www.brainerddispatch.com Serving the Brainerd LakeS area and CentraL MinneSota SinCe 1881 Thursday, October 16, 2014

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www.brainerddispatch.com Serving

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Soon — skeptics might say “not soon

enough,” — the political advertising will

cease, the candidate forums will be over

and voters go to the polls and exercise the final

say in the 2014 election. Many voters have already

had their say as Minnesota offered vote by mail

or no excuses absentee balloting for the first time.

This Brainerd Dispatch voter’s guide, along with

the political coverage the newspaper has provided

all year and the opinions offered in our commen-

tary page, should help central Minnesota voters

make decisions on a variety of races.

The Dispatch only included specifics on contest-

ed area races. In some races the Dispatch did not

receive a response to a questionnaire it sent out to

candidates.

PLenty of deCiSionS await thoSe who go to the PoLLS nov. 4

Brainerd MayorBrainerd MayorBrainerd Mayor

Brainerd City Council Brainerd City Council Brainerd City Council (Ward 2)

Brainerd City Council Brainerd City Council Brainerd City Council (Ward 4)

Brainerd City Council Brainerd City Council Brainerd City Council (At-large)(At-large)

Kelly Kelly Bevans

Qualifications:I’ve served the cit-izens of Brainerd’s Ward 2 for three terms, serving as council president twice and chairman of the Personnel and

Finance Committee twice. I’ve served as president of the Brainerd Jaycees, the Minnesota Jaycees, and most im-portantly have been married for nearly 30 years to my lovely wife, Sue.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: If elected I intend to work If elected I intend to work

toward lower taxes, strengthening in-frastructure and continuing to make frastructure and continuing to make Brainerd a beautiful city of opportuni-ty and growth.

Specifically, how would you ac-complish your goals?: As a city we must continue to strive to do more with less. We could accomplish this through more effective partnerships with other government entities. Some possible areas of shared services are water, sewer, computer and technol-ogy support. We already are sharing employees between departments with some success, possibly we could do more of this? We must continue to market our city as a great place to live, work and play to foster an envi-ronment for economic growth.ronment for economic growth.

Guy GreenQualifications: I meet all of the qualifica-

tions demanded in the charter. In addition, I will act in accordance with the charter. I also bring energy and dedication to renew-ing trust in government. I have rallied the public to preserve their rights and power before and will do so as Brainerd’s mayor.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: I want to instill in government an understanding of its proper role, which is to protect and serve, to maximize freedom and opportunity. Government should be an ally of business, not a bedfellow. Government shouldn’t be in the real estate development business. It shouldn’t be spending millions on aged hydro dams without consulting the people who pay for it. It should be creating a trust with its citizenry. Our appointed city officials should be accountable to not only our council, but our citizens. Our very first our council, but our citizens. Our very first

goal should be to hand down to our grandchil-dren a debt free future.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I would be-gin with meetings with all department heads. Iwill assess the financial condition of the city and devise a plan to get us out from under our debt as soon as pos-sible. I will carefully consider all actions put forth from the council, and only signthose that are in keeping with sound fis-cal policy. I will explain my actions fully. I will use the somewhat limited powers of the office to their maximum to assure that the citizens are fully informed of the details of government action. I will limit myself to two terms.

Sue Hilgart Qualifications: Twenty-one year resident

of Brainerd. Volunteer on Police and Fire Civ-il Service and Transit Advisory Committee and numerous other community service groups, 20 years human resource experience, nine years Workforce Development experience, BA in Management and Communications, MA in management leadership in process at Concor-management leadership in process at Concor-management leadership in process at Concordia University, St. Paul.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: I will listen to citizens of Brainerd and rep-resent them. The city of Brainerd has incurred an incredible debt load; the debt payments each year nearly equal the recent budget short-fall in excess of one million dollars. Until the debt load has been reduced, further borrow-ing/bonding needs to be drastically curtailed. I would add new high wage jobs in advanced manufacturing and technology sectors by at-tracting new businesses to the industrial park and empty office buildings. By increasing reve-

nues from business, the burnues from business, the bur-nues from business, the bur-nues from business, the burden on individual property den on individual property owners to support the full fi-nancial needs of the city will be eased.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: If elected, I will take an ac-tive role in creating oppor-tive role in creating oppor-tive role in creating opportunity for Brainerd residents to live, work, and raise their families here. I will work with economic devel-opment partners in the city and state to foster economic growth, bringing new business and industry to Brainerd to increase employment opportunities with high wages. I will listen to residents, business owners and city staff gather-residents, business owners and city staff gather-residents, business owners and city staff gathering their input on services and responsibilities of city government; identifying the highest pri-orities and will look at ways the current model can be modified to collaborate with other local government and industry to reduce our costs.

Gabriel Ralph JohnsonQualifications: I have a lot of ex-

perience working with local nonprofit organizations. I was born in Brainerd, have lived here my entire life, I own a business here, and I am raising my chil-dren here. I intend to keep improving our great and historic city.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: I want to ensure the continu-ing success of our community by help-ing support all successful policies in place, listening to new ideas and show-ing our citizens that an elected official can have their best interest in mind.

Specifically, how would you ac-complish your goals?: My relation-ships inside the business community, with members of the senior populawith members of the senior popula-

tion, charity organition, charity organi-zations, and memzations, and mem-bers of the church ensure my ability to find out how to ac-complish what the people of Brainerd feel is needed for their well being. My communica-tion skills, my ability to hear what is being said, and the feedback from all the people of Brainerd guides my vi-sion. You cannot accomplish anything without knowing what the people who elect you want, and I will accomplish what I set out to do with their wants as my driving force. my driving force.

Dolly MattenDolly MattenQualifications: Hav-

ing had the opportunity to serve the remainder of Bonnie Cumberland’s term, I have gained much knowledge to the inner workings of the city and its connection to the cit-izens and the business community. Although community. Although community

some weaknesses may exist, there are far more strengths to stay focused on.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: I strongly relate to the city’s stra-tegic plan because it clearly identifies the foundation of everything I believe Brainerd to be while focusing on the things I feel are extremely important to our community. We must be financially responsible for the ex-penditures of our city yet establish a plan for future growth and improvements. Outlining

areas of need, changing the way “we always do things,” and simply realizing the benefits do things,” and simply realizing the benefits of living in Brainerd - that is what needs to be identified!

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: Restructuring how different departments can work together and utilize existing staff and equipment to fulfill needs.

Work to bring business and industry to our community. Change past negative image and foster a positive and responsive attitude towards job producing/tax paying business and industry owners.

Strengthen communication within our community with the implementation of an interactive city website. Allowing transpar-interactive city website. Allowing transpar-interactive city website. Allowing transparency to citizens of Brainerd, notification of city-wide news and/or alerts, upcomingroad projects, descriptions of our parks/trails, and the reverse incoming technology from citizen communication back to appropriate city staff as to areas of concern. Effective and Efficient.

Dale A. ParksDale A. ParksQualifications: Current city

council liaison to Transportation Committee, Brainerd Housing and Redevelopment, The Cen-ter, and Brainerd Parks and Rec-reation. Currently Brainerd City Council president. I’m finishingmy fourth year of service on the city council. Previously a su-pervisor in Crow Wing County

Community Services giving me valuable manage-ment and budgeting experience.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: I would like to continue the work and vision start-ed by the late Bonnie Cumberland. Specifically I would like to work with the council and staff to fulfill the goals of the city’s 2013 Strategic Plan. This includes investing in neighborhoods, proThis includes investing in neighborhoods, pro-

vide stable financial planning and to provide im-proved communication and public relations with proved communication and public relations with citizens. In addition I want to work on filling the Brainerd Industrial Park, Brainerd Industrial Cen-ter and fill the storefronts in downtown Brainerd.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I will work with the Brainerd Police Department to help establish neighborhood or-Department to help establish neighborhood or-Department to help establish neighborhood organizations. The goal is to assist neighborhoods in organizing self-sufficient groups to provide pride of ownership and livability within neigh-borhoods. I will also continue to work hard to stabilize our current financial planning. We need to establish long-range planning. This in-cludes being proactive and not always reactive. I will work with the Brainerd Lakes Chamber and Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corporation (BLAEDC) to have industrial and business owners relocate to Brainerd.business owners relocate to Brainerd.

Dirk C. VanDerwerkerQualifications: Brainerd’s Zoning Review Task

Force 2005-2006. Brainerd resident 10 years. B.A. Carleton College, M.A. Univ. of Iowa. Serv-ing First Lutheran Church: Church Council (five years) and Stewardship Committee (six years). Self-employed fee-only financial planner. Mar-Self-employed fee-only financial planner. Mar-Self-employed fee-only financial planner. Married 25 years, three children.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?:Encourage and promote an open and account-able city government. Protect and improve on the quality of Brainerd’s residential neighborhoods. Work toward reinventing Brainerd’s downtown.

Provide residents with efficient, cost-effective services while limiting property tax increases. Re-spond to citizen questions and concerns

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?:goals?: Educate the public that the council needs Educate the public that the council needs

the public’s active participation the public’s active participation and its expertise to make sound and its expertise to make sound decisions.

Ask that each council member provide a rationale for their votes.

Ensure that governmental checks-and-balances are in place. Currently, two city coun-cil members are voting mem-bers of the planning commis-sion, which then forwards its recommendations to the city council for approval or denial. I would eliminate this ability to vote twice on the same issue.

I would oppose the expansion of more-inten-sive, non-residential uses within residential zones.

Improve the city’s residential housing stock through code enforcement and additional grants.grants.

Mayor James WallinQualifications: I have

served as both a coun-cilman and mayor. I am married and the father offour children. I continue to run a successful pri-vate business and served 35 years in the Minneso-ta National Guard. I feel that I am the best candi-date for this position.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: If re-elected, I would continue to make Brainerd business friendly. In my 40 years of business, I have brought over $30 million of printing and mailing business from outstate into Brain-erd. The city has good businesses. We ac-knowledge their efforts and retain them, while attracting new business by embracing hile attracting new business by embracing

technology and working with our great re-source at CLC. Working together with the college and entities such as BLAEDC and the chamber, I will continue to promote and make Brainerd a regional center that is rec-ognized throughout the state.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: My goals as mayor are to honor-My goals as mayor are to honor-My goals as mayor are to honorably represent the city of Brainerd by working in collaboration with our resources and city hall. I operate my business, the city and per-hall. I operate my business, the city and per-hall. I operate my business, the city and personal life at the highest standards of truthful-ness, being open and address concerns asked of me. Brainerd has made significant chang-es to adapt for the future. I have championed improvements over the years to address ef-ficiencies in administration, and throughout our city right down to collecting trash in the city parks. We as a city, need to make the changes necessary to provide the highest lev-el of service to our citizens.el of service to our citizens.

JAMESWALLIN

GUYGREEN

KELLYBEVANS

DIRK C.VANDERWERKER

GABRIELJOHNSON

DALE A.PARKS

DOLLYMATTEN

SUEHILGART

VOTER’S GUIDE www.brainerddispatch.comS2S2 Thursday, October 16, 2014

Real Experience

True Leadership

Fighting For Taxpayers

✓

✓

THE TAXPAYERS’ CHOICE

MARK LIEDL

FORCOUNTY

RECORDER

14-5404-Newspaper Ad.qxp_Layout 1 10/7/14 2:22 PM Page 1

Paid for by Mark Liedl for Recorder Committee, David Liedl, Treasurer 00

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VOTER’S GUIDE www.brainerddispatch.com Thursday, October 16, 2014

Baxter City Council Baxter City Council Baxter City Council (Elect two)

Brainerd School Board Brainerd School Board Brainerd School Board (Elect three)

Tom HiceTom HiceQualifications: Successful

business entrepreneur and business leader in the commu-nity. Previous Baxter business advisory council committee member. Current and active member of the GLAR govern-mental affairs committee.

What do you want to accomplish if elected: My priorities are first to increase the communication level between city and business. Make it easier for business to be heard and streamline the processes for growth and development. Maintain and improve the city’s infrastructure. Define Baxter’s character and identity keeping the parks, trails and open space in mind. The city of Baxter has grown in the past 15 years despite the barriers and lack

of communication with business communi-ty. We need to strengthen our communication ty. We need to strengthen our communication and increase our execution of the city’s new and increase our execution of the city’s new and increase our execution of the city’Comprehensive Plan. Improve management of our growth and development, increase head of household employment opportunities.

Specifically how would you accomplish your goals: I will stay involved, regularly attend business advisory council meetings. Hold open morning or lunch meetings for business leaders to have a place to talk about and discuss openly questions and concerns. I will always have an open door policy and make sure I am available to our citizens. My customer service skills are second to none. I have an open mind, listen to

all the options and make a good, sound deci-sion. As a current member of the Governmental Affairs committee for the GLAR and previousmember of the Baxter Business Advisory Com-mittee, I am well prepared.

Rock YliniemiQualifications: Baxter resident since

1988. Local business owner. Chairman of Baxter Utilities Commission. Serve on the Long Range Planning Committee. Serve on the Crow Wing County Planning and Zoning/Board of Adjustment.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: I would like to promote Baxter as a destination for shopping, food and recre-ation. With the mix of different businesses and a variety of places to eat and also with what the surrounding lakes has to offer, we are no longer a place to just pass through on the way to the cabin. I would like to at-tract manufacturing jobs to Baxter to pro-vide good paying jobs. I would promote InterInter-government cooperation between -government cooperation between Inter-government cooperation between InterInter-government cooperation between InterBrainerd, Crow Wing County, as well as

Crow Wing Township and Cass County.

Specifically, how would you accom-plish your goals?: I believe that with well maintained parks and roads, great schools and an attractive busi-ness corridor this will bring other businessesto locate to the city of Baxter. We may have to seek out the manufacturing jobs, and with the expansion of our Industrial Park in Baxter, we now need to encourage business growth to the area. The govern-ment cooperation comes with just going out and meeting our neighbors, and seeout and meeting our neighbors, and see-ing what their needs and challenges are.ing what their needs and challenges are.

Quinn NystromQualifications: For the past

12 years I’ve engaged local, state, and federal officials, working across party lines as a diabetes advocate. I’m ex-perienced in bringing people together to create a dialogueto address complex issues and find solutions. I’m finishing up

a master’s degree in communication management from Syracuse University.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?:Representative government should reflect its con-stituency. Despite the fact that 51 percent of the Baxter population is female, there are no women serving on the Baxter City Council. The average age of a Baxter citizen is 38 years old. As a 28-year-age of a Baxter citizen is 38 years old. As a 28-year-old woman, I would bring a fresh perspective and old woman, I would bring a fresh perspective and

much needed diversity to the Baxter City Coun-cil. Our city is in the midst of putting together a comprehensive plan for the future and we need a broad perspective representing all the citizens.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: How can we expect our residents to be involved if they’re not informed? Surveys indicate more people are turning to non-traditional sources for their news. Baxter needs to stay up-to-date with the current online trends including a comprehen-sive website presence and an extensive social me-dia platform, including Facebook, Twitter, Insta-gram and LinkedIn. Our communication strategy should not be one sided, we must develop forums where our constituents can express their views and communicate with their city officials. I’m a social media specialist for an area health care fa-cility and could lend my experience and expertise cility and could lend my experience and expertise to update Baxter’s communication plan. to update Baxter’s communication plan. to update Baxter’

Steve BarrowsQualifications: I am and have been a res-

ident and homeowner in Baxter for 18 years. I am retired and have the time and com-

mitment to give to this position.I have worked with large government I have worked with large government I ha

budgets. I have worked with many different partners and customers to get things done in my 28 years of service with the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: First, through a responsible budget, responsible growth management, and devel-oping strong relationships and partnerships to make our community stronger and health-ier. Secondly, to make sure Baxter is a desti-nation for continued growth in our commer-nation for continued growth in our commer-nation for continued growth in our commercial and residential neighborhoods. Third, to look for opportunities for better communica-

tion with stakeholders as tion with stakeholders as our community groour community grows.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: First, to make sure the budget addresses needs versus wants. Secondly, the budget addresses infra-structure maintenance, asset replacement needs, and financial needs for growth in our neigh-borhoods and commercial districts. Third, bring stakeholders, residents, and customerstogether to develop dialogue so outcomes best benefit the Baxter community. Fourth, work with administration to streamline pro-cesses where possible and to investigate and develop better communication methods with the community as a whole.

STEVEBARROWS

TOMHICE

QUINNNYSTROM

Charles Black LanceCharles Black LanceQualifications: I value

public education; I have three children ages 7, 5 and 3 years old. Professional-ly I have 15 years experi-ence directing academic support programs, serving and advocating for college and high school students. I have served on many lo-cal, regional and statewide

boards and organizations, including the Initia-tive Foundation.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: I want to join the team that assists a good school district reach exceptional status. I in-tend to help Brainerd position itself as a school district that excels at preparing students aca-demically and for business and career fields. I plan to support continued academic rigor for our youth through strong reading, math and science curriculum and standards. I want to

build upon the school district’s efforts to en-courage industry-recognized certifications, courage industry-recognized certifications, two-year, four-year and advanced degrees as valid career pathways. I desire to effectively serve all students by strengthening our com-mitment to recruit, retain and develop talented and effective employees.

How would you accomplish your goals?: I will encourage the school board to actively hear and effectively understand our commu-nity while building a strong relationship with community members. Employee and fiscal ca-pacity (the ability to do) building will strength-en our ability to serve students in an exception-al manner. I will advocate increased teacher and student performance through outstandingprofessional development opportunities for principals and teachers to consistently increase understanding of student learning, instruction and subject matter. I will champion the le-veraging of existing partnerships with Central Lakes College and local business and industryto provide alternative forms of instruction, re-source sharing and joint strategic planning.

Tom HaglinQ u a l i f i -

cations: Suc-cessful busi-ness owner with proven track record in building relationships with employ-ees, clients and vendors.

Sound financial management knowledge with ability to access return on investments and sound judgment for capital expendi-tures. Past and present member of several governing boards for nonprofit organizations. Five year school board member.

What do you want to accom-plish if elected?: Enhance our Long Range Planning process tosustain future goals, including comprehensive facility require-ments and continued open com-munication with our community.

Would like to see a more ro-bust use of technologies in all areas including classrooms, op-erations and services that are provided for continuous improve-ment.

Change the process of em-ployee wage/benefits negotia-tions from the current stressful process to one that is fully trans-

parent with a team approach that allows for greater cooperation for all involved.

Develop system that allows for “real-time” data back to stu-dents and teachers to provide “re-al-time” corrections and help to advance all students each day.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: Work with superintendent and ad-ministration to recognize and embrace the value of strategic planning with a sound system for establishing measurements.

Form a Technology/LEAN team within the district that char-team within the district that char-team within the district that charters and trains for continuous improvement, and develops others for identifying oppor-others for identifying oppor-others for identifying opportunities utilizing technology to enhance change and improve-ments in operation.

Work with department (union) representatives during budget process so they’re in-formed of district financial parameters; continue to work with representatives directly to establish future contracts.

Through use of technology, find ways to allow teachers more one-on-one time with students, utilizing the “re-al-time” data to shift and en-hance learning outcomes.

Chris RobinsonQualifications: In-

cumbent member of the Brainerd School Board, also past service as mayor of East Gull Lake, zoning commission member and utility commission mem-ber. Currently employed as an economic development professional following a 20-year career as an attor-20-year career as an attor-20-year career as an attorney. Husband and father of

two students in the Brainerd schools.What do you want to accomplish if elect-

ed?: Continuation of the outstanding academicand extracurricular programming currently in

place, while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Refinement of the “priority based” budgeting process and the creation and implementation of a long range facility plan that will allow for thoughtful, community driven, infrastructure planning for the future of the Brainerd Public Schools.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I will continue, as I have during my entire tenure on the school board, to advo-cate in all cases for making the right decisions, rather than the easy decisions. I will maintain strong relationships and have open dialogue with school district administration, staff and members of the public to ensure that I can help make well-informed and principled decisions for the future of ISD 181 and our students.

Bill CruzQualifications: Father of five children, have

worked in the public school system for many years as a Para Educator/Educational Assistant. Student of education at Bemidji State Univer-Student of education at Bemidji State Univer-Student of education at Bemidji State University where I’m completing requirements to become a licensed teacher after receiving my AAS, with honors, in Early Childhood Devel-opment and Guidance from CLC.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: I would like to take the politics out of our educational system. For too long this bu-reaucracy has operated unchecked and un-accountable while continuing to ask and get more taxpayer funds. Unlike the popular but more taxpayer funds. Unlike the popular but more taxpawrong perception of Conservatives, I do care about education and the children we are ob-ligated to educate, and have spent most of my adult life doing so. We are passing on a great debt onto our kids and they need to be able

to compete globally. We have to stop talking about doing better and actually do better.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I would re-engage the parents and teach-ers into the conversation, the school board is in fact working for those entities. I would also look at where the monies are being spent, why is it that teachers and support staff are the ones struggling to provide good educa-tion? How many administrators do we actually need? After school programs too, if we are tru-ly concerned about inactivity and obesity, why can’t we have after school programs that don’t strain a families check book. There are a num-ber of options out there, let’s look at them all.

Ruth NelsonQualifications: I am the current school

board chairperson and chairperson of the Curriculum Committee with nine years’ ex-perience on the board. During my tenure the board has hired two superintendents. I have a degree in business management from the Uni-versity of Minnesota and experience in public relations, marketing and management.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: I would continue to focus on strong cur- I would continue to focus on strong cur- I would continue to focus on strong curriculum, well-managed finances, appropri-ate class sizes, and communication with our stakeholders. In the past few years the board has lowered class sizes and has achieved an average of 25 students or less per grade in our elementary schools; we also added several teaching positions at Forestview. Last spring the board selected a new superintendent and we also began the year with a new director of teaching and learning and Community Educa-

tion director. With all these changes it is time for the hanges it is time for the board to take a fresh look at our long range plan.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: A board member must work with the rest of the board and administra-tion to set and accomplish goals. We will be review-ing and revising the district’s long range plan together and creating priorities that address the goals we identify. I hope to remain the chair of the Curriculum Committee

and will work with the director of teaching and learning to maintain our consistent review and adoption of curriculum. I have always felt it is important to visit our schools and class-rooms and will continue to listen to staff, stu-dents, parents, and the community at large.

Bob LorenoQualifications: My family and I have lived in Baxter

since 1989. My three children have attended Brainerd/Baxter schools and all have graduated from Brainerd High School. I’ve worked in the Brainerd area since 1989 at the local car dealerships as a business/finance manager.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: I do not have a specific agenda or single issue in mind. My goal is to simply help the school board make tough decisions concerning the students, the community and the school staff for the next four years. Where we spend our available funds is, I feel, the biggest challenge for the school board. Meeting that chal-lenge is something I would like to be involved with.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your

goals: By working with the other five members of the school board and the superintendent to make sure the best interests of the students, community and the school staff are carefully con-sidered and put into action. I feel I’m a good listener, a good numbers per-good listener, a good numbers per-good listener, a good numbers person and like to use “common sense” when it comes to problem solving.

RUTHNELSON

BOBLORENO

CHARLESBLACK LANCE

TOMHAGLIN

CHRISROBINSON

BILLCRUZ

ROCKYLINIEMI

■ U.S. SENATORSteve Carlson — Independence. Mike McFadden — Republican. Al Franken — Democratic-

Farmer-Labor.Heather Johnson — Libertarian.

■ GOVERNOR AND GOVERNOR AND GOLIEUTENANT GOVERNOR(Vote for one team)

Hannah Nicollet and Tim Gieseke— Independence.

Jeff Johnson and Bill Kuisle — Republican.

Mark Dayton and Tina Smith — Democratic-Farmer-Labor.

Chris Holbrook and Chris Dock — Libertarian Party.

Chris Wright and David Daniels — Grassroots-Legalize Cannabis.

■ SECRETARY OF STATEBob Helland — Independence.Dan Severson — Republican.Steve Simon — Democratic-

Farmer-Labor.Bob Odden — Libertarian Party.

■

Patrick Dean — Independence.Randy Gilbert — Republican.Rebecca Otto — Democratic-

Farmer-Labor.Keegan Iversen — Libertarian.Judith Schwartzbacker

— Grassroots-Legalize Cannabis.

■ ATTORNEY GENERALBrandan Borgos — Independence.Scott Newman — Republican.Lori Swanson — Democratic-

Farmer-Labor.Andy Dawkins — Green Party.Mary O’Connor — Libertarian Party.Dan R. Vacek — Dan R. Vacek — Dan R. Vacek Legal Marijuana Now.

■ NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT(No contested races)

John Solien — District Court 3.

David F. Harrington — District Court 4.

D. Korey Wahwassuck — District Court 5.

Charles “Chad” Leduc — District Court 6.

— District Court 11.Lois J. Lang

— District Court 12.Robert D. Tiffany

— District Court 14.Tamara L. Yon

— District Court 15.Jeffrey S. Remick

Jana Austad

— District Court 19.

David J. Ten Eyck

— District Court 21.

Kurt J. Marben

— District Court 22.

VOTER’S GUIDE www.brainerddispatch.com Thursday, October 16, 2014 S3Sometimes

campaigns can make things appear upside down.

Cut through the rhetoric. Visit www.crowwing.us and

view our County Board actions. Five consecutive years of

levy reductions is worthy work. On Nov. 4 re-elect Crow Wing County

Commissioner Paul Thiede.

001152642r1

Paid for by Friends of Paul Thiede

VOTER’S GUIDE www.brainerddispatch.com Thursday, October 16, 2014

U.S. Congress—8th DistrictU.S. Congress—8th DistrictU.S. Congress—8th DistrictRay ‘Skip’ SandmanRay ‘Skip’ Sandman

Party affiliation: Green Party.Qualifications: I represent peo-

ple and not corporations and that’s my best qualification. What I’m doing now is what makes me qual-ified as well as being a veteran and someone who was a union man for 25 years. As a common man, my ability to listen to the people will aid me.

What do you want to accom-plish if elected?: If elected I would like to accomplish: improved veterans benefits and VA improvements, improving our infrastructure, increasing minimum wage to $15 hr, create long term jobs in sustainable energy, stopping sulfide mining, create sustainable energy union jobs, decrease student debt, stop the ongoing practice of U.S. military police actions in for-ongoing practice of U.S. military police actions in for-ongoing practice of U.S. military police actions in foreign lands and place the needs of our nation before those of foreign lands , improve our educational sys-tems, protect our Second Amendment rights, close tax loopholes and hold corporations accountable for paying their fair share, end corporate subsidies that aid in making a future we don’t want.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I would hope to accomplish these goals by acting as a bridge between parties, by fighting to en-sure We the People are heard instead of big business being heard, by bringing fresh ideas and thinking out-side of the box, and by continuing to be a man of the people, for the people, who understands the real

Stewart MillsStewart MillsParty affiliation:Party affiliation: Republican. Republican.Qualifications: I’ve spent most

of my life working in our family business, most recently as vice president. I’ve worked to revolu-tionize our self-insured health care plan for over 6,000 employees. Obamacare and Democratic eco-nomic policies have had disastrous effects, but I’ll fight for policies thatwill bring jobs and growth.

What do you want to accom-plish if elected?: In Congress, I’ll focus on repealing and replacing Obamacare with patient-centered al-ternatives, strengthening Main Street businesses and protecting their employees with a flatter and fairer tax code, respecting our Constitutional freedoms, and working toward solving our financial problems. Ad-ditionally, I’ll support the timber and paper industries and mining families on the Iron Range by moving forward with projects like Polymet and Twin Metals. Another priority will be to work toward scaling back the overregulation of federal agencies like the EPA, as their harmful rules and undemocratic decisions are having real effects on our farming families.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: It’s unrealistic to think that one person out of 535 Members of Congress will be able to get any-thing done on their own. When I go to Washington, I’ll be dedicated to building relationships, working

across the aisle, and forming small and medium sized groups that will work together to find solutions and fight for policies that will help Minnesotans.

Rick NolanParty affiliation:

DFL.Qualifications: I have

represented Minnesota’s 8th District since 2013, sitting on the House Committees on Agricul-ture and Transportation and Infrastructure. I’m a father and grandfather from Crosby, married to Mary Nolan for 30 years, and a successful small-business own-er with decades of international business experience and a life-time of public service.

What do you want to accom-plish if elected?: I’ll continue working to expand the middle class by raising the national min-imum wage to $10.10 an hour; support Minnesota mining by enabling critical projects on the Iron Range to move forward – while making sure they adhere to the strictest environmental stan-dards; promote our timber indus-try and the jobs it supports; re-build our nation’s transportation system; protect Social Securityand Medicare from privatization;

by hiring more VA claims pro-cessors and expanding cessors and expanding access to healthcare;get the money out of our politics; and protect our lakes, rivers, and streams – and tourism industry – from invasive species.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I will con-tinue to work across the

aisle to rebuild America’s infra-structure by ending nation-build-ing abroad. My measure to cut $89 billion in unnecessary mil-itary construction projects in Afghanistan was recently passed in a bipartisan fashion by the House of Representatives; with those resources we could gradu-ate Minnesota’s college students debt free, or reduce the deficit.We need to cut unnecessary government programs, like the redundant $170 million USDA catfish inspection program I am working to eliminate. My “Re-store Democracy Act” would help remove the corruptive influ-ence of money from our politi-cal system by first and foremost

RAYSANDMAN

STEWARTMILLS

RICKNOLAN

Minnesota House District 10BMinnesota House District 10BMinnesota House District 10B

the people, for the people, wneeds of our citizens.

sized groups that will work together to find solutions and fight for policies that will help Minnesotans.

and Medicare from privatization; better serve our nation’s veterans

cal system by first and foremost overturning Citizens United.

Minnesota House District 10AMinnesota House District 10AMinnesota House District 10A

Dale LueckDale LueckParty affiliation: Republican.Qualifications: My experience includes

the following service; Aitkin County com-missioner, Aitkin County Planning Commis-sion, Mille Lacs Watershed Committee, past president Aitkin County Farm Bureau, sec-retary-treasurer Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association, Aitkin Housing Rehabilitation Authority, Church Council member and treasurer, 28 years U.S. Navy. Education: BS Occupation Health and Safety. Occupation: Cattle rancher.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: I will represent the citizens of Aitkin and Crow Wing Counties, not the liberal social agenda of the metro crowd. I will stand up for and protect public safety here in rural Min-nesota. I will provide common sense fixes and real oversight to MNsure, Minnesota’s version of Obama Care.

We must improve the business climate in the district and rebuild our crumbling trans-

ronment and have busi-nesses with good paying jobs locate here in rural Minnesota. I understand and believe in the con-servative Christian based social values of our dis-trict, I will represent those values.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I will always put the welfare of the citizens of our district ahead of pleasing special interest groups. The pipeline issue is just one example. I believe we must build modern safe oil pipelines now. Our current representative is playing Russian Roulette with public safety. He is on record effectively delaying pipeline construction, forcing more and more crude oil onto the rails. I will work to put crude oil into pipelines where it be-longs, not on unit trains rumbling through Brainerd, Deerwood, Aitkin, McGregor and Tamarack. You can count on me to focus our needs here in rural Minnesota.

Josh HeintzemanJosh HeintzemanParty affiliation: Republican.Qualifications: As a Thirty Lakes Wa-

tershed district manager, and former chair of the Crow Wing County Human Rights Commission, I’ve worked very closely with our district to accomplish goals that have benefited all of us - but the most important qualifier is that my traditional, hard-work-ing values reflect those of our district.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: Years ago, we had a state business climate that provided Minnesotans with long-term well-paying jobs, but Minneso-ta has become a state that is turning away those opportunities for future generations. Over the past eight years we have seen numerous large businesses leave the state, taking thousands of Minnesotan jobs along with them. We need to return to the prin-ciples that brought industry and prosperity ciples that brought industry and prosperity

to Minnesota by encour-y encour-y encouraging business growth, instead of discouraging it through high taxes and burdensome regulations.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: Minnesota has been barring business instead of promoting it. St. Paul has been receiv-ing the wrong message from our district - that we agree with business killing policiesand non-traditional values. I will bring our voice back to St. Paul and represent our communities in the fight against the take-over of our state’s future. We must end the attack on our businesses and values, fix the inequality between big-city and local school spending - and bring back the pol-icies that made Minnesota great.icies that made Minnesota great.

Joe RadinovichJoe RadinovichParty affiliation: Dem-

ocratic-Farmer-Labor.Qualifications: After

being elected in 2012, I spent my first term in St. Paul working hard on ini-tiatives to strengthen ru-ral Minnesota. With eight budget deficits and two government shutdowns in the last decade, we needed to make tough

decisions to put Minnesota back on the right track, and we did.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: During those 10 years of gimmicks and gridlock, many of Minnesota’s priorities were neglected. Property taxes doubled. College tuition doubled. Rural schools saw large cuts, too, and billions were eliminated from programs that support seniors and the disabled. Because of our willingness to fix the budget, Minnesota now has surpluses

forecasted into the future, and we’ve been recognized by national organizations like Forbes as one of the best places to do busi-ness.

We must ensure that the vision of a di-verse and strong economy supported by high quality infrastructure and an educat-ed workforce extends statewide, especially here in north central Minnesota.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: It may not seem this way based on election ads, but over 93 percent of leg-islation that became law during the last two years had bipartisan support. That’s a start, and Washington would do well to follow Minnesota’s example.

No two people will agree on every issue, but we need to continue to work together to find common solutions to our problems. No individual or political party has a mo-nopoly on good ideas. If I win, I’ll continue to work hard, be accessible to my constitu-ents, and make decisions in the interest of moving this state forward, not just getting

John WardJohn WardParty affiliation: DFL.Qualifications: Expe-

rience matters in elected office and I have eight years as the current state representative. I know and understand the leg-islative process and have had many legislative suc-cesses. I am in a leader-cesses. I am in a leader-cesses. I am in a leadership role at the House. I

have earned the trust and respect of fellow legislators from both parties.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: My top priority will be to continue to be responsive to you, my constituents, with your problems, questions, concerns or needs. Over the last eight years as your state repre-sentative, I have had the privilege and joy of quickly responding when you asked me for kly responding when you asked me for

help. I also want to continue to fight for the issues you have told me are important to you; creating living wage jobs, equitable fund-ing for your children’s education, providing property tax relief and working to protect our environment and natural resources are a few examples of what I hope to accomplish.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: As I have done the past eight years, I will continue to care, listen and work for all. I am very accessible in the commu-nity by being at every community function I am able to attend. I visit with and listen toas many folks as possible at these events. I regularly communicate through the media about topics/issues I feel are important to my constituents. I have positioned myself as a leader in the Minnesota House who is looked to for advice and input. My experi-ence, seniority and reputation will continue to help me in accomplishing mto help me in accomplishing my goals.y goals.

DALELUECK

JOSHHEINTZEMAN

JOERADINOVICH

JOHNWARD

U.S. SENATOR ■ STATE AUDITOR Anne M. Rasmusson — District Court 18.

the district and rebuild our crumbling transportation system. We can protect our envi-

Tamarack. You can count on me to focus our needs here in rural Minnesota.

disabled. Because of our willingness to fix the budget, Minnesota now has surpluses

moving this state forward, not just getting re-elected.

Statewide offices on the ballotStatewide offices on the ballotStatewide offices on the ballot

Candidate ListingsCandidate Listings

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CASS COUNTY SHERIFF FROM 2011 - PRESENTAs your Sheriff I am proud of the many accomplishments our office has

made and the level of service that we continue to provide to the Citizensand Visitors of Cass County.

3 2 Investigators Assigned to Drug Investigations

3 Cops in Schools Initiative

3 Cross-Trained Staff for Increased Efficiency

3 Supervisors - Additional officers on Patrol Throughout the County

3 Completion of the ARMER Radio System

3 Built a Community Based Community Policing Agency

3 Increased Community Interaction and Involvement through monthly

3 Outreach Days, Sheriff Corner Articles Website and Social Media Initiatives

3 Partnerships with Community Organizations County Wide

3 Decreased Average Call Response Time County Wide Under 10 Minutes Utilizing GPS/AVL Dispatching

3 Migration to a County-Wide Records Management System

3 Predatory Offender Tracking and Monitoring

3 Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention and Enforcement Initiatives

3 Developed a Teen CERT (Teen Community Emergency Response Team)

PROVEN • EFFECTIVE • EFFICIENT“COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITIES NEEDS”

www.burchforsheriff.comPaid for by the committee to elect Tom Burch for Cass County Sheriff, Kay Lego

Treasurer - PO Box 185, Remer, MN 56672

VOTER’S GUIDE www.brainerddispatch.com Thursday, October 16, 2014

Minnesota House District 9AMinnesota House District 9AMinnesota House District 9A

Minnesota House District 9BMinnesota House District 9BMinnesota House District 9B

Minnesota House District 5AMinnesota House District 5AMinnesota House District 5A

Mark AndersonMark AndersonParty Affiliation: Republican.Qualifications: I am a Chris-

tian conservative, a pro-life family man, a business owner/employer, a professional pilot and a Minnesota taxpayer with 56 years of life experiences.

What do you want to do if elected: The people of central Minnesota need immediate tax relief, less bureaucracy and re-lief from over regulation of busi-nesses and farming. I will focus on repealing bad policies which are causing all of the above problems. And I vow to protect our veterans and senior citizens because they are worth it.because they are worth it.

S p e c i f i --cally, how would I ac-complish my goals: I seek to restore the p r inc ip le s , l im i ta t ions and common sense of the M i n n e s o t a Constitution to the Legislature. I support putting students first, individual responsibility, per-individual responsibility, per-individual responsibility, personal property rights and the Second Amendment. I believe in small limited government; this includes term limits as well as spending limits.as spending limits.

Al DotyAl DotyParty affiliation: DFL.Qualifications: Family farm background; po-

litical science degree, University of Minnesota; teacher/wrestling coach/technology coordinator Pierz High School; Horizon Health senior advo-cate; two-term state representative; Royalton City Council; field representative for Congressman Rick Nolan; Morrison County Adult Protection Team; Morrison County Public Transportation Advisory Board; Camp Ripley Citizen’s Advisory Committee.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: Strengthening the middle class, especiallyin greater Minnesota, was my priority when I served in the Legislature before, and that would continue if I’m elected again. Specifically, that means working with both parties and the metro majority to ensure that state funding formulas for rural hospitals, nursing homes, schools and infra-structure give our part of the state a level playing field. I authored bills for sevfield. I authored bills for several area communieral area communi-

ties that brought construction ties that brought construction jobs and lasting business gainsto our area. I’d continue those efforts so that we can move forward here without adding the entire cost to our local property taxes.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: Good legislators understand their district, and vote for that district rather than their party. Good legislators also must understand the political process and be able to work with it. I’m experienced at local,

state and national levels of government, and I have a political science degree. I know how gov-ernment is supposed to work, and I know that it doesn’t always work well for the citizens it’s supposed to serve. I’ve always measured legis-lation by seeing if it really helps the people. I’ll continue to do that if elected. I urge voters to check voting records at www.house.mn. check voting records at www.house.mn.

Dan ByeDan ByeParty affiliation: DFL.Qualifications: I attended Pequot

Lakes High School, earned my as-sociate’s degree from Central Lakes College, Brainerd, served one year Americorps in Duluth Schools, and studied biology at the University of Wisconsin.

I live with my wife and two chil-dren in Cass County. My work history has mostly been in food service.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: It is vital for those of us in greater Minnesota to have a strong voice in St. Paul advocating for our interests. Advancing the social and economic conditions of rural Minnesota is vital to the success of our children and the survival of our communities. We can do this through responsible investment in rural infrastructure, equitable funding for investment in rural infrastructure, equitable funding for

our school districts, accessible higher education beyond the metro area, and a health care system that provides for the needs of all Minnesotans. Encouraging small business, family based agriculture, Minnesota based en-ergy production, and investment in rural schools will be my priorities.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?:Examples include: PACE (property assessed clean ener-Examples include: PACE (property assessed clean ener-Examples include: PACE (property assessed clean energy) funding mechanisms can be opened up to private investors statewide for Minnesota Generated power projects as well as residential projects. If encouraged ef-fectively this would be a boon to rural business while of-fering long-term savings on the costs of doing business.

The state can partner with providers to deliver broad-band internet capabilities to rural residents.

Whenever possible healthcare “pools” should be opened up to include greater numbers of workers to reduce costs. I would support SF 118/HF 135 in seek-ing a waiver from the Affordable Care Act to administer healthcare for all Minnesotans.healthcare for all Minnesotans.

Ron KreshaRon KreshaParty affiliation:

Republican.Qualifications: I

have been married 21 years with five children and have always prioritized family and commu-nity values. Outside of my family, I am

an educator, business owner, and com-munity servant. I understand the risks of running businesses and the failures ofnot taking care of community needs.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: In the last session as a state representative, I focused on education reform and reducing the skills gap to help students be successful employees. I will continue to advocate for improved long-term care funding and will push for long-term care funding and will push for

improved broadband access. I will con-tinue to support our veterans and the rights of our family farms.

Specifically, how would you ac-complish your goals?: My business experience has built a foundation of getting people together who are in-terested in solving problems. I’m not afraid to find coalitions of people who are bold and able to reform our school funding and academics or improve the long-term care funding formula for our rural care facilities. My strength is that I find ways around obstacles to get to solutions. For example in the last ses-sion, I found common ground with my colleagues on the Women’s Economic Security Act and was able to fund the State Veteran’s Trail in our area. I will keep building on these successes.keep building on these successes.

John PersellJohn PersellParty affiliation: DFL.Qualifications: I am a husband, father and

grandfather with a firm belief that opportunity in Minnesota should be available to all who are willing to put forth effort and that Minne-

sota will look out for children and elders and those who may need assistance to achieve their goals.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: To continue the good work started over the last several years toward making Min-nesota a good place to live, work, raise a family and get a good education.

Specifically, how would you accomplish these goals?: I will

work to keep or improve the policies started at the state over the work to keep or improve the policies started at the state over the last several years including balancing the state budget without gimmicks, providing funding to meet the needs of students and parents in both our K-12 and higher education institutions, sound environmental quality management that fits our diverse natural resource base, incentives for economic development and job creation, and looking after our children and elders.

MARKANDERSON

ALDOTY

DANBYE

RONKRESHA

JOHNPERSELL

Phillip Nelson — no reply receivedPhillip Nelson — no reply received

Minnesota House District 5BMinnesota House District 5BMinnesota House District 5BTom AnzelcTom Anzelc

Party affiliation: DFL.Qualifications: Elected four times to Leg-

islature. Service as teacher, coach, labor of-islature. Service as teacher, coach, labor of-islature. Service as teacher, coach, labor official, county commissioner, father of three, grandfather of four.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-

ed?: The past two year’s work at the state Capitol has resulted in a growing state economy, a balanced state budget, historic increas-es in public education funding and tax cuts for the middle class. Progress has been made, but more must be done. Transportation infrastructure for northern Minnesota, higher education access and affordability and the state-county child protection system are some of my top goals. Narrowing the funding gap between metro and northern Minnesota is an ongoing effort as well.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: Law-making at the state Capitol requires research, the willingness to listen to the people here at home, the art of advocacy and per-vocacy and per-vocacy and persuasion and a passion for representative democracy. Rural and northern Minnesota deserve a representative with these skills. I will work to the best of my ability to negotiate fairly with mem-bers of both parties to find solutions for northern Minnesota.

TOMANZELC Justin Eichorn — no reply receivedJustin Eichorn — no reply received

Brainerd City CouncilBrainerd City CouncilMayor: Guy Green, James Wallin.Mayor: Guy Green, James Wallin.Ward 2: Dirk C. Vanderwerker, Kelly

J. Bevans.Ward 4: Gabe Johnson, Dale Parks.At-large: Dolly Matten, Sue Hilgart.

Baxter City Council(Elect two): Steve Barrows, Tom Hice,

Rock Yliniemi, Quinn Nystrom.

Brainerd School Board(Elect three) : Ruth Nelson,; Bill Cruz,

Chris Robinson, Charles Black Lance, Tom Haglin, incumbent; Bob Loreno.

U.S. House of RepresentativesRick Nolan, Stewart Mills III, Ray Skip

Sandman.Minnesota House District 10A: John

Ward, Josh Heintzeman.

LegislatureHouse District 10B: Joe Radinovich,

Dale Lueck.House 9A: Rep. Mark Anderson, Dan

Bye.House 9B: Rep. Ron Kresha, Al Doty.House 5A: John Persell, Phillip

Nelson.House 5B: Tom Anzelc, Justin Eichorn.

Crow Wing CountyCommissioner District 2: Kurt Martin,

Paul Thiede.Commissioner District 3: Jeff Czeczok,

Rachel Reabe Nystrom.Commissioner District 4: Rosemary

Franzen, Beth Pfingsten.Auditor-treasurer: Deborah A. (Goble)

Erickson, Paul Koering.Recorder: Doug Hansen, Mark Liedl.

Aitkin CountyCommissioner District 1: Robert Commissioner District 1: Robert

“Bob” A. Hartwarth, J. Mark Wedel.Commissioner District 3: Paul Bailey,

Roberta Elvecrog, Donald Niemi.Commissioner District 5: Anne

Marcotte, Galen N. Tveit (Tweet).

Cass CountyCommissioner District 4: Scott D.

Bruns, Garr Pemberton.Sheriff: Tom Burch, Wayne Tennis.

Morrison CountyCommissioner District 4: Jim Andres,

Ronald N. Rinkel, Mike Wilson.Auditor-treasurer: Tammy Giuliani,

Debora L. Lowe. Ashley Storck.Sheriff: Shawn Larsen, Dan

Rocheleau.

Todd CountyCommissioner District 2: Kevin A.

Boyer and Gary Kneisel.County sheriff: Don Asmus and

Lonnie K. Marcyes.

Wadena CountyCommissioner District 1: Sheldon

Monson and Ron Noon.Commissioner District 3: Andrew

Schock and Bill Stearns.Commissioner District 5: David

Hillukka and David Schermerhorn.

Aitkin (city)Aitkin City Council (Elect two): Julie

Miller, Amanda MacDonald, Keith Nentl, Tom Fiedler.

BackusMayor: Kurt Sawyer.Special election council: Karl Flier.

Backus council (Elect two): Ann M. Backus council (Elect two): Ann M. Birge, Rae Borst.Birge, Rae Borst.

Breezy PointMayor: Tom Lillehei.Council (elect two): Michael Maroni,

Gary Bakken.

Cass LakeMayor: Wayne Laduke.Special election council: Lenny

Fineday.Council (elect two): Kevin Gallagher.

CrosbyMayor: James J. Hunter, Joanna

Lattery, Arnold Lahd.Council (elect two): Liz Hofmann,

Christopher Ryan, Paul Heglund, Tom Jacobson, Sandy Blood, Jim Goshey, Vern Pankratz, Patrick Radtke, Craig Paul, Dale Sova.

CrosslakeMayor: Darrel Schneider, Steve Roe,

Darrin Mitchell.Council (elect two): David H.

Schrupp, Jeff Bisson, Bradley B. Nelson, Peter Abler, Douglas C. Steele, Patty Norgaard, Darrell Shannon.

DeerwoodNo contested races.

East Gull LakeNo contested races.

EmilyMayor: Roger “Buddy” Lund.Council (elect two): Jan Heinig

Mosman, Bill Spiess, Laura A.C. Leckband.

See CANDIDATES Page S5

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ElectBeth PfingstenCrow Wing County Commissioner

Beth and Tom with their children and grandchildren

Excellent Listener

Experienced Problem Solver and Communicator

Proven Leader

Fresh Vision

bethapfingsten@gmail.com

“As your commissioner, I will listen to your concerns and provide outstanding service to

Crow Wing County”

Vote November

4th

“Paid for by Beth Pfingsten on her own behalf ”

PINE RIVER-BACKUS SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION

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We Appreciate Your Support!2 Year Term:

Michael Griep

4 Year Terms:Lee Aimers • R ichie Bean

Liz Dahl (write-in candidate)

Paid for by Michael Griep2304 16th Ave SW

Pine River, MN 56474

VOTER’S GUIDE www.brainerddispatch.com Thursday, October 16, 2014 S5

Crow Wing County Commissioner Crow Wing County Commissioner Crow Wing County Commissioner (District 2)

Crow Wing County Commissioner Crow Wing County Commissioner Crow Wing County Commissioner (District 3)

Crow Wing County Commissioner Crow Wing County Commissioner Crow Wing County Commissioner (District 4)

Kurt MartinQualifications:Qualifications: I’ve operated a high I’ve operated a high

technology business for nearly 30 years in the county. Both my upbringing within the county and my business operations have provided expertise in business management and finances that are not only unique, but also provide the experience to effectively apply them to county government.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: My primary goal would be eco-nomic development and more specifical-ly, jobs. While other regions of the state have or are recovering from the recession, we still continue to hemorrhage jobs and rank at or near the highest in unemploy-ment. I would seek to remove those barri-ers and limitations that differentiate Crow Wing County from those regions whose economies have not only recovered, but are thriving.

Specifically, how would you accomplish Specifically, how would you accomplish

your goals?: My primary goal would be to reverse goal would be to reverse the plus-80 percent in-crease in property tax levy imposed by past and present county com-missioners. I would also seek to repeal the imper-seek to repeal the imper-seek to repeal the impervious surface limitations enacted by a majority of the present county com-missioners. These limitations dramatically impacted the viability of lakeshore redevel-opment and, in turn, construction and real estate marketing jobs. The so called “sci-ence” utilized to support these limitations was not only poorly conducted, it was not relevant to county population and water body densities. Moreover, sound scientific studies have established this ordinance re-vision was a leap backwards in water pro-tection. tection.

Rachel Reabe NystromQualifications: Qualifications: My eight years on the My eight years on the

Crow Wing County Board have been eye-opening. County government can be a wonderful system to provide services at a reasonable cost for its citizens. I chair a statewide think tank for innovative govern-ment. Constituents, colleagues and staff tell me I am an effective problem solver.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: Our county board and staff are accomplishing great things. We’ve cut the county levy each of the last five years by combining our departments and reducing our work force. Despite these economies, customers tell us that service has never been better. Online permitting allows resi-dents to accomplish county business from home.

Last year Crow Wing County was rec-ognized nationally for our clean water regulations, ensuring our lakes and rivers will remain clean and healthy for genera-tions to come. Who wouldn’t want to live in Croin Crow Wing County? Our county goals w Wing County? Our county goals

are simple. Serve well. Deliver value. Drive reDeliver value. Drive re-sults.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals? As a coun-ty commissioner, I am a policy maker and will continue to direct our administrative team and department heads to streamline government. We have had great success in reorganizing departments and will continue that work. I will explore additional shared services with surround-ing counties with the goal of better and cheaper government.

We’re moving to performance based pay for our employees. The days of work-ers collecting a paycheck just for showing up to work are over. High performers are rewarded and lackluster employees can expect lower wages and possible termi-nation. Our customers expect us to spend their taxes carefullytheir taxes carefully.

Beth PfingstenQualifications: Qualifications: I have a bachelor’s of I have a bachelor’s of

science degree from St. Cloud State Uni-versity and spent 34 years doing crisis social work for Crow Wing County. I’m a graduate of the Blandin Leadership Pro-gram, am a proven leader and have vol-unteered my service to various boards and commissions the past 35 years.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: I would continue to work on ways to decrease costs while provid-ing excellent service. We need to en-sure that our citizens have good roads, a strong public safety system and have appropriate safety nets in place, along with preserving our beautiful natural resources. Setting policies and giving di-rection to departments to carry out these actions, along with providing them nec-essary assets to be successful, should be

the board’s mission. Specifically, how Specifically, how

would you accom-plish your goals?: I would bring fresh eyes and vision to the Crow Wing County Board with my exten-sive knowledge of our county government, having worked for and with many of the departments. I view this opportunity as one of service, not a job. The citizens of District 4 deserve a strong voice on the board. My skill set of listening, problem solving, communicat-ing and strong leadership will be evident in my role as a policy maker as I advo-cate for them. Our citizens work hard for their money and I would be fiscally pru-dent while ensuring excellent service.

Paul ThiedeQualifications:Qualifications: Several Several

years of unique legislative leadership experience, having owned a business, and having represented several association mem-berships, all contribute to what I have brought to the county board table. I be-lieve effective leadership

comes from encouraging and drawing the best out of others as we have done in the county.

Accomplish: Balancing our economic needs with retaining our unique and de-sirable world-class environment is essen-tial. The national awards we have received show leadership in helping our taxpayers do the right things in the right ways for the right reasons. Lowering our tax levy helps businesses be able to employ more peo-ple and retain those jobs we already have. ple and retain those jobs we already have.

Increasing our road improvement index is important, as is maintaining the attitude important, as is maintaining the attitude that our employees are here to serve you. The current county board has charted the course of better results with innovation, adaptability and efficiency. That trend must continue into the future.

Specificity: My desire is to continue the trend in county government that encourages a pay-as-you-go attitude, performance based pay to reward effective leadership from top to bottom, and an honest budgetary review to minimize unnecessary fund balances which leaves more dollars in the taxpayers’ pockets. Paying down our debt to be debt-free in 2020 leaves ample opportunity to evaluate prior-leaves ample opportunity to evaluate prior-leaves ample opportunity to evaluate priorities for the necessities and consider which niceties to fund. Evaluate the quality of ser-aluate the quality of ser-aluate the quality of service and attitude of our employees now as compared to eight years ago … our progress is phenomenal as we help each other do the best with all our efforts.best with all our efforts.

Jeff CzeczokQualifications:Qualifications: Active

within local government for many years. Since 1996, Brainerd’s Transportation Committee. Since 2012, Airport Commission. Since 2013, Bikeable Walkable Committee. Research issues thoroughly and seek citizen

input. Excellent understanding of Open Meet-ing Law and Data Practices regulations. Regu-larly reviewing applicable state statutes in order to ensure the public’s trust.to ensure the public’s trust.to ensure the public’

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: My involvement in local government has always been to hold government accountable by instilling and maintaining the public’s trust in our elected officials.

Citizens often times find themselves too busy or nervous about challenging units of government or their elected officials when they feel they’re not being heard or rules aren’t being adhered to.

Have corrected Crow Wing County when Have corrected Crow Wing County when

they’ve overcharged citizens for documents by 400 percent.400 percent.

Have notified Crow Wing County of laws mandating provision of documents for the pub-lic’s review during meetings.

Corrected Crow Wing County when they’ve incorrectly interpreted data practice laws and when they’ve not followed statute to record specific meetings.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I will strive to hold government ac-countable by thoroughly reviewing all provid-ed information and conducting further research when necessary.

If mistakes are made, I will admit them when they occur and I’ll not be condescending to-ward individuals that identify said mistakes.

It will be my obligation to make certain the public’s perception of CWC is maintained at a very high level.

Whenever appropriate, I’ll try to bring forth potential policy when it applies to encourag-ing greater accountability and better public perception. Accountability is paramount to an effective government, when pertaining to what people can rely on and believe in. people can rely on and believe in.

Rosemary Franzen

Qualifications: Current county commissioner, repre-senting Brainerd, Baxter, Un-organized and Lake Edward. Reduced levy five straight years. National awards for improved services, water

planning and restructuring. Helped bring in $2 million in federal funds for our roads. Restored more property rights to citizens with our zoning ordinance revisions and improved environmen-tal protection.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: We have reduced taxes five straight years by re-structuring and eliminating duplication of ser-structuring and eliminating duplication of ser-structuring and eliminating duplication of services. Eighty-nine percent of customers surveyed tell us they are happy with our services. This is

a huge improvement over where Crow Wing County was a few years ago. You deserve to be County was a few years ago. You deserve to be served in a friendly and timely manner. While we have accomplished much, more must be done. It has been a new day for Crow Wing County - more efficiency, improved customer service and lower costs. I’m not done yet and I would be hon-ored to have your vote to finish the job.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: We’re never done improving cus-tomer service and eliminating duplication. My goal is to hold the line and, better yet, reduce property taxes, as I have done for five straight years. If re-elected, I’ll continue to listen to my constituents and be a voice for the people of District No. 4. I’ll never forget that we’re spend-ing your hard-earned money and that it needs to be stretched absolutely as far as it can go. I will not rest because that job is never done. I would be honored to continue to serve as your county commissioner. I ask for your vote.

KURTMARTIN

RACHELREABE NYSTROM

BETHPFINGSTEN

PAULTHIEDE

JEFFCZECZOK

ROSEMARYFRANZEN

Fifty LakesMayor: Tim Anick, Richard

Schiller.Council: (elect two): Gordy

Reller, Steve Biwer, Ken Hersey, Steve O’Bryan, Jodie Schrupp, Fred Stroheimer.

GarrisonMayor: Bruce A. Pierson,

Pat Carlson.Council (elect two): Kristi

A. Risness, William “Bill” E. Stimac, Bruce Breun, Greg G. Auchter.

City clerk/treasurer: Cathy Thompson.

HackensackNo contested races.

IrontonMayor: Dean French.Council (elect two): Debra

L. Bergsnev, Eric J. Heglund, Gloria Perpich, Steven Cady.

Special election council: Clark Hamdorf.

JenkinsMayor: Jon Lubke.Council (elect two): Donna

Stricker, William Ellis, Tim Hidde, Charles Hoffman.

Special election council: Christopher Teich.

Lake ShoreNo contested races.

Little FallsMayor: Greg Zilka, Cathy

Vanrisseghem, Robin Hensel.Council at-large: Kim

Schmidt, Don Klinker, Urban Otremba.

Council Ward 1: Lee Ann Doucette, Leif Hanson.

Council Ward 2: Wayne Liljegren, Theresa Skorseth.

Council Ward 3: Jeremy Hanfler.

Manhattan BeachNo contested races.

NisswaMayor: Harold Kraus, John

Ryan.Council (elect two): Don

Jacobson, Joseph Meyer, Ross Krautkremer.

Council special election: Fred Heidmann, Foster “Woody” Haecker, Gregg Sellner.

Pequot LakesMayor: Dave Sjoblad, David

Kennedy.Council (elect two): Jerry

Akerson, Gregg Karr, Randy Loukota.

PierzMayor: Toby Egan, Dennis

Kahlhammer.Council (elect two): Mark

Dzieweczynski, Stephanie L. Fyten, Mike Menden, Rick Sczublewski.

PillagerMayor: Paul Odenthal, Sue

Vanhal.Council: No contested

races.

Pine RiverMayor: Lynn M. Hollaran,

Tamara Hansen.

Council (elect two): Tony DeSanto, Patty Melby, Mark Edwards, Debra Ostlund.

Council special election: Gary Siltman, Tammy Hamilton.

Crosby-Ironton School Board

(Elect three) Barbara Neprud, Tom Nixon, Joe Dwyer, Michael Domin.

RivertonNo contested races

Pequot Lakes School Board

No contested races.

Pillager School BoardNo contested races.

Pine River Backus School Board

(Elect four) Lee Aimers, Richie Bean, Katy Lee Botz, Leslie Bouchonville, Garny Gaffey, Jason Marcum, Jerry Peterson, Sandy Poferl, Dawn Rubner.

Special election Pine River-Backus School Board: Michael A. Griep, David Sheley.

CANDIDATES, From Page S4

VOTER’S GUIDE www.brainerddispatch.comS6S6 Thursday, October 16, 2014

VOTE for WARDNovember 4th

WARD Listened & Worked Hard to:

Experience Matters

Help Move Minnesota forWARD!www.voteforward.net - 218-828-3626

Prepared and Paid for by the Committee to Elect John Ward. P.O. Box 582, Brainerd, MN 56401

• Solve Jaycee Fishing Extravaganza Transportation Issue• Increase Funding for Teen Challenge Program• Resolve Jenkins Snowplowing Issue• Guarantee Lyme Disease Treatment Options• Provide a Way to Fund Local Airport Improvements• Increase Resources for AIS Prevention• Advocate for ALL of YOU!

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DEBORAH (GOBLE) ERICKSON

CROW WING COUNTYAUDITOR-TREASURER

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT - AND REMEMBER TO VOTE ERICKSON NOVEMBER 4TH!

www.ericksonaudtres.weebly.comPrepared and paid for by Deborah (Goble) Erickson on her own behalf

Choose Experienced Leadershipfor Crow Wing County

14-5038-Ad.qxp_Layout 1 9/30/14 1:42 PM Page 1

VOTER’S GUIDE www.brainerddispatch.com Thursday, October 16, 2014

Crow Wing County Auditor-treasurerCrow Wing County Auditor-treasurerCrow Wing County Auditor-treasurerDeborah (Goble) EricksonDeborah (Goble) Erickson

Qualifications: Qualifications: I have a BA degree in I have a BA degree in management and over 20 years experience with Crow Wing County including five years as the elected auditor. I hold certi-fications in Property Tax Calculation and Elections Administration and possess the knowledge of the organization and the de-partment and the skills to offer experienced leadership.

What do you want to accomplish if

elected?: While we have made several advances in modern-izing our procedures and services, there are still significant izing our procedures and services, there are still significant areas where we could increase inter-departmental coopera-tion and improve processes. I would like to continue to find ways to provide additional services on the customer’s time frame and improve communication with the public to allow for interactive contact and ease of access to public informa-tion. Technology continues to play a big role in how we con-duct our business, but we need to make sure the systems we employ are cost-effective and provide maximum benefit to the organization and the public.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: I

believe there are opportunities to look at structure changes believe there are opportunities to look at structure changes within the organization to reduce the amount of touch-points within the organization to reduce the amount of touch-points certain processes have to go through to be completed. I’ve spearheadedefforts to offer online opportunities for business licensing, and I think there are additional areas where we can enhance this option. Continued cooperation between departments and technology solutions that consider the over-departments and technology solutions that consider the over-departments and technology solutions that consider the overall needs of the organization will also help contain costs and offer better customer services. My knowledge of the services offered and the different systems we employ will make me the best person to lead this effort.

DEBORAHERICKSON

Paul Koering — no reply receivedPaul Koering — no reply received

Crow Wing County RecorderCrow Wing County RecorderCrow Wing County RecorderMark Liedl

Qualifications: Qualifications: Twenty-five years manTwenty-five years man-agement experience in private and pub-lic sectors. Small business owner, Culver’s Restaurant in Baxter. Former assistant coun-ty attorney, representing the Recorder’s Of-fice. Since 2007, Crow Wing County Land Services director. Community Service Expe-rience: Pequot Lakes School Board, St. Jo-seph’s/Essentia Foundation Board, Interfaith Caregivers Board, youth sports coach.

What do you want to accomplish if elect-ed?: My focus is to improve service to our customers while eliminating unnecessary spending of tax dollars. Currently, the county recorder and the land services director both are department head positions, each with a department-head salaries. I would integrate the duties of these two positions – as 14 oth-er counties have already done – and save $500,000 in salary and benefits costs over the next four years. I think in doing so, we will also improve our services significantly, eliminating separate departmental “silos,”

which will foster better which will foster better communication and coorcommunication and coor-communication and coor-communication and coordination among staff, and more consistent, excellentservice to taxpayers.

Specifically, how would you accomplish your goals?: My record as Land Services director demonstrates how we can improve services, reduce costs. We successfully integrated five depart-ments into one, reduced spending by $4 mil-lion, and earned more

than a dozen awards for innovation and service excellence from numerous organi-zations. We can achieve excellent service at lower cost, if we have the experience and leadership to achieve it. My department bud-get for 2015 reduces tax levy spending by an-other 6 percent. The Recorder’s Office budget increases levy spending by 5.6 percent. This illustrates two completely different philoso-phies, accomplishments and visions for the future in this county recorder election.

Doug HansenQualifications: Qualifications: As

deputy recorder/reg-istrar of titles for the Crow Wing County Recorder’s office, I am accountable for su-pervision of assigned program(s) including service delivery, per-service delivery, per-service delivery, performance management and staff supervision. I have worked for the

county for over 13 years. I also work with county departments to streamline work processes.

What do you want to accomplish if elected?: As county recorder I will con-tinue our mission to preserve and provide accurate records of real property docu-ments in which any member of the public can readily access. The county recorder’s office is one of the few departments with-in the county that generate more revenue

than it expends. I will continue to look atways to provide the most efficient, cost ways to provide the most efficient, cost effective service to our customers, while maintaining our outstanding customer service. As county recorder, my goal is to provide a single location for customers to transfer and record all real estate docu-ments.

Specifically, how would you accom-plish your goals?: As county recorder, I will ensure the successful project comple-tion to scan all of the recorded historical documents. Upon completion, all real es-tate documents will be accessible to the public from our website. I will continueto utilize my continuous improvement process and technology background to gain work process efficiencies. I will con-tinue to collaborate with the county audi-tor-treasurer’s office to establish a single location where customers can have their real estate documents transferred and re-corded. I support your constitutional right to vote, as county recorder I believe this should not be an appointed position.

MARKLIEDL

DOUGHANSEN

Two questions will go before Brainerd voters on the ballot.

“I think people will be hesitant if they think their taxes will go up, but if they realize the implications if they don’t pass it, they’ll vote for it,” said Mayor James Wallin.

The first ballot question will ask voters if they sup-port extending the existing local option sales tax (LOST)by 0.5 percent to fund an upgraded waste treatment facility between the city and Baxter, as well as water infrastructure and trail im-provements with any funds not used for the facility.not used for the facility.not used for the facility

Voting yes would mean extending the tax for anoth-er 18 years or until an addi-tional $15 million is raised (above the amount origi-nally authorized amount to pay for $22.03 million in wastewater treatment facil-ity bonds).

Baxter voters will also be asked this question.

Should voters turn it down, residents will see much higher water and sewer bills, said Brainerd City Council President Dale Parks.

“We still have sever-“We still have sever-“We still have several million in bonds left to pay,” he said. “The only way to do that is through raising water and sewer bills (if the ballot question is turned down).”

The second ballot ques-tion will ask Brainerd vot-ers if they support issuing up to $1.13 million ingeneral obligation bonds to finance the following capital improvements: heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) upgrade at city hall and the police and fire sta-tions, a salt and sand storage building for the Public Works Facility, emergency prepared-ness upgrades at the Public Safety Facility, and the repair and reno-vation of the entry stairs at City Hall.

The projects were originally halted in De-cember 2013 after a petition with 311 valid signatures stopped the council from issuing the

signatures.That’s why the council is

going to the voters.Why are the projects

needed?● HVAC at city build-

ings: The failing system is unpredictable, staff say. When it does fail, repair-When it does fail, repair-When it does fail, repairmen are called in, which increases the cost in shortterm repairs, Parks said. Previous councils never set aside funds for the project, he added.

● Repair of City Hall steps: There’s a safety con-cern over the crumbling steps outside of the build-ing, Parks said.

● Salt and sand stor-Salt and sand stor-Salt and sand storage building: Exposing the salt supply to the rain may cause the salt to seep into the soil, Parks said, as well as diminish the costly supply. Some staff are con-cerned the Minnesota Pol-lution Control Agency may step in if salt is getting intothe soil.

● Emergency prepared-ness upgrades: If there was a long-term power outage in the city, the Police and Fire departments may not have access to communi-cations or computers, as there is not backup for their systems, Parks said.

Wallin compared the improvements in the sec-

ond ballot question to a car with a transmission going out.

“You have to fix it,” he said. “It will cost more money in the long run if you don’t.”

In the end, if voters turn down issuing the bonds for the improvements, Parks guesses the city will still get the projects done.

The only question is when and at what cost, he said.

“Right now budget is tight so can’t put something in for this year,” he said. “I think eventually they will get done, but I don’t know what things we’d have to sacrifice in order to do them.”

That might mean re-duced services to residents, he said.

Both cities currently have a one-half percent local options sales tax. Brainerd’s began April 1, 2007, while Baxter’s went into effect on Oct. 1, 2006. The LOST is set to expire March 31, 2019, (Sept. 30, 2018 for Baxter) or as early as 2016 in Baxter’s case as it is expected to collect its limit long before the time runs out. When the local option sales tax was first implemented, the goal was to fund and upgrade the shared wastewater treat-ment plant, expected to cost $30 million and otherwater infrastructure.

For Baxter, the local op-tion sales tax funded a por-tion sales tax funded a por-tion sales tax funded a portion of the water treatment plant, wastewater treat-ment plant and new water tower. Without it, the city reported, those costs would have led to increased city fees or property taxes.

More than 85 percent of the estimated sales tax gen-erated in Baxter is paid by non-Baxter households.

For Baxter Mayor Darrel Olson, the need to pass the local options sales tax is evident in the stormwater, water and sewer and road projects facing the city as it looks at needs for infra-structure that will add up to a lot of money..

The extension of the half-percent sales tax is through 2037 or when $40 million is generated for the approved projects and costs. With the extension, $32 million is earmarked to cover Baxter’s costs with the sanitary sewer, storm sewer, water projects and transportation safety im-provements. For the sales tax extension, the Minne-sota Legislature required a regional project. The Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport was approved as that regional component. The local option sales tax, $8 million of it, would be used to provide municipal sewer and water service for the airport’s operations and fire protection.

Baxter is proposing to fund $32 million of water - including payments on the

water treatment plant exist-ing debt service - sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and sewer, storm sewer, and sewertraffic safety improvements with proceeds from the ex-tension of the local option sales tax.

The city of Baxter esti-mates, the existing one-half percent LOST cost the av-erage Baxter family an ad-ditional $84 per year or 23 cents per day. On the other hand, the city estimates if the water and sewer treat-ment plants and water tower were funded with a propertytax levy instead, the proper-tax levy instead, the proper-tax levy instead, the property tax increase would have been $161 per year for the last seven years on a home valued at $175,000. In ad-dition, without the sales tax, the city reports the water and sewer bills for residen-tial users of 6,000 gallons of water per month would have increased $292 per year during the past seven years.

Because the city is is-suing bonds that will be backed by the city’s taxing authority, the ballot ques-tion language about the property tax increase is re-quired by state law.

The city noted the re-quired language does note the property tax increase is

only if sales tax revenues are not sufficient to pay the bonds. To date, the city not-ed, a property tax levy has not been necessary to pay the bonds and isn’t expect-ed if the sales tax extension is approved.

The ballot question is:Shall the city of Baxter

be authorized to extend an existing sales and use tax of one-half of one percent (0.5 percent) and a motor excise tax of up to $20 per motor vehicle and issue its general obligation bonds in an aggregate princi-pal amount not to exceed $40 million plus the costof issuing the bonds, to fi-nance the acquisition and betterment of sanitary sew-er, storm sewer and water projects, and transportation safety improvements and improvements to the Brain-erd Lakes Regional Airport?

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 4 at Lord of Life Church, Baxter City Hall, Assembly of God Youth Building and Forest-view Middle School. JESSIE PERRINE may be reached at jessie.perrine@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5859. Follow me on Twitter at www.twitter.com/brainerd-news.

Brainerd, Baxter voters to be asked special ballot questionsIn addition to electing representatives to city

council or mayoral seats, voters in Brainerd and

Baxter have questions to decide. IIn addition to electing representatives to city IIn addition to electing representatives to city

council or mayoral seats, voters in Brainerd and Icouncil or mayoral seats, voters in Brainerd and

Baxter have questions to decide. IBaxter have questions to decide.

Two questions will go before Brainerd voters on

“I think people will be hesitant if they think their taxes will go up, but if they realize the implications if they don’t pass it, they’ll vote for it,” said Mayor

bonds. Needed were 294

said. “It will cost more money in the long run if you don’t.”

down issuing the bonds for the improvements, Parks guesses the city will still get the projects done.

By JESSIE PERRINE& RENEE RICHARDSON

Staff Writers

Baxter have questions to decide.