1. Keep a low tax rate and balanced budget. Property taxes have increased as the values of homes and businesses have gone up. I’d strive to find ways to lessen that burden without impacting the needed services we provide.
2. Researched land management plans: Wright County is the fastest-growing county in Minnesota, with an increased population of 13.13% since 2020. We need to maintain a good balance of industrial, residential, agricultural, and recreational areas.
3. Public Safety, with full support for our law enforcement and emergency medical services, along with well-maintained roads for safe travel.
Wright County provides an early voting option at the Government Center, along with mail-in ballots for people who are unable to vote in person, i.e, those in care facilities. Addresses are verified. Election officials test voting equipment before elections to ensure they are working correctly. Any issues are resolved. I witnessed the testing process four years ago and was impressed and reassured.
Minnesota does not have enough facilities/beds for people in crisis, or those needing long-term mental health care. Sadly, people in those situations often experience homelessness, may self-medicate with illegal drugs, engage in criminal activities, or become victims of crimes like robbery or trafficking. As a former Wright County Commissioner, I sat on several committees that sought solutions through awareness, education, and treatment options, and advocated for more care facilities.
That often poses a challenge given changes in laws and sometimes costly mandates from the state. Plus, unexpected things—like public transit, or a land use issue, or a drainage problem—pop up on a fairly regular basis. I would take a common-sense approach and look for the most cost-effective solutions without negatively impacting essential services.
We are a country settled largely by immigrants. Most people come to the United States via legal channels, and I know many. For those who have entered our country illegally, and whose status is identified, it's the responsibility of law enforcement agencies, not a county board, to take appropriate action. I served as a corrections officer in the 1990s, and when someone was arrested for a crime, and brought into jail, if we discovered he was an illegal, ICE was informed, and they picked him up.
Individuals, families, groups, and municipalities have issues they need help with from time to time. As a commissioner, I met with city and township officials and other entities on a regular basis. I am approachable and respond to every email, text message, and phone call. I research issues, consult with people knowledgeable in particular areas, and work to find the best resolutions possible.
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My first priority is supporting law enforcement and first responders. I will use my deep understanding of county operations to make sure they have the tools and funding to keep us safe and maintain the quality of life and safety our families deserve. My second priority will be addressing infrastructure in both growing and rural areas. We need smart common sense balanced development that preserves Wright Counties quality of life. I will make sure our tax dollars are spent wisely while maintaining a balance between residents, local business, and local government. My third priority will be transparency. I will be your voice in local government. If you have questions, concerns, or opinions on a issue contact me. I will practice full disclosure.
Wright County already requires a ID or verified street address of a registered voter. I have witnessed the voting at several locations throughout the county. The process seems to work very well in person. I have participated in mail in voting in the past. In order to get a ballot I was identified and verified on the voter registration. I will support the process the state and federal legislature requires. As Americans voting is our right and privilege.
With over 33 years of service as a Wright County Deputy Sheriff I saw the mental health issues first hand on a daily basis. The difficulty, requirements, and frequency of mental health issues placed on law enforcement have all increased exponentially The deputies need to continue their extensive training as front line responders. Social services needs the resources and options to step in and achieve positive outcomes rather than tragic ones.
I will use my integrity, practical, and common sense approach to local government. I have built strong relationships across the county, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges of fiscal responsibility facing the departments in Wright County. I am a long time resident of Wright County and have a willingness to listen to the constituents of my district to solve the current and future issues involving financial expenditures while eliminating waste.
The federal government is responsible for immigration enforcement. Local law enforcement are not obligated to assist in active enforcement. The are obligated to assist if requested for other issues. I do not see a issue with notifying immigration if we are releasing someone with a immigration hold. This keeps the individual out of our communities and prevents the necessity of a future federal operation within the county possibly creating other issues. Ultimately a Sheriff issue.
I will be going door to door throughout the district. I regularly attend functions and events throughout the county. Constituents can mail, call, or email me at any time at the office and i WILL get back to them. I will be transparent with the issues to insure your voice is heard at the county level. If the issue is beyond the county level I will contact the appropriate legislator at the state level. Your opinions and voice matter.
