Voter's Guide 2018

Friday, October 26, 2018 Echo Press C1

VOTER’S GUIDE 2018

ELECTION DAY

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

INDEX TO ELECTION RACES Alexandria City Council Ward 2........................ C2 Douglas County Commissioner District 2........C3 Douglas County Commissioner District 4........C4 Douglas County Commissioner District 5....... C5

State Representative District 8B....................... C6 State Representative District 12A......................C7 State Representative District 12B..................... C8

Are you ready to vote?

Here’s help

By Al Edenloff

aedenloff@echopress.com

After all the campaigning, candidate forums, advertising and debates, the 2018 election is just a few days away.

Do you know who you will be voting for on Tuesday, Nov. 6?

This Voter’s Guide can help.

The Echo Press sent questionnaires for candidates running in several local contested races involving Douglas County voters.

Political races that are highlighted in this Voters’ Guide include: Alexandria City Council Ward 2 – Bob Kuhlman (incumbent), Roger Thalman.

(In Ward 4, Michael T. Sayler filed to run against incumbent Dave Benson but he later withdrew from the race.

It was too late, however, for the county auditor’s office to remove Sayler’s name from the ballot.)

Douglas County Board of Commissioners District 2 – Judy Backhaus, Tim Kalina.

District 4 – Charlie Meyer (incumbent), Mike Woods.

District 5 – Owen Miller (incumbent), Heather Larson.

State Representative District 8B – Mary Franson, R (incumbent), Gail Kulp, DFL. District 12A – Jeff Backer, R (incumbent), Murray Smart, DFL. District 12B – Paul Anderson, R (incumbent), Ben Schirmers, DFL.

Other local races

Depending on where you live, many other local races may be on your ballot. Here’s a look at contested or write-in races for mayor, city council, township and school districts in Douglas County.

(This list only includes contested races or those that will be decided through write-ins. The Alexandria School Board, for example, has four positions up for election but only the incumbents filed. Also, the county positions for sheriff, recorder, auditor/treasurer and attorney are not contested this election.)

Brandon mayor – Roger Campbell and Kevin Challes.

Brandon City Council, two positions – only one candidate filed, Scott Pohlman.

Brandon Township, supervisor Seat A – Gene Fynboh and Bryan Meichsner.

Carlos City Council, two positions – Doreley Glisson, Teresa Zwieg and Ronna Berghoff.

Evansville mayor – Darren “Tubby” Henrichs, Calvin Lundeen and Monica Olson.

Evansville City Council, two positions – Julie Aasness, Deb Berry, Trista Jacobson, Richard Novotny, Jamie Okerlund and Mary Thorstad.

Forada mayor – no one filed.

Garfield City Council, two positions – Ryan Holverson, Wanda Swenson and Trent Ziegelman.

Kensington City Council, special election – Emmy Maheux (Leverson) and Lana Rau. Miltona City Council, two positions – Brian Carpenter, David Carter and Mickey Lint.

Miltona Township treasurer – no one filed.

Osakis mayor – Keith “Kip” Emerson and Paul Hartmann.

Osakis City Council, two positions – Randy Anderson, Laura Backes, Alan Larson, Joseph Nathe and James Snyder.

Brandon/Evansville School Board, three positions – Jana Anderson, David Berry, Randy Bettermann, Rebecca Boesl, Amanda Johnson, Diane Richter, Ben Rusch, Jaci Stepan,

YOU KNOW MARY

Katherine VanderWyst and Rachel Wagner.

Osakis School Board, three positions – Fran Breiter, Greg Faber, Chris George, Dirk Hagedon, Chad Hagen and Becky Hensley.

Minnewaska School Board, four positions – Denise Gades Dougherty, Nick Gugisberg, Ted Reichmann, Sadie Schlief, Wes Tessman, Susan VanDyke and Justin Zavadil. Also one special election for one seat – Chad Christianson, Judd Kuehne and Bobbi Jo Matt.

Parkers Prairie School Board, four positions – Nancy Euteneuer, Christy Hart, Steve Inwards, Judith Moeller, Sheryl Myers and Lyle Oeltjenbruns.

Statewide offices

In addition to local races, Douglas County voters will have a hand in deciding statewide positions and U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives races: U.S. Senator: Jim Newberger-R, Amy Klobuchar-DFL, Dennis Schuller-Legal Marijuana Now and Paula M Overby-Minnesota Green Party.

U.S. Senator, special election, twoyear term: Karin Housley-R, Tina Smith-DFL, Sarah Wellington-Legal Marijuana Now and Jerry Trooien-unaffiliated.

U.S. Representative, District 7: Collin Peterson-DFL and Dave Hughes-R. Governor/Lieutenant Governor: Jeff Johnson and Donna Bergstrom-R; Tim Walz and Peggy Flanagan-DFL; Chris Wright and Judith Schwartzbacker-Grassroots – Legalize Cannabis; and Josh Welter and Mary O’Connor-Libertarian.

Secretary of State: John Howe-R, Steve Simon-DFL and William Denney-Independence.

State Auditor: Pam Myhra-R, Julie Blaha-DFL, Michael Ford-Legal Marijuana Now and Chris Dock-Libertarian Party.

Attorney General: Doug Wardlow-R, Keith Ellison-DFL and Noah M. Johnson-Grassroots – Legalize Cannabis.

Judicial positions

There are also several judicial positions on the ballot. Only two are contested: Minnesota Supreme Court Associate Justice 2 – Michelle MacDonald and Margaret Chutich (incumbent).

Minnesota Court of Appeals Judge 2 – Anthony Brown and Lucinda Jesson (incumbent).

Sample ballot

To see your sample ballot, go to the website, www.mnvotes.org and click on the link, “View my sample ballot.” Enter your zip code and address.

SAMPLE BALLOT 11

State General Election Ballot Douglas County, Minnesota November 6, 2018

Official Ballot

Federal Offices

U.S. Senator For term expiring January 3, 2025 Vote for One

Dennis Schuller

January 3, 2025

Chris Dock

Paula M Overby

January 3, 2025

Democratic-Farmer-Labor

Legal Marijuana Now

Vote for One

Rodney Froemming

Democratic-Farmer-Labor

Legal Marijuana Now

Libertarian Party write-in, if any

School District Offices

40

43

)

Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor District 3

Vote for One

Julie Blaha

Michael Ford

this (

County Offices

State Auditor

Republican

January 3, 2025 January 3, 2025

Minnesota Green Party

41

State Offices Pam Myhra

Jim Newberger Amy Klobuchar

Republican

42

Judge _____ Judge _____

Instructions to Voters:

To vote, completely fill in the oval(s) next to your choice(s) like

21

write-in, if any

School Board Member Position 2 Independent School District No. 206 (Alexandria)

Attorney General

write-in, if any

SAMPLE BALLOT Vote for One Sta te Gene Douglas ral Election Ballo Coun t Novembe ty, Minnesota r 6, 2018 To vote, com pletely fill Instructions to Vote in

Vote for One

Doug Wardlow

U.S. Senator Special Election for term expiring January 3, 2021

Republican

Keith Ellison

Republican

Tina Smith

Democratic-Farmer-Labor

Noah M. Johnson

January 3, 2021

January 3, 2021 January 3, 2021

Legal Marijuana Now

Grassroots - Legalize Cannabis

January 3, 2021

Sarah Wellington Jerry Trooien Unaffiliated

Alan Zeithamer

Democratic-Farmer-Labor

Vote for One

Karin Housley

Vote for One

Heather A. Larson

U.S. Representative District 7

54

write-in, if any

write-in, if any

County Auditor - Treasurer Vote for One

Charlene (Char) Rosenow

like this (

)

Judicial Offi ces 7th Distric t Court

Judg 1 Vote foreOne Kris H. IncumbentDavick-Halfen

write-in, if any

Associate School Board MemberJusti ce 2 4 Position - Supreme Vote for One Court Independent School MargaretDistrict Incumbent Chutich No. 206 (Alexandria) Vote for One Michelle MacD onald Sandy Susag

Republican

Democratic-Farmer-Labor

choice(s)

Owen Miller

Vote for One

Dave Hughes Collin C. Peterson

rs:

next to your

School Board MemberJud Position icia3 Independent School District l Offices Supreme No. 206 (Alexandria) Court Vote forChie One f Justice Supr Vote for Oneeme Cour t Lorie Skjer Dean R Anderson Incumbent ven Gildea

County Offices County Commissioner District 5

write-in, if any

the oval(s)

write-in, if any

write-in, if any

write-in, if any

Timothy

Judg

5 Vote foreOne

Incumbent M.

Churchwe ll

write-in, if any

State Offices State Representative District 8B

write-in, if any

write-in, if any

Republican

Vote for One

Mary Skillings

Robert Cunniff write-in, if any Associate Justi

write-in, if any

County Sheriff

write-in, if any

Vote for One Team

Gail T.

Incumbent

ce 5

ig

Judge 7

Court

Vote for One Mary B. Incumbent Mahler

write-in, if any

Republican

write-in, if any

Tim Walz and Peggy Flanagan

write-in, if any

Chris Wright and Judith Schwartzbacker

Chad Larson

write-in, if any

Court of Appeals

County Attorney

Democratic-Farmer-Labor

Judge 2

Vote for One

Lucinda

Anthony L.

Josh Welter and Mary O'Connor

Matthew

- Cour

of Appeals Vote for tOne

Incumbent Ellen

Grassroots - Legalize Cannabis

Incumbent

Jesson

write-in, if any

Gretchen

write-in, if any

Judge 4

Vote for One

Secretary of State

Tracy

Paul Barsness

Incumbent

- Cour

of Appeals Vote for tOne

Republican

Democratic-Farmer-Labor

D. Thilmony

write-in, if any

John Howe

Steve Simon

Judg

16 Vote foreOne

Smith Incumbent

Vote for One

William Denney

Judg 10 Vote foreOne M. Quinn

Brown write-in, if any

Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor District 1 write-in, if any

Judg

6 Vote foreOne

Kulick Incumbent

write-in, if any

- Supreme Vote for One

Anne McKe

Vote for One

Troy Wolbersen

Jeff Johnson and Donna Bergstrom

Libertarian

write-in, if any

Justice 1

Vote for One

Democratic-Farmer-Labor

Governor and Lieutenant Governor

Associate

- Supreme Vote Court Barry Ande for One rson School BoardIncum Member bent Position 5 Independent School District No. 206 (Alexandria)

County Recorder

Vote for One

Mary Franson Gail Kulp

write-in, if any

write-in, if any

Judge 17

Vote for One Sharon IncumbentGrewell Bens on

write-in, if any

Judge 6 - Cour of Appeals Vote for tOne Renee Worke

Independence

L. Incumbent

write-in, if any

write-in, if any

Vote front and back of ballot Alexandria W3

0015

write-in, if any

Judge 7 Cour ofSpl:01 Typ:01- Seq:0004 Appeals Vote for tOne Jill Flask Halbrooks

Barbara

Judg

19 Vote foreOne

Incumbent R.

Hanson

Incumbent amp

write-in, if any

William

write-in, if any

Judge 12

- Court of

Vote Diane Bratv for One old Incumbent

IncumbentJ.

Judge 20

Vote for One

Cashman

Appeals write-in, if any

Judg Vote e 29 Shan C. Wangfor One

write-in, if any

Judge 14 James

B. Incumbent

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Incumbent

t of Vote for One Florey

Appeals write-in, if any

write-in, if any

Alexandria W3

Vote fron t and back 0015

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Spl:01

See sample ballots on pages B6 & B7

Tested. Trusted.

HONORED TO BE YOUR REPRESENTATIVE

001776403r1

• Proud Pro-Life advocate at the Capitol • Protector of the 2nd Amendment and NRA member • Championing tax relief for Minnesotans • Exposing fraudulent spending of your tax dollars

Prepared and Paid for by Team Franson. 2740 Le Homme Dieu Heights NE, Alexandria, MN 56308

Minnesota House of Representatives District 8B

TeamFranson.com

Voter’s Guide 2018

C2 Friday, October 26, 2018

ALEXANDRIA CITY use instead of scheduled recharging.

The public could be educated better on this. We have been adding catch basins in the storm sewers As of today, I have to help reduce been married to my wife chemical runoff.

Janice for 27 years. I served Retention ponds in the Navy four years acare vital in helptive and 8 years reserves. I ing with this also bought the Viking Motel to filter runoff beAnd Viking Apts. in 1986 BOB KUHLMAN fore going into and then sold the motel in City Council Ward 2 the lakes. We 1996. We also own Allure have added some Tan & Spa. I am the current City and are always watchCouncil member for Ward 2 in Alexandria. I ing if additional ponds are needed. have served on the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce on the Marketing and Visitor’s List two specific ideas you Guide committees to mention a few. Preshave for reducing the ently, I am serving on the Lakes Area Reccity’s budget or increasing reation Board, budget, Explore Alexandria, revenue. personnel and the Alexandria Liquor Commission committees.

We need to minimize opening new loans for projects and work on paying off What do you feel is the bigcurrent loans so the city can learn to save gest challenge facing the for projects. For example, as past debts city of Alexandria and how are paid off, money could be added to the would you address it? funding designated for usage on roads and capital improvement. This would avoid We need to fix many of the roads in future loans on many projects. our city, including Ward 2. Some of these Many feel that adding to our sales tax roads need to be totally torn out and re- would increase revenue. I am not in favor done. The cost for doing this is the chal- of this unless it excludes high ticket items, lenge; we need to do them without going such as any purchase for one item over a into further debt and taking out loans that certain dollar value. would increase our budget and taxes. We This would exclude things like lawn mowalso need to update our City Charter, which ers, trailers, boats, cars, etc. are the rules our city council follows. If the council cannot agree on any updates, they Why should residents vote should be put to a public vote. for you instead of your op-

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

I would be in favor of having fishing contests to reduce the carp population in the lakes that have a phosphorous problem. This problem is made worse by bottom feeding fish that stir up the silt which stores phosphorous. Also, we need to address the issue of water softener discharge, chemicals such as, weed killers and fertilizers spread on lawns which increase phosphorous.

It is important to make sure water softeners are working properly with on-demand

ponent?

I am always open to input from anyone on an issue, whether or not they live in the city. Property owners in the city should have a right to their opinion, regardless of where they live. They do pay property taxes in our city.

I believe being approachable is a very necessary quality. Everyone should always be heard and talk openly on issues that need attention. Decisions should not be made before coming to the table. All ideas need to be heard at that time before making a final decision.

Here’s how to vote with absentee ballot Absentee ballots are available 45 days prior to the State Primary and State General Elections. A completed and signed absentee ballot application must be received before a ballot can be issued to a voter. Absentee ballots must be returned to the county auditor no later than 3 p.m. on Election Day in order to be counted.

To apply online, go to the website, www.mnvotes. org. To apply and vote in person, the Douglas County Auditor’s Office is located on the first floor of the Douglas County Courthouse building located on the corner of Seventh Avenue and Douglas Street in Alexandria.

Absentee voting hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Saturday prior to Election Day, Nov. 6. 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday prior to Election Day,Nov. 6.

To apply and vote by mail, contact the Douglas County Auditor’s Office at 320762-3077 if you want an absentee ballot application mailed to you. An absentee ballot application can also be obtained online at www.mnvotes.org or you may submit your own written request as long as it contains the following required information:  Voter’s name and residential address.  The address where the ballot should be sent.

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

I would appreciate your vote on November 6!

What are your ideas for protecting and/or improving water quality on local lakes?

What do you feel is the biggest challenge facing the city of Alexandria and how would you address it?

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

I don’t own a business or rental property. My position on issues will always be what is best for the residents and the city overall. I will seek out and listen to views of residents, the business community and other interested parties on issues before making sound, fact-based decisions. While I believe in sensible, controlled spending, I also believe it is my responsibility to make decisions keeping in mind what the next generation in our city will need.

I consider public service a privilege and will work hard to help our city prosper.

Oath stating that the information contained on the form is accurate, that the voter is applying on their own behalf, and that the voter is signing the oath under penalty of perjury. Voter’s own signature. The date the voter signed the application.

001784118r1

for District 2 County Commissioner

• I support the careful monitoring of our tax dollars.

• I support regulations on Vacation Rental homes.

• I support the development of a long term plan for our lakes.

• I support the respectful treatment of our county employees.

• I support collaborating with other counties to save our tax dollars on duplicated administrative costs.

form of loans or grants to homeowners and for profit and non-profit housing developers.

My promotion to a supervisory position with a telephone Education is an imservice company led ROGER THALMAN portant first step in this to a move by our City Council Ward 2 process. Fertilizer runfamily to Alexandria off, erosion, salt disnearly 40 years ago.

My wife, Carol, and I are proud of the charge from water softeners into floor strong work ethic we have modeled to our drains, road salt and drainage ditches all children, which is evident in both our potentially can add pollutants to our lakes. daughter and son. Both graduated college Lake Management Best Practices provides after their schooling in Alexandria. Carol a brief, reliable and readable publication and I are devoted grandparents to two for landowners looking for lake management information. boys.

Having an Aquatic Invasive Species plan While enrolled in the electronics program at Dunwoody Institute, a job opportunity is important and grant money can be appresented itself in the career path I want- plied for to assist in establishing this proed. I was hired for an entry-level position in gram.

Another way is having an Adaptive Lake the telephone industry. I always have been a self-starter and took advantage of edu- Water Management Plan presently being cation reimbursement offered by my em- implemented in a partnership between ployer. I earned a certificate in Electronic Alexandria Lake Area Sanitary District and & Computer Engineering Technology from the city to bring Lakes Winona, Henry and Grantham College of Engineering and a di- Agnes from impaired to clean water state.

Finger pointing and blame may be satploma in Electronic Communications from isfying but are rarely effective in solving Cleveland Institute of Electronics.

I retired after 45 years with that same problems. Partnering and working togethcompany. During my employment, super- er to develop a plan does generate results. vised as many as 21 employees in commu- Partnership and collaboration among all nities across greater Minnesota. Skills de- affected local government agencies and veloped and training: managing expenses various lake associations needs to happen within budget, team building, customer if we really take water quality seriously. service, speakers bureau, marketing and List two specific ideas you sales, and employee hiring, supervision and development. All abilities necessary have for reducing the to be an effective and contributing councity’s budget or increasing cilperson. revenue.

I was appointed to an open City Council position and served 2013 and 2014. During Make sure each department has a this time, I served on: Budget Committee, five-year plan and that their budget is idenLegislative Committee, Personnel Com- tifiable – not just a “what if we had the mittee and Liquor Commission. Served on money.” Many times, I have seen where township board of supervisors from 2001 departments or committees in establishing to 2011 – emphasis on budgeting and a budget look at last year and then add a street maintenance. percentage more for the following year inBy appointment, I currently serve on stead of reviewing line items to see if it is these city entities: Charter Commission, still needed.

Housing and Redevelopment Authority Another method is to bring all departand Planning Commission. Also serve as ment heads together during the budget city representative on Alexandria Lake process, then as a team, see where items Area Sanitary District Board of Directors should be added, where items could be and currently am its chairperson. I feel I cut and moved out to the following year. am very well versed in the operation of the This is where long-range planning has an city. important role.

As a resident of the community, I have Monitoring TIF and tax abatement expifocused on volunteering and leadership. ration is helpful in determining the year tax Currently serve on Building Committee – revenue from these sources will increase.

First Lutheran Church, which is construct- Multi-year budgeting can plan for this reving a $9 million new building. Have served enue increase. Large expenditures might on various church committees/boards and be able to defer to future years. Short- and elected as president twice. Graduate of long-term budgeting a sound practice in Leadership Alexandria. Serve currently on controlling budgets. board of Love Inc.

Maintaining and improving our infrastructure, roads, parks, green space, walking paths, bike paths and a vibrant downtown are all big concerns. It makes good sense that these issues be addressed in  The election(s) for which the request is long-range planning. made.

Homelessness – partnering with  The voter’s date of birth and at least non-profit agencies and churches is esone of the following: sential to deal with this difficult issue.

• The voter’s MN driver’s license Lack of workforce housing – work with number. other local agencies. Seek funding for the • MN state ID number. workforce housing needs of the city in the • The last four digits of the voter’s Social Security number or • A statement that the voter does not have any of these.

JUDY BACKHAUS

My goal is to listen and serve the people of our county so that we continue to live in a great place to work and play!

City Council Ward 2

Track your absentee ballot status by using the “Absentee Status Lookup” link on the website, www. mnvotes.org.

Military and overseas voters may also by absentee ballot. More information can be found on the Minnesota Secretary of State Military/Overseas Voting Page at www.mnvotes.org.

Source: Douglas County Auditor’s Office.

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What are your ideas for protecting and/or improving water quality on local lakes?

Echo Press

Echo Press

Voter’s Guide 2018

DOUGLAS COUNTY

What is your long-range plan for Douglas County and how do you propose to implement it for protecting natural resources, parks and public lands?

Unfortunately, the general public is not aware of the current status of our lakes and natural resources in Douglas County, with many of our lakes being on an endangered list. Our local economy and tax valuations are directly impacted by the quality of our environment, so this needs to be an issue of high priority in our county.

My plan would be to bring together a group of community citizens that are knowledgeable in the areas of natural resources, invasive species, watersheds, drain off, etc. and they would build a comprehensive plan for our county. The plan would span a time period of a minimum of 10 years and would be revisited on a regular basis, with changes and modifications occurring due to envi-

Commissioner District 2

port the recent regulations that the County Board has passed and will be implemented on October 1, 2018. The new guidelines primarily protect our natural resources, the neighbors, and the safety of the renters. I strongly support the limitation of guests based on bedrooms, the parking and noise guidelines in order not to negatively impact neighbors and the overall monitoring that includes neighbors having an owner/ property manager to contact immediately if there are issues.

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

My primary background is in education, serving as a teacher, coach, elementary principal and Human Resource director, all in the Alexandria Public Schools over a period of 34 years. I retired three years ago.

I have degrees in teaching, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership and a specialist degree in superintendency.

For over 30 years we have owned and managed a variety of properties, so I am familiar with many of the regulations and guidelines associated with Land and Resources in our county. I also work with my husband, Lee, at our Backhaus Appraisals business of residential appraising.

I have served on various boards, including the United Way, the Alexandria Education Foundation, the Alexandria Youth Baseball Association, Women United for Literacy and the Mental Health Collaborative Board.

I have served in leadership positions on some of these boards.

I have been married to Lee for 35 years and we have two grown children living in Alexandria.

JUDY BACKHAUS

Commissioner District 2 ronmental, economic or unknown changes relevant to our local area.

The comprehensive plan would also outline the cost factor of implementation and ongoing costs in order for our county to act in a preventative versus reactive manner, as reacting to negative environmental issues is much more costly. To cover these costs, I would not propose that the financial burden be placed on the local property owners, but instead the county would work through the process of implementing a half cent sales tax to lodging, entertainment and food and beverages, so that the majority of the tax impact is passed on to the tourists enjoying our natural environment. This type of a tax does require a vote by the taxpayers and requires an anticipated expiration date.

What are your thoughts on Vacation Rental By Owners (VRBO) and Douglas County’s attempt to regulate such property? Too strict? Not strict enough?

Vacation Rental Home By Owners are popular worldwide. As a county, we highly promote visitors/tourists to enjoy our lakes area and this has a significant impact on our local economy with almost every business being positively impacted by our tourism industry. For these reasons, I do not see VRBOs going away.

However, I do believe that they need to be monitored and regulated. I fully sup-

List two specific ideas for reducing the county’s budget or increasing revenue.

First, I would work on more collaborative issues between counties. Horizon Public Health is a prime example of saving tax dollars when five counties collaborate to share costs, most of which are at the administrative level. This initiative did not cut people from positions, but allowed for positions to be eliminated or restructured through the attrition process. Lots of dollars have been saved due to the reduction of duplicated services, so this is a process that should be looked at for other areas across the county.

Second, as stated in my response to question #2, I would work to implement a half cent sales tax to lodging, entertainment and food and beverage industries that will be paid in large part by tourists/visitors to our area with the funds going to protect our natural resources, lakes and parks.

The positive financial impact would occur in a minimum of two ways: Free up the current costs to the county, which exceed $200,000.

Assure that property values maintain and grow in value, benefitting local property owners.

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

My background as an educational leader put me in many situations of working cooperatively with a va-

neighboring individuals to the properties that are being rented. Many of the septic systems are not designed to handle the amount of people that are staying at these properties as these are normally designed as single family homes. There is also a problem with parking on property not owned by the I have lived in Douglas County person renting out the home. I believe my entire life. I am married, and have that there should be guidelines to be three daughters, two son- in-laws followed by the owners of the rental and five grandchildren. All of which properties in Douglas County. VRBOs live in Douglas County. My girls were have a place here, as we are a growing active members of the Lake Mary community and they bring in revenue Troopers 4-H club growing up. 4-H is to help stimulate our economy. It comes a great organization that teaches down to having a workable situation for our youth excellent leadership skills, all involved, without causing a hardship TIM KALINA and now my grandson is a 4-H memor a complicated situation affecting the Commissioner District 2 ber. My grandson, Brock, has also neighboring homes. VRBOs and Airbjoined 4H. I have been employed in nbs (similar company offering vacation highway maintenance with Douglas rentals) could be positive in our community if done correctCounty Public Works for the past 21 years. I have also been ly. farming full time on my farm since 1979. I have also served as a supervisor for the Lake Mary Township from 2001List two specific ideas for reducing the 2004, where I was the chairman and general contractor for county’s budget or increasing revenue. the construction of the new town hall. Previous to working for the county, I was employed by Ferguson Brothers Excavating, where I was a licensed onsite sewer installer and We need accountability back into local government heavy equipment operator. Over the years, I have taken at the county level in regards to the budget. In the past, numerous courses such as OSHA Competent Person better decisions could have been made by county departTraining, Asphalt Pavement Maintenance Training, and ment heads and commissioners with where the taxpayer Farm and Business Management. I have a mechanical money is being spent. It could be done much more effibackground as I have my own repair shop where I do ciently, and less costly. This would leave more funds for equipment maintenance and repairs for myself and others. other expenditures that the county needs. We need to live I have over 40 years of knowledge and experience regard- within our means, not our wants. ing farm and heavy equipment purchasing.

Another way to reduce the county’s budget would be to work with neighboring counties to purchase and share What is your long-range plan for Doug- equipment that is not being used daily. For example, take las County and how do you propose to a costly investment such as a paver. On average, this piece implement it for protecting natural re- of equipment is used about two months of the year. This expenditure could be purchased jointly between counties, sources, parks and public lands? versus each county leasing a paver for those two months.

In the long run, we would have spent less of our county I feel that we need to protect our lakes, rivers and funds versus leasing for multiple years. The county doesn’t aquifers by using new water treatment technology that always need to purchase new equipment when there is would greatly decrease the chances for contamination of used equipment with low hours or equipment that has these resources. Our water treatment facility is running been leased and is now for sale, which would serve the near capacity and needs to be upgraded so more contam- same purpose at a reduced cost. The same goes for vehiinants can be removed before being discharged into Lake cles that we are now leasing at the county.

Winona.

Why should residents vote for you inInvasive species are another problem that we have in our lakes and need to be controlled to preserve our natural restead of your opponent? sources and keep our lakes usable. This is not going to be an easy fix and research needs to be done so that it can be I am skilled at approaching any situation with an open accomplished in the most cost effective way. This would mind and viewing any problem from multiple angles to deeliminate some of our water quality issues. termine the best execution for the task at hand. I can recDouglas County now has five parks, and the result has ognize problem areas and develop a workable solution been an extensive amount of money being contributed to that others cannot easily recognize. I am a natural born the enhancements of the parks. Some money came from leader. I have many years of experience in the leadership grants, and some was donated but the taxpayers still paid role from directing hired hands on my farm, to working as part of the costs for the Interpretive Center in Kensington general contractor on the Lake Mary Town Hall building Park. Lake Brophy Park is a new park that is being built project, to working on road maintenance projects for from the ground up. At this time, I don’t feel the need to Douglas County Public Works, to supervising coworkers invest more money into more parks due to the increased on sewer and directional boring projects when I was emmaintenance cost, but rather into upgrading wastewater ployed at Ferguson Brothers Excavating. treatment to decrease contamination of our lakes and I have experience with how roads are built and mainstreams. tained, purchasing equipment, budgeting, and an extensive knowledge of sewer systems which would aid me well What are your thoughts on Vacation in a position as a County Commissioner. I am a hard workRental By Owners (VRBO) and Douglas ing individual who strives to do what is right and weigh County’s attempt to regulate such out the options prior to making a final decision that affects other people. I look at a County Commissioner as being a property? Too strict? Not strict enough? financial advisor for the taxpayer, making sure their money is giving them the best return on their investment without I understand the implications that go along with VRraising taxes.

BOs in regards to the sewer system and how it affects the

Please list your background and qualifications for the position.

(Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

Friday, October 26, 2018 C3

riety of individuals and groups. I often lead committees related to difficult issues in order to develop understanding, listen to concerns and come to solutions that were acceptable to everyone. I am a person who believes in collecting data, listening to all sides of an issue, and having a process in place that is equitable to all parties involved.

With the various employee concerns/ issues and low morale occurring within Douglas County groups, I believe that my background and knowledge as a Human Resource Director will be an asset in this position. I have negotiated with union and non-union groups, I know the legal aspects of working through employee issues and I value finding acceptable solutions for both management and staff.

I have also been involved in property ownership and management for over 30 years, as well as working with my husband in his appraisal business, so I understand many of the laws and regulations associated with Land and Resources.

Finally, as a school administrator, I was responsible for money management in a variety of situations, ranging from overseeing a building budget to being the chief negotiator of employee contracts; the personnel costs of the school district exceeded $30 million dollars. I was always very cognizant of spending taxpayers’ dollars in a manner that was responsible and in the best interest of attaining and maintaining quality staff.

I have been attending commissioner meetings, budget meetings and lake association meetings in order to be knowledgeable of the issues directly related to this position.

GENERAL

ELECTION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6

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ALEXANDRIA CITY COUNCIL WARD 2

Roger Thalman Candidate

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DOUGLAS COUNTY BOARD DISTRICT 2

Judy Backhaus Candidate

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Tim Kalina Candidate

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DOUGLAS COUNTY BOARD DISTRICT 4

Charlie Meyer Incumbent

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DOUGLAS COUNTY BOARD DISTRICT 5

Heather Larson Candidate

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STATE REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 8B

Mary Franson Incumbent (GOP)

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Gail Kulp

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STATE REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 12A

Jeff Backer

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STATE REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 12B

Paul Anderson Incumbent (GOP)

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Ben Schirmers Candidate (DFL)

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Voter’s Guide 2018

C4 Friday, October 26, 2018

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Echo Press

Commissioner District 4

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

Born, raised and lived my entire life in the Alexandria area. I have raised my family in Alexandria and they are now raising their families here as well. I am a second generation business owner, working full time since 1974, along with other local business ventures. Served on the Alexandria Fire Department for over 20 years, spending 18 years as the president of the AFD Relief Association. Been a member of many state and local boards, including BPAM, Viking Saving Bank, and the Alexandria Rotary Club. I have also been the representative on the county board for District 4 for the past five and a half years.

I graduated from Apollo High school in 1972 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. I served as a aviation electrician. I received a honorable discharge after four years of service. I returned to St Cloud and attended St.Cloud State University. I graduated in 1980 with a degree in social work.

While working at the V.A. Hospital, I meet my future wife and we married in 1978. We have two children and four grandchildren.

Following graduation, I began my social work career in Crow Wing County. In 1986, I was hired as a social service supervisor. I was promoted to director and finished my career in 2016. During my career, I was part of many boards, including Lakeland Mental Health, West Central Community Action, as well as being a church council member of Calvary Lutheran.

What is your long-range plan for Douglas County and how do you propose to implement it for protecting natural resources, parks and public lands?

The Douglas County Land and Resource department does a great job of protecting and maintaining our natural resources through their governance. Douglas County has several beautiful and busy parks. The current commissioners are committed to protecting and expanding our park system. In the short five and a half years that I have been a commissioner, Kensington park has added 120 acres along with an new interpretive center and most exciting of all, the addition of the new Brophy Park. Once changes/additions have been made, this park will be a wonderful addition to our system. My goal is to continue to allow Land and Resource to do the great job they do, look for ways to expand our park system, and maintain the parks and land we already have.

What are your thoughts on Vacation Rental By Owners (VRBO) and Douglas County’s attempt to regulate such property? Too strict? Not strict enough?

As a commissioner and as a former resort owner, I was placed on the county task force to help put together the regulations that we have now. I believe that the VRBOs should be regulated similar to resorts to help ensure safety, both property

CHARLIE MEYER

Commissioner District 4 and lakeshore, sanitation and the welfare and respect for the neighborhood. Many of these properties are run like businesses and should be treated as such. I believe the regulations I helped put together are proper and just.

List two specific ideas for reducing the county’s budget or increasing revenue.

Doing more collaborations with other counties like Horizon Public Health and the CPT program we are working on. Joining forces where we can to utilize technology and resources will provide lower costs and better services. Also making sure that we are updating technology in all departments to help reduce timely and costly repairs of outdated equipment and programs.

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

My years of private business experience allow me to bring a different perspective to the county. This allows me to bring different ideas to help with cost and services benefiting the taxpayers. In my fiveplus years of experience, I believe I have shown I speak for my constituents. I am not afraid to voice my opinion on any issue.

When I started as a commissioner, my main objective was to ensure our tax dollars are being utilized as best they can. In my five years, I believe the other commissioners and I have made good strides in accomplishing this by cutting expenses and implementing new cost effective programs, but I believe there is more that can be done and I would like the opportunity to continue accomplishing this task.

What is your long-range plan for Douglas County and how do you propose to implement it for protecting natural resources, parks and public lands?

The long range plan I have for Douglas County will be to maintain and enhance the quality of life we enjoy here in Douglas County. I propose we develop a “real” long range plan, across all areas, using all of our resources, to arrive at the most appropriate plan, then making sure we make our decision based off that plan. It is vital we plan for the future, or we will be spending taxpayer money to make up for that mistake.

Our area is growing and aging and we need to prepare for this changing environment.

What are your thoughts on Vacation Rental By Owners (VRBO) and Douglas County’s attempt to regulate such property? Too strict? Not strict enough?

My thoughts on the VRBO issue. I did read the ordinance, and wonder how we will enforce this? I have used VRBO myself and find them to be great. I think we should encourage small business development,

MIKE WOODS

Commissioner District 4 but not at the expense of our residential areas. I support a common sense ordinance that is enforceable and will protect the neighborhoods. VRBOs that can not comply with the rules should face the consequences.

List two specific ideas for reducing the county’s budget or increasing revenue.

I have looked at the last five years of county budgets and find we have some room for reduction. I have two ideas and one personal action to reduce the budgets.

1. I propose the county begins to take a look across county departments and see if there is any way to share staff in a effort to reduce costs. 2. The county should begin to look at multi-county alliances, to provide services, so as to improve service efficiency, as well as reducing costs. My personal pledge is: I will not take any money beyond the salary, for being the county commissioner.

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

It is not for me to tell voters how to vote. I can tell you, if I am elected and given the privilege to serve, I will give it 100 percent of my effort. I will strive to ensure tax dollars are spent wisely. I also will be responsive to the people that elected me. I also pledge to be part of the solutions and not part of the problem. Thank you for this opportunity.

Here’s who’s in charge of elections Who runs elections?

Local election officials manage elections with support from the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State.

Office of the Secretary of State’s key roles  Certify election equipment.  Administer the Statewide Voter

Registration System.  Provide technical assistance to local

election officials.  Monitor compliance of state election laws.

County’s key roles

 Process voter registration applications.  Ballot layout and printing.  Apply or remove challenges to voter records.  Purchase and maintain supplies

and election equipment, including accessible voting equipment.  Program and test all voting equipment.  Issue absentee ballots.  Forward election violations to law

enforcement for investigation.  Train and certify city, township and

school district local election officials.  Compile election results and transmit to the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State website.  Conduct post-election audits.

 Train and certify election judges, if delegated by county.  Administer health care facility absentee voting.  Administer absentee balloting, if delegated by county.

Source: Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office.

See www.mnvotes.org.

City, town and school district key roles

 Set precinct boundaries and secure polling locations.  Hire election judges and assign to precincts.

Representative Paul Anderson Proud to be endorsed by:  Minnesota Chamber Leadership Fund PAC  Minnesota Citizens Concerned For Life

(MCCL) State PAC  Minnesota Farmers Union PAC  National Federation of Independent Business,

Minnesota (NFIB PAC)

GAIL GAIL GAIL

 Minnesota Farm Bureau PAC

 Care Providers of Minnesota CARE-PAC  Minnesota Gun Owners PAC  Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association PAC  Housing First Minnesota PAC  NRA Political Victory Fund

HOUSE DISTRICT 8B

HOUSE DISTRICT 8B HOUSEGAILKULP.com DISTRICT 8B GAILKULP.com GAILKULP.com

Paid for by Anderson for 12B, P.O. Box 490, Starbuck, MN

Echo Press

Voter’s Guide 2018

DOUGLAS COUNTY Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

Audrey and I have been married 55 years. We raised our three children in Douglas County and have five grandchildren.

My experience as a qualified leader has been through service in: Government: Current – Douglas County Board of Commissioners – Board Chair 2018, Office of Emergency Management, Local Government Coordination Committee (school board, city and county) – Chair, Alomere Health Board (Finance Committee – Vice Chair), MN Hospital Association (Trustee Certification 2017, Advanced Certification July 2018), Lakeland Mental Health Center Joint Powers Board – Finance Chair, West Central Regional Juvenile Joint Powers Board, Association of Minnesota Counties (Health and Human Services Committee), Minnesota Rural Counties (Broadband Committee).

Past – Alexandria City Council Ward 3 2009-2014, Ward 4 1995-1996, Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, Douglas County Regional Planning, West Central Initiative Joint Powers Board – Chair, Lakes Area Recreation Joint Powers Board – Chair.

Community: Current – Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce (Government Affairs Team), Church (Emergency Response Team).

Past – Alexandria Area Baseball Association (charter member and coach), Boy Scouts (District Chair), Church (Congregational President), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (Board Chair), Jaycees (President, State Officer, JCI Senator), Rotary, School District 206 (Band Booster Board).

Military:

What is your long-range plan for Douglas County and how do you propose to implement it for protecting natural resources, parks and public lands?

My long-term goal for Douglas County is to provide an inviting community for people to relocate to. With the recent loss of some key retail stores, I feel that many capable members of the workforce are looking for new opportunities. My hope is that the area can be a favorable choice for businesses to relocate to. We have excellent schools and a wonderful post-secondary option with the Alexandria Technical and Community College right in our backyard. By being an inviting location for our current businesses to grow and new businesses to move in, the community as a whole can benefit from the increased employment opportunities and the wide range of other services that any growing area needs. We can accomplish these goals while preserving our natural resources by working with companies that are environmentally friendly and can leave a minimal footprint on the area’s natural beauty.

What are your thoughts on Vacation Rental By Owners (VRBO) and Douglas County’s attempt to regulate such property? Too strict?

Not strict enough?

Commissioner District 5

Current – Beyond the that will use those Yellow Ribbon, Veterans trails. He has planned Council, American Leplayground equipgion Post 87. ment after extensive Past – Minnesota Army evaluation of other National Guard (Sersites that will meet geant), Max J Beilke VA the needs of our chilClinic Dedication Cerdren. This plan will emony Chair, Military include maintaining Honor Guard. as much of natural Business: vegetation as possiCurrent – New York Life ble and any strucInsurance Company tures environmentalAgent for 54 years. ly fitting into the Past – Owner/President landscape. The CenOWEN MILLER of three corporations, tral Lakes Trail SysCharter President of tem is a valuable feaCommissioner District 5 Glacial Ridge Assoture bordering ciation of Life UnderBrophy Park. writers, New York Life’s Agents Advisory As commissioners, we are responsible Council (working with company executive for certain ditch districts and we follow officers for one of the nation’s largest finan- up on all concerns brought to us regardcial institutions). ing blockage and/or flow of water. Ditches often flow through wetlands controlled What is your long-range by the DNR, who we have to work with to plan for Douglas County correct any problem without disturbing the and how do you propose to ecology of the wetlands.

implement it for protecting natural resources, parks and public lands?

My long-range plan is to continue to encourage expansion as a regional hub in healthcare, education and economic development, using sound financial principles and environmental and community values. Because we are a regional hub, the upgraded Kensington Rune Stone Park and Brophy Park are added attractions that are drawing tourists to the area for recreational enjoyment. The commissioners’ responsibility is to encourage and support our Park Superintendent in establishing an environmentally sound plan for trails, some of which have been built by organizations

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

I was born in Alexandria and lived in the area for seven years. I came back to Alexandria in 2005 to raise my daughter in this wonderful community. I am married to my husband, Grant, and we will be celebrating our 10th anniversary this November. We have two children, Sarah, a recent AAHS graduate, and William, who is in the third grade.

I attended high school in Arizona and hold an Associates Degree in Computer Networking. I own and operate Sunset Childcare, a Parent Aware rated, licensed family childcare. Previously, I have worked for Douglas County in the child support division of Social Services and Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center as a Conference Services Manager.

I am a member of the Lakes Area Professional Child Care Association, the Child Care Business Partnership and the Alexandria Gun Club. I have been an active participant in Rotary International and the Chamber of Commerce in several communities in Minnesota and Missouri. My hobbies include spending time with my family and our pets, target shooting and photography.

Friday, October 26, 2018 C5

What are your thoughts on Vacation Rental By Owners (VRBO) and Douglas County’s attempt to regulate such property? Too strict? Not strict enough?

The Vacation Rental By Owners Ordinance was established after an extensive review of other area ordinances and after a committee consisting of property owners, individuals with lakeshore rental properties, resort owners and county employees and a county commissioner. Because the ordinance was established during this past summer and rental contracts had already been established for this summer, it was

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

HEATHER LARSON

Commissioner District 5

Residents should vote for me because of my ability to take a common sense approach to the situation at hand. I want to bring transparency to the policies and decisions made by the Board of Commissioners. I would like to make the public’s ability to attend commissioner meetings more likely by alternating meeting times to include some meetings in the evening. I have the ability to be a fresh face who is willing to research and educate myself on the topics being discussed. I would be honored to

not set to be implemented until the fall of 2018. Some applications for future rental have been reviewed and been accepted or rejected. After a full season, we will have a better understanding of the fairness of the ordinance.

List two specific ideas for reducing the county’s budget or increasing revenue.

Continue the process of monitoring bond rates to allow refinancing to gain lower interest rates. In the past four years, we paid off bonds, thereby saving the taxpayers of Douglas County $1,902,390.40 of interest payments. This also has the effect of reducing the amount of revenue needed in the future. Propose a central purchasing department to take advantage of quantity pricing discounts.

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

Leadership experience through community service, business, and government is my commitment and responsibility to work with and encourage county-wide cooperation between governmental units in Douglas County, and also with other counties in providing joint services to meet the needs of our citizens. My commitment continues to support economic development as we continue to grow as a regional hub in health care, manufacturing, technology, education and recreation, and to expand the availability of services to our people.

I appreciate the fact that citizens have felt comfortable calling me with a problem or concern, knowing that if I didn’t know the answer, I would find the answer or connect them with the person that could help them.

represent the residents, employees and visitors of Douglas County.

I want to be known as an approachable person that is willing to sit down with residents and employees to discuss any questions or concerns they may have. I originally entered this race after I was contacted by a group of concerned citizens, past and current employees and several military veterans looking for a positive change in the representation they receive. I have met and connected with so many wonderful people during this process and I truly thank all of my supporters.

Vacation Rental By Owners properties have increased in popularity in our area.

These properties are a great option for visitors and a business opportunity for owners. Regulations need to be in place to ensure the safety of visitors, property owners and neighborhoods. I do not think that a blanket occupancy restriction is appropriate, and needs to be specific to the property in question. I believe it would be most appropriate to require an inspection from a fire marshal and have occupancy restrictions established during the inspection and clearly posted on the property. Once an occupancy limitation has been established, no conditional use permits would be issued over maximum occupancy in the interest of public safety. Horizon Public Health should inspect the VRBO properties on an annual basis to address any potential concerns and maintain compliance.

List two specific ideas for reducing the county’s budget or increasing revenue.

The budget of Douglas County is and always will be a fluid item that must be closely monitored to ensure the needs of the County are being met, while being responsible with every tax dollar. Working with department heads is imperative to making sure that our needs are addressed, along with long-term planning for larger expenditures when possible. The utilization of state and federal grant money can lessen the burden of our local taxpayers on many projects and purchases. By being a welcoming community to businesses, our workforce can prosper, resulting in a larger tax base as the community continues to grow.

I would also review the recent expenses incurred from the implementation of the new time management system for county employees. Douglas County is paying thousands of dollars every month in fees associated with the system. I would recommend looking at what flaws the previous system may have had and more cost effective solutions. Employees should be held accountable by their supervisors, not a clock.

The Most Bipartisan Member of Congress Minnesota Common Sense

*

“I am sent to DC to represent and work for all the people of Minnesota’s Seventh District.”

“My job in Congress is to work with whomever I can to improve peoples’lives.

No one can do that by always voting the party line.”

Endorsed By: • Farm Bureau • Farmers Union • National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) • American Federation of teachers/Education Minnesota • Business and Industry PAC (BIPAC) • Minnesota Building Trades • The Fargo Forum

According to the Bipartisan Index (BPI) measured and administered by the Lugar Center

*

and McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University.

Paid for by Peterson for Congress

C6 Friday, October 26, 2018

Voter’s Guide 2018

STATE REPRESENTATIVE Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

I’m a mom, former small business owner, and current legislator. I graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth with a degree in psychology. I’m a working mom with three wonderful children. Prior to my election to the legislature, I owned my own childcare business. Being a small business owner and a childcare provider, I developed an understanding of the challenges we face in Minnesota. I know firsthand how difficult it can be to be a small business owner in this state and how hard it can be for parents to afford childcare.

These experiences inspired me to run for office.

What would be your three top priorities for the 2019 legislative session and how would you address them?

My top three priorities for the 2019 Legislative Session include lowering healthcare costs, protecting the unborn, and preserving our Second Amendment rights.

As it relates to healthcare, I would like to see the legislature build upon its work lowering healthcare costs. During the 2017 Legislative Session, we passed a policy reform called “reinsurance” that have helped to reduce or flatten individual market health insurance rates after years of double-digit

GAIL KULP, DFL

State Representative District 8B

increases following stituents who have Obamacare’s implequestions, comments, mentation in Minneor concerns can meet sota. While this was with me directly. I also a good first step, we work hard to respond have more to do to to constituent emails lower healthcare and calls in a timely costs for Minnesomanner. tans.

It’s important for votI continue to be a ers to know where canstrong advocate for didates stand on the isthe pro-life cause. sues. I have been very With a pro-life govclear where I stand. ernor, I hope we can Before casting their enact reforms that ballots, voters deserve MARY FRANSON, R protect those who to know where candiare the most dedates stand on major State Representative fenseless among us issues. You don’t have District 8B – the unborn. to wonder where I Over the past few stand. years, we have seen efforts to restrict When I’m in St. Paul, I carry our commuour Second Amendment rights. There is nity’s values with me. You can count on me even one legislator from Minneapolis who to do that again for another two years. I will went so far as to call for the police to be not be influenced by liberal politicians from disarmed. I will fight efforts to impose gun Minneapolis. control on our citizens in Minnesota.

What are the most important traits of a state representative and how have you demonstrated those qualities?

How would you grade the Legislature’s ability to get things done? What, if anything, can be done to improve the process?

A state representative needs to be accessible, clear on the issues, and in touch with the values of the voters in the community.

I remain accessible to voters by holding constituent coffee meetings where con-

Overall, the Legislature has done an excellent job of getting things done – like delivering tax relief and lowering healthcare costs for Minnesotans.

When you have 201 legislators and a governor who need to come to agreement

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

2000. My postsecondary education includes: B.S. from the University of Minnesota and M.S. from the University of Utah. I was appointed by the Alexandria City Council to serve on the Stormwater Management Committee and the Cable TV Commission. My interest in housing issues led to participation in the Community Conversation on Housing. I continue serving as a board member of The Windmill Project and shared ministry opportunities at Shalom Lutheran Church.

Jay and I have been married 41 years and have two adult children (one deceased). Our son was born with severe brain damage at birth so I became a stayat-home mom. I learned how to be his advocate and spent over 20 years working with families of children who have disabilities in Minnesota and Utah. From 2002 until the end of 2013, I led The Windmill Project, a local nonprofit. I graduated from Partners in Policymaking in 2007. I was named FAMILY LINKS Parent of the Year in

What would be your three top priorities for the 2019 legislative session and how would you address them?

1. Because family farmers and many others find their health insurance inadequate or unaffordable, I am committed to passing a bill that provides a buy-in option to MinnesotaCare. A sliding scale will set premiums according to income. In 2018, instead of investing $12 million for the buy-in, our Legislature gave $550 million in subsidies to insurance companies, expecting to see lower premiums. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires insurance companies to spend at least 80 percent of premiums collected on health care costs and quality improvement activities. With only 20 percent left for administrative, overhead and marketing costs, I question the likelihood of insurance companies providing any meaningful premium relief.

2. The 2018 legislative leaders failed when a bipartisan bill to fix a 7 percent cut in funding for services that support individuals with disabilities was slipped into the omnibus bill. Minnesotans with disabilities and the hardworking staff who support them took a big hit when cuts became effective July 1. If people with disabilities really mattered, the bill would have gone directly to the Governor for his signature.

I am passionate about this and will fight to correct this injustice to Minnesotans and address the shortage of Direct Support Professionals. It will be difficult to repair the harm done to people with disabilities, their support staff and the organizations that provide these important services.

3. To increase transparency in lawmaking I will take action(s) on the House Floor as a “point of order” to prevent the Legislature from violating Article IV Sec. 17 of Minnesota’s Constitution that says “No law shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.”

What are the most important traits of a state representative and how have you demonstrated those qualities?

It is of primary importance for a state representative to be available to constituents and local leaders. They should serve with honesty, integrity, a willingness to work hard, listen carefully, and build respectful relationships with colleagues and staff regardless of party affiliation. I have these qualities – based on my core values learned as a child. I have honed them during my career as a nonprofit executive, project coordinator, parent consultant, professional nurse recruiter, public information officer and stay-at-home mom. Those who know me well can tell you I am more comfortable doing the work than being in the spotlight.

Echo Press

District 8B on an issue, it takes time. Unfortunately, it sometimes doesn’t get resolved until people recognize that time is winding down.

That’s human nature.

In order for the legislative process to work, you need elected officials who are clear where they stand so that the points of negotiation are unambiguous and that voters aren’t surprised about which priorities are moving forward.

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

I am a tested and trusted conservative voice at the Capitol. I am proudly pro-life, pro-Second Amendment, and against tax increases. As a member of the Health & Human Services committee, I have been able to identify and help pass solutions to lower healthcare costs for Minnesotans. I intend to build on that work next year.

We also need to make sure we have legislators who will hold government agencies accountable. Too often, we’ve seen government agencies or programs – like the DNR or MNLARS – cause hassles and unnecessary added expense for people in our community because state government can’t get their act together. You can count on me to be that voice of accountability at the Capitol.

It’s been my honor to represent this community for the past eight years. I hope you will vote for me again so I can continue to fight for our shared conservative values in St. Paul. I represent the best!

How would you grade the Legislature’s ability to get things done? What, if anything, can be done to improve the process?

It is really hard to get things done when everything is viewed through the lens of party loyalties. I along with the people of the district expect legislators to get the work done and on time. I give the 2018 Legislature a grade of C-; this is generous considering the missed opportunities and resulting ramifications. Can the process be improved? Of course, but it will take a new spirit of bipartisanship and a commitment to the folks at home. It appears that a lot of time gets wasted when too many bills are authored. No wonder the work doesn’t get done. If we expect government to cut waste, that should apply to the Legislature as well. Action on bills with bipartisan authors should be expedited. When elected officials insist on adopting a win-lose approach to lawmaking, it becomes too much about them. The real losers are those of us here at home. Let’s put an end to bickering and finger pointing. Instead of government of “big money,” by “big money,” for “big money,” let’s get back to “government of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

• My focus is finding solutions not casting blame.

• I will develop alliances rather than division regardless of party affiliation.

• I am committed to workers, farmers, children, and those who are vulnerable; I will fight for them.

• I will work for those with mental illnesses to receive treatment and support services like those with physical ailments.

• I want responsible gun owners to identify realistic protections from gun violence.

• I agree climate change is real and we need action to protect our natural resources.

• Instead of shaming people, I will work to restore dignity and opportunities.

• I seek justice, mercy, and humility rather than arrogance.

• I will listen to and represent all my constituents.

Voter’s Guide 2018

Echo Press

Friday, October 26, 2018 C7

STATE REPRESENTATIVE Baccalaureate degree from St. Cloud State in Public Policy and Chemistry. My brother and I have started and run our own small business for 28 years. Mayor of Browns Valley from 2005 to 2010. School board member from 2010 to 2014. Active member of Zion Lutheran church. Married for 25 years and have one adult daughter.

Served as a state representative for four years (two terms) and am presently on Environment and Natural Resources Policy and Finance Committee, Health and Human Service Finance Committee and ViceCharge of Agriculture Policy Committee. I also serve as an Assistant Majority Whip.

For the past two years I was the Co-Chair of the Rural GOP House and Senate Caucus.

What would be your three top priorities for the 2019 legislative session and how would you address them?

There are so many issues that I need to continue to fight for the constituents of 12A. Some of them would include: 1) Continue my work to make HealthCare more affordable. That would include but not limited to lowering rates on the individual market, combating “surprise healthcare billing,” strengthening choice and access. 2)

Keep the tax burden ways keep in touch low. Bring Minnesota with 12A. When travelinto compliance so ing back and forth beour state can particitween home and St. pate with the new Paul, I take the four federal tax cuts. 3) In hours to talk to comthe rural areas we see missioners, adminisstate agencies overtrators, board memreaching their authorbers and private ity. Board of Water citizens. Constituents Resources (BWSR), come first into my ofDepartment of Natufice and lobbyists ral Resources (DNR), come last. Co-author Minnesota Pollution bills that are helpful to Control Agency rural areas and fight JEFF BACKER, R (MPCA), Minnesota for them. Volunteer State Representative Department of Agrifor committees even if District 12A culture (MDA) are all it means more work wreaking havoc on because that way I family farms with incan serve and protect creasingly new and harmful regulations my district better. Work across the political which are not grounded in legal process or aisle on areas of common concern. Pay atsound science. Their scope of power needs tention to companion bills in the Senate. to be limited and brought under close scru- Take time to laugh and relax because the tiny of the Legislature. work is very demanding down there. Be involved in the rural caucus. Take the stairs to keep in shape. I’m on the fifth floor. Keep What are the most an open office door. Freely give out my cell important traits of a state number and return the calls. Know where representative and how to find the right people with the right inforhave you demonstrated those mation. Nobody can know it all.

qualities?

“Don’t drink the water” at St. Paul by keeping focused on the constituents of District 12A. One can compromise when it involves issues that have no direct impact on 12A but not when it involves 12A. Al-

A school district should have fair and equitable funding that will allow all students to prepare for their future, no matter where they live. Special education funding and resources have lagged. All children are our children. They deserve our best, so they can be their best. Our children are the workers and leaders of the future. They need the help and tools necessary that will allow them to develop their fullest potential.

MURRAY SMART, DFL State Representative District 12A

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

Our family consists of my wife and three grown children. We have two grandchildren.

We moved to Beardsley in 1979 where I taught Social Studies, driver education, and coached for five years. I served Beardsley-Browns Valley 10 years. I was in Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley one year and spent 21 years as a school counselor at Breckenridge. I currently teach driver education in Chokio-Alberta.

I have had the opportunity to work with students, families, communities, community and state agencies, and federal agencies in my work as a teacher, coach, and school counselor. I currently serve as the Government Relations Co-Chair with the Minnesota School Counselors Association and am past chair of the MN ACT Council.

What would be your top three priorities for the 2019 legislative session and how would you address them?

Health care costs are a major concern. Health costs are rising. A health crisis should not become a financial crisis.

Pre-existing conditions should be covered.

Senior citizens are a backbone of our communities. They need accessible, affordable health care, and transportation to that health care. Rural hospitals and nursing homes provide care, employment, and economic anchors in our communities. We must support the work of health care providers. One possible solution is the Minnesota Health Plan www.mnhealthplan.org We need an economy that works as a level playing field for all. Minnesotans deserve a living wage to care for their families and to fund economic growth and prosperity in our communities. Our neighbors need affordable housing and rental properties.

Families need accessible quality daycare.

Daycare providers need help and assistance to operate their facilities. Roads and bridges need adequate funding. Transportation options need to be available. Rural broadband requires attention.

Minnesota has great pride in our educational system and much respect across the nation. A number of our schools are faced with budget shortfalls and concerns about the rising cost of inflation. Funding education is a major duty of the legislature.

What are the most important traits of a state representative and how have you demonstrated those qualities?

“We the people” are the first three words of our constitution. Not – some people, certain people, only those people, not those people, the political party, etc., but “We the people.” An important trait of any legislator is to remember that they represent – all the people of their legislative district and the people of Minnesota. Their duty is to make sure that they have heard from and considered input from all sides of a particular issue. If a legislator doesn’t listen or just listens to certain sides or groups, key input can be left out. A decision should be made based on all of the best input that was available. Partisanship battles can lead to issues not being addressed or getting worse.

I have worked in and with a variety of systems and many individuals and groups.

Schools are a great microcosm of all of what and who we are. To be helpful, insightful, encouraging and learn, it takes a listening ear and an open heart and mind.

I have worked with students, parents, staff, administration, the community, community agencies, and national agencies in helping them to develop and provide opportunities to learn and grow. I have been able to lead and serve a number of organizations such as the Minnesota School Counselors Association, the MN ACT Council, School to Work programs, and I helped secure a $12 million dollar grant “Support Our Students” to provide additional student personnel to Minnesota schools.

How would you grade the Legislature’s ability to get things done? What, if anything, can be done to improve the process?

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

I believe that it is important to work for the common good of all Minnesotans. I feel that it is extremely important for anyone to: Listen to learn, ask to understand, be open to opportunities, and dig to discover solutions. A legislator should be able to collaborate and work with others. Legislators may get elected as members of different

The Legislature does get a lot done.

Over 4,000 bills were introduced last session. Approximately 220 passed into law.

That is a lot of work. It would be more helpful if the bills were passed earlier in the session instead of the last wild week of the session. Timelines for bills should be diligently followed to avoid the last minute rush.

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

I have more qualifications as previously mentioned. I have business experience and much of the work done at the legislature involves business concerns. My opponent has never run a business. I have held several local public offices. This shows concern for local issues and leadership. My opponent has not done this. I have worked harder than my opponent on the campaign trail and that is how I already work at the capitol. My opponent was a teacher. I was on the school board and had to learn how to balance all the areas of concerns in a school district. You may have noticed that my signs been used for my third campaign.

I am fiscally conservative. I do not buy new signs each time I run. I live my personal and political life by spending each dollar carefully. I do not like wasteful spending.

political parties, but when they come to the Legislature they become teammates that Minnesotans expect to work together as a team for the good of the state, not their political party. Our job is to help, not hurt others. Two of my favorite words are curious and open. Children are great teachers with their open and curious approach to life. We need legislators who maintain their ability to see a world of possibilities for all.

Alexandria City Council Ward 2 Paid for by Roger Thalman for City Council

· Listen to constituents · Fact-based decision maker · Believe in sensible controlled spending · Ready to make tough decisions · Consider public service a privilege

How would you grade the Legislature’s ability to get things done? What, if anything, can be done to improve the process?

Partisan battles are stalling needed actions in the legislature. Approval of and trust in government is eroding. Partisanship means that our leaders are only seeing, responding, and placing emphasis on one side of an issue. Large end of session omnibus bills of multiple topics are an example of this. Our Constitution holds that no bill should embrace more than one subject. Minnesotans must have concerns presented, heard, discussed with all sides weighing in, and acted upon as a single bill, not stuffed into an end of session large omnibus bill. This way, all parties can be heard and listened to. Minnesotans can listen, watch, learn by how legislators work and act. They can decide if a particular legislator is locked into a way of seeing and acting that limits their ability to work for the good of all or are they able to be and stay open to possibilities that advance what is good for all Minnesotans.

001776390r1

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

District 12A

Voter’s Guide 2018

C8 Friday, October 26, 2018

Echo Press

STATE REPRESENTATIVE Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

I have been a member of the Minnesota House for the past 10 years and currently serve as chairman of the House Agriculture Policy Committee. Prior to that, I worked my way up through the ranks of local government, serving on my township board, on my local school board, and as a county commissioner. I am a graduate of Starbuck High School and the University of Minnesota. My wife, Faith, and I operate our fourth generation family farm in Barsness Township of Pope County. We have three grown children and four grandchildren.

What would be your three top priorities for the 2019 legislative session and how would you address them?

My top priority is to work on passing state tax conformity legislation. With changes made at the federal level, it is important that we also pass a tax bill on the state level. A bipartisan bill was passed out of the Legislature last spring but, unfortunately, it was vetoed by the governor. Until we do get a tax bill signed into law, filing in

Please list your background and qualifications for the position. (Include experience, education, job, family, etc.)

A Sauk Centre native, I attended Holy Family Elementary and then graduated a Mainstreeter with the Class of 2000. After high school, I went directly to work with my brothers on their 100 cow dairy. Eighteen years on the farm has honed my work ethic and strengthened my resolve in a way not many occupations can. I believe farming to be a solid prerequisite to most anything.

I’m sure anyone who has lived the life would agree. As a musician and songwriter, I have been able to continually build and maintain relationships with people and small businesses throughout the area. My interest in civic duty stems from volunteering at the Eagle’s Healing Nest in Sauk Centre.

What would be your three top priorities for the 2019 legislative session and how would you address them?

The issues that hit home closest to me begin with our small farms. Between Pope, Stearns and Douglas counties, we have lost over 400 dairies in just the past 10 years. Yet cow numbers continue to grow statewide. It is time to have an honest discussion about the rapid expansion of the mega dairies to our West. While we may never put farmers back on the land in the numbers that once were, we should be working to ensure we do not lose anymore.

In the next 15 years, 50 percent of America’s agriculture equity is going to change hands. This is an opportunity that can not be lost on us. Further consolidation does not benefit our communities.

I support deregulation of industrial hemp.

I would favor tax incentives for CSAs and local food co-ops. I support continued in-

Minnesota will be more expensive and more complicated for our residents. We need to work on tax legislation immediately when the new session begins in January.

We need to address shortages in funding and the availability of treatment facilities in the areas of mental health and disabilities.

Education funding and school safety will also be top priorities for me. Additional funding will be needed to assist local schools as they address safety in their buildings.

PAUL ANDERSON, R State Representative District 12B

What would be your three top priorities for the 2019 legislative session and how would you address them?What are the most important traits of a state representative and how have you demonstrated those qualities?

I think the most important traits of a legislator include having a genuine interest

District 12B in people and wanting to help them. One needs to be a good listener. And I also think that a legislator needs to look at the big picture and try to understand all sides of an issue before deciding how he or she will vote.

I strive to work with members of both sides of the aisle to come up with compromise legislation that works for all involved.

How would you grade the Legislature’s ability to get things done? What, if anything, can be done to improve the process?

That question can be a bit tricky because there are examples of the Legislature getting its work done by passing bills, only to have them vetoed by the governor.

So, it depends on how that situation is evaluated. I tell folks when we are compared to the Congress in Washington that we at the state level have to pass a balanced budget every two years and that we can’t deficit

vestments in renewPublic schools should able energy sources not be in competition understanding we will with each other. I suphave an ongoing deport fully funded Pre-K/ mand for fossil fuels. I ECFE, increased embelieve a harmony can phasis on vocational/ be reached between skilled labor training the two. I support the and PSEOs. We should replacement of Enalso provide expanded bridge’s Line 3. mental health services On concerns around and funding for school water quality I feel the security. I believe we buffer initiative, while could pay for some of well intentioned, was these education imforcibly and hastily provements by shifting BEN SCHIRMERS, DFL rolled out. Fault lies on money from Health both sides for an unand Human Services.

State Representative willingness to work toAs a candidate who District 12B gether. Any farmer that has chosen not to acset aside productive land should be fairly cept contributions from PACs or Unions compensated with a property tax credit. I am ready to go to work on the issue of There is a proven need for implementation campaign finance reform. It’s time we end of the nitrogen rule to protect groundwater the hidden money and limitless spending. in sensitive soils. I do not believe though, Another problem we have is we are too that any state agency should have the sole often electing officials that don’t represent authority to write these types of rules. They the majority. One solution would be to imshould be written by a legislative commit- plement ranked choice voting. In a ranked tee with recommendations and input from choice election simply getting the most regulators as well as citizen groups. This votes is not enough. You need a majority should be a very open and public process. to win, which is 50 percent plus one. For Healthcare remains a top concern for a simple explanation of how ranked choice most everyone. I think we would all agree voting works watch “Whos Your Favorite we need greater cost transparency as well President?” at http://www.fairvotemn.org/. as increased education for preventative care, birth control, and end of life choices.

What are the most importFor those like me who are self-employed ant traits of a state repreand have been priced out of the individual sentative and how have you insurance market I support a public option demonstrated those qualities? to Minnesota Care. A true buy-in mind you, not a give away. People are not unwilling to Traits I feel that are important in our pay for their health insurance. They’re just representatives include honesty, integrity, looking for an affordable choice with actual and work ethic. I have no better example of benefits. Your health, whether good or bad, this than in how, throughout this process, I should not be treated like a commodity. have been upfront about the felony on my In education I’d like to see more equitarecord. In May of 2002, at the age of 20, I ble funding between districts. An undue set fire to the “little red schoolhouse” in burden has been placed on local property Sauk Centre. Subsequently, I was convictowners, especially in our more rural areas.

spend. There are many issues that are resolved in the normal course of a session that don’t get media attention.

One question I often get asked is why everything seems to get done in the last few days of the session. Part of the reason is that the newest budget forecast doesn’t become available until the end of February and it’s only after that time when the real work of putting budgets together starts to take place. Until then, we don’t have solid budget numbers to work with.

If those end-of-session deadlines could be moved up by a couple of weeks, we would have the additional time needed to address concerns from the governor and make the necessary changes in legislation to avert possible vetoes.

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

My seniority in St. Paul along with four years of being a committee chair give me an added boost in getting things done for our district and the state. I have authored bills to secure funding for projects in this district and have also authored important legislation in the area of agriculture. I have shown that I can work in a bipartisan fashion and I know how to get things done.

ed of arson. I have long acknowledged this was a regrettable lapse in judgement and have worked hard to regain the trust and respect of my community. I am proud of this and am certainly grateful for the second chance. We can’t hide from our mistakes. Only accept and learn from them.

How would you grade the Legislature’s ability to get things done? What, if anything, can be done to improve the process?

If I were to grade the legislature I would give them a “C.” In recent years there has been a breakdown in the legislative process. We need to step back in line with Minnesota’s constitution and only pass bills that pertain to one subject. The 989 page supplemental budget bill passed in 2018 contained as much as two-thirds of all the subjects addressed last session.

Garbage. Not only did it lack transparency, it prevented accountability and violated Minnesota’s constitution. It was rightfully vetoed by the Governor.

Why should residents vote for you instead of your opponent?

Because I don’t carry the strong partisan ideologies so prevalent in today’s politics I feel I am well suited to work across the aisle. My opponent is a party-line voter nearly 95 percent of the time. Common sense reform and compromise is how we make progress. Civil discourse and choice are important in our elections. We shouldn’t accept complacency. Each election cycle is an opportunity to hold our lawmakers accountable. We don’t need term limits so much as we just need good candidates. In the end, at the very least, my hope is that this campaign makes people think before they cast their ballots. Thank you.

Here are locations of polling places Here are the polling places in Douglas County: Alexandria Ward 1/precinct 1

Lake Community Church, 490 Voyager Dr, Alexandria

Alexandria Ward 1/precinct 2

Lake Community Church, 490 Voyager Dr, Alexandria

Alexandria Ward 2

Living Waters Church, 1310 North Nokomis, Alexandria

Alexandria Ward 3

New Life Christian Church, 1910 Co Rd 82 SE, Alexandria

Evansville City Hall, 106 State St, Evansville

City of Evansville

Millerville Township (share with Millerville city) Millerville Fire Hall, 16560 Co Rd 7 NW, Brandon.

Evansville Township (share with Evansville city) Evansville City Hall, 106 State St, Evansville

Miltona Community Center, 5590 Co Rd 14, Miltona

City of Forada

Forada City Hall, 10991 Tobys Ave SE, Alexandria

City of Garfield

Alexandria Ward 4

Garfield City Hall and Community Center, 101 Sanstead St E, Garfield

Alexandria Ward 5/precinct 1

Holmes City Town Hall, 11180 Tewes Trl SW, Farwell

Alexandria Ward 5/precinct 2

Forada City Hall, 10991 Tobys Ave SE, Alexandria

Alexandria Township

Ida Town Hall, 4700 Co Rd 6 NW, Garfield

Cornerstone Church, 202 7th Ave East, Alexandria Alexandria City Hall, 704 Broadway, Alexandria Alexandria City Hall 704 Broadway, Alexandria Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2702 St Hwy 29 N, Alexandria

Belle River Township

St. Nicholas Church, 9473 Co Rd 3 NE, Carlos

City of Brandon

Orange Township (share with Osakis city) Ed Pollard C ommunity Center 18 E Nokomis St, Osakis

Ida Township

Ed Pollard Community Center, 18 E Nokomis St, Osakis

City of Kensington

Osakis Township (share with Osakis city) Ed Pollard C ommunity Center 18 E Nokomis St, Osakis

Kensington Community Center, 19 Central Ave, Kensington

LaGrand Township

LaGrand Town Hall, 501 Town Hall Rd NW, Alexandria

Lake Mary Township

Leaf Valley Town Hall, 15240 Co Rd 6 NW, Garfield

Carlos Township

City of Nelson

Hudson Township (share with Forada city)

Brandon Township (share with Brandon city) Brandon City Hall, 105 Holmes Ave N, Brandon

Carlos Township Town Hall 210, Victoria Ave, Carlos

Moe Township

Pioneer Park, 14641 Pioneer Park Rd SW, Garfield Nelson City Hall, 120 N Nelson St, Nelson

Lake Mary Town Hall, 4791 Co Rd 4 SW, Alexandria

Carlos City Hall, 109 1st St W, Carlos

Miltona Township

Miltona Community Center, 5590 C o Rd 14 NE, Miltona

Holmes Township

Brandon City Hall, 105 Holmes Ave N, Brandon

City of Carlos

City of Miltona

Leaf Valley Township Lund Township

Town Hall in Melby, 17443 Lakeview Ave NW, Evansville

City of Millerville

Millerville Fire Hall, 16560 Co Rd 7 NW, Brandon

City of Osakis

Solem Township

Kensington Runestone Park, 8965 Co Rd 103 SW, Kensington

Spruce Hill Township

Spruce Hill Town Hall, 12055 Willow Dr NE, Miltona

Urness Township

Urness Town Hall, 2160 Co Rd 1 SW, Evansville

Where do I vote?

To see a sample of your Election Day ballot or to find out where to vote, go to the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website at www.mnvotes.org. You can also register to vote, check your registration and more.