What motivated you to run for office, and what perspective or experience would you bring to city leadership?

I was motivated to run for re-election because I want to continue serving the community and several residents reached out encouraging me to stay involved. After 8 years on the council, I have gained the experience and understanding of what is needed to serve and what is ahead for the City of Sauk Centre. My background in banking gives me experience with financial analysis and exposure to a range of business industries which helps me evaluate proposals, budgets, and development opportunities.

What does a business-friendly community look like to you, and where do you believe Sauk Centre is currently succeeding or has room to improve?

A business-friendly community is one where the government provides clear, predictable processes and avoids unnecessary regulations and costs that make it difficult for businesses to establish or expand. The City has been successful in the development of commercial/ industrial areas that have seen new businesses established at the former Interpretive Center site and the South Industrial park site. The city was able to help support the development of Tractor Supply through the construction and installation of Canna Avenue as another access point for traffic in that area.

Looking ahead five years, what would you like Sauk Centre to be known for, and what role should the City Council play in helping the community reach that vision?

In the next 5 years, I’d like Sauk Centre to be known as a growing community where people want to settle, businesses want to invest, and visitors want to stop and stay. The role of the City Council is to plan infrastructure improvements strategically, support a range of housing options, and maintain fair and predictable regulations.

The upcoming Highway 71 reconstruction will bring long-term improvements but may create significant disruptions for local businesses. What should the city do before, during, and after construction to maintain access, communicate effectively and help businesses remain visible and successful?

Before construction, the city should coordinate with MnDOT and the local businesses to determine access routes, signage needs and a communication plan. During construction, we should provide regular updates through social media, the city website, and email/ text alerts. After construction, the city can help promote community events and business activity to bring people back into the corridor and support those who were impacted during the project.

What is one action you support during your first year in office that could strengthen Sauk Centre's economy or business community?

One action I would support in my first year is moving forward with the findings of the Sauk Centre EDA hospitality study, which identified the potential for another hotel in our community. A new hotel would bring additional visitors to Sauk Centre to support existing businesses and create opportunities for new restaurants or services to establish themselves.

*All candidates were contacted at email addresses and phone numbers listed in public filing records. Questionnaires had word/time limits and are published EXACTLY as submitted. No info is displayed if a candidate didn’t respond. If you would like a copy of the PDF forms that were submitted by the candidate, please submit that request to saukcentrechamber@gmail.com. Thank you.

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