use new ideas to furtherkeep our lakes as clean andpristine as possible.

County commissionershave recently opened

communication with theAlexandria City Council.What would you contributeto this partnership?

AOpen communication isvery important. This is

something I have been work-ing on and am glad to seehappening. Having grown upin Alexandria, I can honestlysay I have the ability and vi-sion of the importance of thecontinued open communica-tion, not only with Alexandriabut all the towns of DouglasCounty.

DAN OLSONDistrict 5 (Incumbent)

QPlease list your back-ground and specific qualifi-

cations for this position.

AI have been an employee, par-ent, volunteer, and concerned

citizen of Douglas County for 30years. I received an associate’sdegree in marketing sales man-agement from Alexandria Tech-nical and Community College anda bachelor’s degree in businessmanagement from SouthwestMinnesota State University.

Through these experiences Ilearned to scrutinize budgets andcame to understand the value ofbuilding relationships through ef-fective communication skillssuch as listening and negotiating.I was also employed at theAlexandria Lakes Area Chamberof Commerce where I built strongrelationships with local smallbusinesses and served on theBoard of Trustees for the Min-nesota State Colleges and Uni-versity System.

Additionally, I worked at Dou-glas County Hospital and under-stand the challenges facinghospital and county-level employ-ees. Finally, at Knute Nelson Ilearned how to advocate for sen-iors and other vulnerable groups.

In summary, I have a sense ofhumor, an open mind, a clear vi-sion of where county governmentshould go, and Douglas Countyresidents can count on me to ad-vocate on their behalf.

QWhat do you view as thebiggest challenge facing

the county right now and howwould you deal with it?

AThe demographic forecast forour community is that by

2030, those older than 65 will in-crease by 70 percent and those 55or older will double.

Because of likely state govern-ment deficits and the increasingservice needs of an aging popula-tion in Douglas County, we couldhave fewer resources to meetthese increasing demands. Thiswill lead to tightened budgets,even if we raise additional rev-enues and reduce or eliminatesome services.

Because we rely so much onpublic health nurses to fulfill careplans, it is essential that we haveadequate resources, publichealth nurses and the capacity tomanage these growing case-loads. In order to serve a growingsenior population we need tomaintain a vibrant aging servicesnetwork at the county levelthrough funding of lower-cost,non-medical services and sup-ports so seniors wishing to stay intheir homes can remain inde-pendent.

We need to maintain a coordi-nated and cost-effective systemof home and community-basedservices that will help seniorsstay healthy and in their homes. I

would encourage an increase ingrant funding to fund program-ming and aggressively advocatefor funding in rural areas.

QWould you say the currentboard has shown commit-

ment and follow through oncurrent projects, for examplethe law enforcement and serv-ices center and courtroom re-model? What would yourstrategy be to furtherprogress?

AThe decision has been made,and it is time to move past the

jail/law enforcement facility issueand look to the future of servicedelivery across departments andcounty wide.

My strategy for furtherprogress toward improvementsin local government would be toengage voters and citizen groupsto participate in the decisionmaking process. The residents inDouglas County are willing to ac-cept changes in how services aredelivered but they will want to re-main informed of why changes orredesign are needed, what isbeing changed and how they willbe impacted. People are willing toparticipate if they are invited tothe table and if they see that theirconcerns or ideas are seriouslyconsidered.

With limited resources avail-able, we need to be thinkingabout how to redesign our serv-ice delivery and overcome thebarriers to doing so. We need toencourage innovation and re-ward cost saving ideas. I believefirmly in the fundamental impor-tance of strong, efficient and ef-fective local government, so I willwork diligently with departmentheads to educate the public onthe services provided to citizensin Douglas County as well as thechallenges we face in this tougheconomy.


aquatic invasive species, suchas zebra mussels? Share otherthoughts about protectingwater quality.

AOur lakes are an essential in-gredient to our success in

Douglas County. The DouglasCounty Lakes Association has re-ceived DNR grant funding for in-spections. They conducted asurvey on impact, which can befound on their website atwww.dcla.org.

We need to continue partner-ships with the Douglas CountyLakes Association and the DNR.They are the experts we need torely on to explore the problemand make recommendations toprotect our lakes.

The DCLA recommends pro-hibiting transport by enforcingdecontamination of boats andtrailers, enforcing existing Min-

nesota law, and eradication withZequanox, an environmentallyfriendly bio pesticide. The LakesAssociation has requested fundsfrom the Legacy Act to combatthe zebra mussel problem withinspection, education, and en-forcement and they urged legis-lators to provide the DNR withthe tools they need to halt thespread as well.

The Douglas County Board ofCommissioners supports theMinnesota Senate Action, and theDouglas County Lakes Associa-tion recommended the endorse-ment of a 2011 watercraft seasonpilot eradication effort on twoacres of Lake Darling.

The work is ongoing, but I feelconfident that the DouglasCounty Lakes Association andthe DNR will provide the com-missioners with the most up-to-date information on water qualityissues while keeping the citizensof Douglas County informed andour lakes and waterways ashealthy as possible.

QCounty commissionershave recently opened com-

munication with the AlexandriaCity Council. What would youcontribute to this partnership?

AI have been attending boththe Alexandria City Council

meetings and the DouglasCounty Commissioner meetings,and I have been impressed withthe camaraderie and the willing-ness of both entities to attendeach other’s meetings.

As resources become scarcer,it is critical to have everyone atthe table. My chamber work pro-vided a great conduit for collabo-ration. Oftentimes I would bringdifferent business sectors to-gether for a common communitygoal. For example, after attend-ing a lunch and learn hosted bythe chamber facilitated by a Min-nesota epidemiologist about dis-aster preparedness for diseaseepidemics and other communitydisasters, I learned that one ofthe first steps in disaster pre-paredness is to know who the de-cision makers are in acommunity.

Crossing traditional organiza-tional lines is a valuable tool tobreak down barriers to commu-nication. I believe it is a win-winfor state, county, city, and busi-ness leaders to put this into prac-tice. It is time to set aside anyterritorial notions and work to-gether to find a better and moreefficient way to deliver services.

The state of Minnesota is en-couraging counties to implementredesign of services to improveoutcomes. We are currently par-ticipating in some great partner-ships across jurisdictional lines,and we need to encourage de-partment heads to continue im-proving processes by looking atother best practices.

CAROL WENNERDistrict 5


The Change we Need.The Voice We Deserve.

Vote Bob Cunniff for State House 8B

Paid for by Cunniff for State House, PO Box 182, Carlos, MN 56319 R001

8022

49

FOR POSITIVE LEADERSHIP

Paid for by Mark R. Pederson on his own behalf.

R001

8032

54

Mark R. Pederson forMayor of Alexandria

I would proudly and responsibly serve the people of Alexandria. I humbly ask for your support and vote in

November.

� Lifelong resident of Alexandria� Graduate of Jefferson High School� Married to Jan (Raap) 33 years. Three

grown children and three grandchildren� Licensed contractor and independent

business man for over 30 years� Past exalted ruler and past trustee at

Alexandria Elks Lodge 1685� Past member Alexandria Economic

Development board from inception - 2006� Lifelong member St. Mary’s Church� Member Knights of Columbus, Eagles,

Elks, Viking Sportsman, life member NRA, life member MN Deer Hunters

2012 douglas county voter's guide from the alexandria echo press

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