A ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION
OCTOBER 2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS
October 2024 Advantage Magazine
What’s Inside
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COMMUNITY NEWS • Flocal • New Survey Highlights Optimism for Minnesota Businesses
FEATURE Meet the Candidates for City, County, & State
22 24
CEO PROFILE Tim Deutsch
NEWSREEL New Roles and Celebrations
42 46
MEET THE MEMBER Hanny's CHAMBER NEWS • Events
RIBBON CUTTINGS Grand Openings, Anniversaries, New Members, and Other Celebrations
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NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chamber
• Nurturing Tomorrow's Leaders • Sponsorship Enrollment Opens • Educator Industry Experience • Chamber Welcomes New Staff & Incoming Board Members • Shop Local - Holiday Gift Guide • Chamber Supports RPS 2024 Ignite Student Learning Referendum
2 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — OCTOBER 2024
CHAMBER STAFF & BOARD
October 2024 Advantage Magazine
Chamber Staff
CHAMBER PRESIDENT Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122
WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR Claire Henneman | 507-424-5662 POLICY & COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Olivia Kloster | 507-424-5666 SENIOR DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Tim Shea | 507-424-5663
SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Michaela Freyler | 507-424-5699
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Cherie Thurlow | 507-288-1122
SENIOR DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN Sophia van Oss | 507-424-5661
EVENTS & PROGRAMS DIRECTOR Shannon Gowen | 507-424-5687
Chamber Board Officers
CHAIR OF THE BOARD Steve Dunn | Taco JED
AT LARGE Scott Eggert | Broadway Plaza
TREASURER Jessica Eidem | IBM Corporation
VICE CHAIR Gwen Stevens | People's Energy Cooperative
SECRETARY Jarett Jones | Merchants Bank
Chamber Board Members
SANTHI ARUNACHALAM Xylo Technologies Inc.
DOUG HOLTAN Mayo Clinic
JENNA OBERNOLTE Short Elliott Hendrickson
CHAD BEHNKEN CORE Real Estate Group
BEN KING Dunlap & Seeger
SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER 125 LIVE
DR. JEFFREY BOYD Rochester Community and Technical College
CHAD LAUNDERVILLE Hy-Vee
KRISTY SUTTON Olmsted Medical Center
TOM LEIMER Knutson Construction
KELSEY VASZILY Kraus-Anderson Construction
HEATHER DONOVAN Sterling State Bank
OMAR NUR Somali American Social Services Association
ULISES GONZALEZ Baser Freight
Rochester-area businesses are empowered to succeed in a diverse and collaborative climate. VISION
The Chamber promotes business success which supports a thriving community. MISSION
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Contact Sophia van Oss at svanoss@rochestermnchamber.com
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MEET THE CANDIDATES FOR CITY, COUNTY & STATE
This November's ballot will include Rochester City Council Members, Olmsted County Commissioners, and Minnesota State Representatives.
Hear from the local candidates on why they are running and where their priorities lie.
MEET THE CANDIDATES
Feature
Rochester City Council
Nick Miller
Tripp Welch
WARD 2
WARD 2
Why are you running for City Council and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I’m running for City Council because I love this community, am committed to
Why are you running for City Council and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I am running for city council because local government makes a big difference in
building a place where our children can thrive and believe that local government is strongest when it’s built on trust and shared purpose. With over 15 years of experience in finance, public accounting, and economic development, I’m equipped to make sound, financially responsible decisions. But more importantly, I’m committed to being present—listening to residents, business owners, and community groups to understand our community’s diverse needs and perspectives. As a young father, I am focused on making sure that we not only respect Rochester’s history, but also embrace positive changes as we plan for our city’s future. What sets me apart is my commitment to community engagement, financial expertise and understanding of the next generation of residents. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for City Council? My top priority is to ensure Rochester’s growth is met with thoughtful and dedicated leadership so that changes reflect our community’s shared values. In Minnesota’s fastest-growing city, the role of city council demands significant time and commitment. I bring diverse experiences and active community involvement, which equip me to collaborate effectively across our city. I’m committed to staying connected with Ward 2 residents, proactively responding to concerns, and valuing all viewpoints. Smart decisions come from listening to different voices and analyzing the data. My second priority is to address our community’s affordability challenges. We need more options in housing and transportation, and we must prioritize growth that improves our city’s long-term financial health. I support smart growth strategies that increase housing supply without compromising quality or triggering unnecessary sprawl. Prioritizing financially productive developments near existing infrastructure will expand our tax base and improve available transportation options without overburdening current taxpayers.
the daily lives of people. I believe in the power of this community and I want the future to be bright for everyone. All of our kids deserve to experience Rochester as a safe, welcoming place where they can build their future — just as my wife and I did when we moved to Ward Two 28 years ago. My 28 years of extensive leadership experience and community involvement in Rochester sets me apart. I've tackled issues like housing, childcare, arts, youth and sports through both executive board roles and hands-on volunteer work. My experience spans nonprofit groups, businesses, and local government, with a proven track record of developing partnerships to drive action. I am a values-driven leader who demonstrates authenticity and heart, experienced in bringing people together to build consensus and collaboration and drive action. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for City Council? Affordable Living is the most important issue I’m hearing from residents. In addition to inflation, affordable housing is a critical issue not only for our lower income residents, but also for young families and retirees who want to downsize. It is also a significant contributor to our rising homelessness. When so many residents are challenged with affordable living, we must be cautious about increasing property taxes right now. Instead, the city needs to practice fiscal stewardship, prioritizing expenses and major infrastructure projects. Public Safety is imperative for our community to continue to be one of the best places to live in America. I am committed to making sure our police and fire department, and ambulances, are fully staffed, trained and equipped. We also need to support our police by providing resources for partnering with co-responders and social services for crisis situations and non-emergency follow up.
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MEET THE CANDIDATES
Feature
Rochester City Council (CONT.)
Kelly Rae Kirkpatrick WARD 4
Andy Friederichs
WARD 4
Why are you running for City Council and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I have been working in Rochester for 17 years, and I have been in business for 30
Why are you running for City Council and how does your experience qualify you for the position? My decision to run for re- election in 2024 is fueled by my concern for the well-being
years. It is time to give back. Rochester has been good to me and my family and I would like to help ensure is stays a great community. We have built out over 200 affordable apartments within Rochester and worked with the city on all levels of those projects. We have worked closely with the Rochester Police Department to clean up severely over run and neglected properties. Learning how to work with all departments within the city is what makes me qualified for this position. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for City Council? Homelessness within the city-accessing the need and working together with all entities to fix the problem while having some accountability in place. There have been several issues in the downtown corridor that need to be looked at. Including public safety, defacing of property, cleanliness, and public nuisance issues. Our law enforcement community needs support to ensure they have the ability to do their job properly. Affordable Housing. What does this look like? Who builds it? Why isn't it being built? The time has come when it is near impossible to build a small standard starter home for less then $350,000. Unless a person was to do work on the house themselves. There are affordable living options within the city but it is not a 3 bed 2 bath house with a garage. Is it time to look at all of the options? Is it time to really make Rochester an all inclusive community? Tiny Homes, Micro Apartments, Room rentals in personal housing, park model mobile home parks, and other means are all options. Also allowing developers to continue to develop because it creates a shift out of lower cost housing right up the ladder. Houses open up for newcomers, young people, or someone transitioning out of an apartment at that point.
of Rochester residents. As the incumbent, my in-depth understanding of the City's governmental structure, including staff and administrative relationships, equips me to serve in an enhanced capacity. My extensive leadership roles on various community boards underscore my commitment to the education and welfare of our growing community. Serving as a City Council member is a natural progression of the work I've been dedicated to for years. It allows me to serve the residents of Ward 4 and greater Rochester with increased effectiveness. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for City Council? Improve our spending for projects and services that add value to the lives of our residents. City services and approved projects or policies should positively impact and improve the quality of life for folks and preserve our natural resources well into the future. With the proposed increase in City staffing, we can spend less on out-of-city consultants, increase resident participation in the decision process, save money, and increase trust with residents. Housing needs are critical, and housing costs should align with our population. Rents are too expensive for most in Rochester, so improving purchase options for larger multi-family rental buildings and lower-income residents is key. Collaborate with residents and developers to yield sustainable outcomes that incentivize housing for many over the few. This collaboration is necessary and should utilize models such as hybrid housing incorporating conservation design principles to create sustainable neighborhoods.
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MEET THE CANDIDATES
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Dan Doering
Mark Schleusner
WARD 6
WARD 6
Why are you running for City Council and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I decided to run for City Council to actively participate in shaping policies that will
Why are you running for City Council and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I am running for the Rochester City Council Ward 6 to provide experienced
benefit both current and future residents of Rochester, ensuring it becomes the best possible place for everyone to call home. My extensive community volunteer experiences, coupled with my professional role as the Pastor of People of Hope Lutheran Church, have equipped me with the skills necessary to be an effective leader on the Council. I pride myself on being an attentive listener, deeply committed to addressing and acting on the concerns of others. My ability to collaborate with individuals holding diverse viewpoints allows me to tackle problems effectively. I excel at processing large volumes of information and distilling it into clear, actionable insights, which aids in making informed decisions. Regularly balancing budgets and handling complex financial issues are integral parts of my professional life. Ultimately, as a servant leader, I prioritize the needs of those I represent, placing their interests above my own agenda. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for City Council? My foremost priority is tackling Rochester’s affordable housing crisis. The City Council and the City must be innovative in their approaches to providing housing that is both accessible and respectful. This involves supporting more infill housing opportunities and creating incentives for developers to build affordable homes. Equally important is addressing homelessness in our community. While public safety concerns are valid, the City must focus on compassionate care and support for those facing homelessness. We need to address the root causes, such as mental health and addiction, and work proactively to connect people with existing housing options. By preventing homelessness before it starts and offering support tailored to individual needs, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.
leadership and shape our community’s future. As a Rochester native, military veteran, and former school board member, I understand what our community needs and what effective leadership entails. I have a proven track record of listening to diverse perspectives and finding solutions through collaboration. leadership, and budget management skills. I know how transparency is essential, and I am committed to clear communication, especially regarding tax dollar usage. Living in Ward 6, I see firsthand how families want to see a city livable for everyone but also manage their finances judiciously. I am ready to bring my expertise to the city council, ensuring effective leadership and a voice for all Rochester residents. With over 15 years of leadership experience on various boards, I bring strategic visioning, collaborative What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for City Council? The first priority is addressing Rochester’s affordable housing challenge. With rapid population growth, there is a significant need for housing, especially affordable options. This includes housing for the homeless and those in low-paying professions. We must also consider those near financial insolvency. The second priority is fiscal responsibility and transparency. The potential tax levy in 2025 is concerning for Ward 6 and all of Rochester. While it’s crucial to maintain Rochester’s quality of life, we must avoid burdening residents with high tax rates. The city needs to improve financial transparency. When presenting the budget to the city council, it should be understandable to regular citizens. Clear communication about the needs and reasons for tax increases will likely lead to greater acceptance, even if reluctantly.
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Rochester City Council (CONT.)
Shaun Palmer
PRESIDENT
Why are you running for City Council President and how does your experience qualify you for the position? It has been a true honor to serve on the Rochester City Council since my election in 2018. Winning re-election in 2022 with 72.5% of the vote is a testament to the trust and support of our community. I am proud to have received endorsements from past presidents of the Rochester City Council, Mr. Hunziker and Mr. Staver, who have both served as council members and then as council president. Their support is a testament to my commitment and capabilities.
I have also held positions as chairperson of the Rochester Olmsted Council of Governments, on the Olmsted County Environmental Commission, and served two terms as President of the Camp Olson YMCA board. These experiences have equipped me to lead the Rochester City Council into a prosperous future.
I have had the experience of listening to the citizens of Rochester; I have consistently voted in the best interest of Rochester, not a particular interest group with a paid lobbyist.
What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for City Council President? My main priority is our citizens. I want the Rochester City Council to work together on policies that will meet the needs of all citizens. Bringing back order to the City Council meetings is essential, and I want to ensure that all voices are heard but that we move forward with the policies we determine are best for Rochester. The increased growth that will take place over the next eight years will require leadership with experience in construction and management. I have been in the construction industry for the last 43 years, earning a degree from Winona State University in Construction. I have also been a Union Carpenter in South Florida and a Certified Building official in Minnesota. I have served as a building inspector for Rochester for over 25 years.
These experiences will aid the City Council in making informed decisions about Rochester's future, and they are experiences that my opponent does not have.
As the City of Rochester continues to grow and develop, how do you envision Rochester ten years from now? How can the City Council support that vision? As James J. Hill said, "Great Cities do not happen by accident." I believe Rochester is a great city. One of the things that makes Rochester great is that we constantly strive to improve. Additionally, the different cultures that belong in Rochester are a blessing, and we learn from others how to make Rochester even better. The future will always bring challenges, especially with our city's expansion in the coming years. We have a history of meeting these challenges head-on with an open mind. I envision Rochester as a destination medical community and a place where our citizens want to live and raise their families. I envision a safe and productive city with affordable housing and a vibrant job market. I bring to the Rochester City Council the ability to embrace our past and work hard for the future, which should include everyone.
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Feature
Randy Schubring
PRESIDENT
Why are you running for City Council President and how does your experience qualify you for the position? With overwhelming growth and investment in Rochester, I was motivated to run for City Council President to use my leadership experience to ensure that we are smart, intentional and inclusive with our future growth. I would bring a new voice to the council with demonstrated leadership at the state, city and neighborhood levels.
At the state, I serve as Rochester’s representative, appointed by twice by Gov. Walz, on the statewide Metropolitan Airports Commission. MAC is a $600M agency – same size as the City of Rochester– considered by both sides of the political aisle at the Capital as the most effective and efficiently run state agency. In this capacity, I chair the Capital Construction Program, where I review and approved over $1 billion in construction projects including roadways, fire stations and over 2 million square feet of terminal space. At the city level, I currently serve as Chair of the Planning and Zoning Commission. In addition, I am the former liaison for Mayo Clinic to the City Council and neighborhoods where I fostered a culture of two-way communication between the City’s largest employer and our residents. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for City Council President? I will partner with civic leaders to bring more businesses and good-paying jobs beyond health care to Rochester by leveraging the huge investment by Mayo Clinic and others in our city. Rochester greatly benefits from serving as home to our world-renowned medical institution. However, it's imperative that we pro-actively seek to diversify our economy— especially with the smaller footprint of IBM. We must promote policies that bring a broader economic base of businesses to Rochester such as biotechnology, manufacturing, agriculture, higher education, and small businesses. Together, we can build a stronger commercial property tax base with livable wage jobs for Rochester residents and broaden our tax base. I will work to build truly affordable housing here in Rochester including rental, multi-family and first-time homeownership focused on seniors, workforce housing and our underserved residents. Having grown up in public housing, I believe that safe and affordable housing is a human right. The city must work with the County, Housing Coalition and builders to reduce barriers to construction and improve access to first time homeownership. We can do this with incentives for developers to construct more affordable housing units for our essential workforce, senior population and underserved communities. We must also work with the Building Trades and RCTC to increase our pool of plumbers, carpenters, electricians, and other trades workers. As the City of Rochester continues to grow and develop, how do you envision Rochester ten years from now? How can the City Council support that vision? As Rochester grows, we must prioritize development opportunities within our current growth plan on vacant parcels before expanding outward. By promoting so-called “in-fill” development, we will expand our tax base by building mixed- use walkable neighborhoods featuring traditional and affordable housing and integrated retail. This will also ensure that Rochester does not spread out with unchecked sprawl, which adds both costly taxpayer-supported sewer lines and infrastructure and longer commute times. In ten years, I envision such developments on the former Kmart and AMPI 60 acre site where new residents can live, shop and bike to downtown employment. This will also help re-vitalize our Rochester’s downtown environment.
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MEET THE CANDIDATES
Feature
Olmsted County Commissioner
Laurel Podulke-Smith
April Sutor
DISTRICT 1
DISTRICT 3
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I was elected to the Olmsted County Board in 2022 and chose to serve my community
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? My decades of experience in human and social services gives me a deep understanding
as County Commissioner because I believe in the power of public service to improve the everyday lives of people. I also believe in the responsibility of counties to transform lives. I am a passionate servant leader and bring strong collaborative skills and optimistic thinking to local gov- ernment. With 20 years of experience in education, health- care, community organizing, and neighborhood advocacy, I understand the importance of working together to get things done. Toward this goal I direct my efforts to com- munity building and fostering equity wherever possible. As a community member, I am an avid volunteer and serve on numerous non-profit boards, including Rochester Civic Theatre, Kutzky Park Neighborhood Association, Pamoja Women, and First Homes. Olmsted County residents can count on me to lead with total commitment in a true spirit of collaboration. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? 2023 was a significant year for Olmsted County. We secured funding for numerous large-scale construction projects, and continue to make progress on soil health ini- tiatives, nitrate remediation, homelessness and housing af- fordability, opioid crisis abatement, innovative solid waste and recycling practices, making a clean energy transition, and more. I look forward to advancing the county’s work in the coming years. Two of my top priorities in 2024 are affordable housing and public safety. As County Commis- sioner, I advocate for the expansion of affordable housing in southeast MN. This includes improving options for safe and healthy housing for BIPOC community members, working families, low-income residents, people with dis- abilities, and senior citizens. As chair of the Dodge-Olmst- ed Community Corrections Joint Powers Board, I support Olmsted County's numerous services and programs that offer meaningful opportunities for justice-involved indi- viduals to improve their lives and lessen the likelihood of returning to the criminal justice system in the future.
of the diverse challenges our community faces. My direct, hands-on experience is unique among board members bringing a perspective others do not possess. Over this time, I’ve worked in collaboration with business, industry, nonprofits, faith communities, government and individuals to successfully address the complex issues of our community, including job training, senior services, youth development, leadership training, and grant writing. I’m very active and involved in the community. In 2020 I received the Mayor’s Medal of Honor for my work with seniors. I will utilize my skills and extensive knowledge to continue to serve the people of Olmsted County and address the pressing issues facing our children and families, working adults and seniors. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? Affordable housing for first-time home buyers, renters, seniors. For our economy to grow and communities to thrive workers/families need housing. The federal standard, 30% of income for housing, takes collaborative efforts to provide. Our largest gap is smaller, less expensive housing. This would create options for people looking to down size thus putting larger homes on the market. If workers can’t find housing, employers won’t fill openings. When the state closed mental health hospitals placing the burden of care on counties our mental health crisis began in earnest. Counties were ill equipped to handle the issues that followed. Hospitals, jails, shelters, streets now house many of our seriously mentally ill. There are 87 counties in MN and 87 mental health systems. MN needs one coordinated system. A coalition of counties, hospitals, medical associations, law enforcement and others needs to be formed to approach the legislature to develop one mental health system for Minnesotans.
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MEET THE CANDIDATES
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Gregg Wright
Michelle Rossman
DISTRICT 3
DISTRICT 5
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I have always been involved with helping people. I
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? Serving on the Olmsted Coun- ty Board of Commissioners since January 2023, has been
was a successful educator for 48 years as a teacher and counselor. During my years in education, I was also a faculty leader. As a faculty leader, I visited the Capitol many times to visit with legislators. I have used these experiences to represent the people in my district, to procure bonding money for the county, and to improve the quality of life in Olmsted County. I am running for re- election because I want to build on the great foundation that I have helped create for Olmsted County. I have worked at the local and state level, collaborated with non-profit agencies and private businesses, and created a good working relationship with the city of Rochester. My past record demonstrates that I can keep Olmsted County stable, moving forward and highly respected. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? Housing. This is a critical need for seniors, low-income families, and working families. Businesses, industries, and economic development depend on adequate housing for a growing workforce. I will collaborate with our city, the housing authority, and non-profit partners to plan and implement mixed income housing projects and preserve naturally occurring low-income housing. Environment. Protecting our groundwater and de- carbonizing the counties operations. Taking care of our environment now is critical for future generations.
an incredible learning experience. I’ve gained an under- standing of the inner-workings of county government and built relationships with elected officials, city and county staff as well as private sector and non-profit represen- tatives. As collaborative efforts with non-profit orga- nizations, coalitions, city and township representatives have been developed and implemented, I’ve experienced frustration, disappointment, pride and achievement as diverse goals and objectives are evaluated and discussed in addressing the disparate and critical needs of residents. In bringing my life experiences and knowledge as a small business owner, scientist, mother and agricultural profes- sional to the board room, I have made an impact in guiding crucial county programs and services. I remain committed to a financially sound and thriving Olmsted County where resources are allocated purposefully to meet current needs with strategic planning for future essential programs. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? My top priority is to continue to listen to citizens as they articulate their needs and tell me how county programs and services are affecting their daily lives. That feedback is so important and it’s my job to bring that information into all discussions that I participate in as we manage programs and services and make budget decisions. I also prioritize my representation of Olmsted County in dis- cussions at the regional and state level. The majority of programs and services managed by Olmsted County are state mandated, therefore it’s critical to have relationships with our state legislators. Collaboration occurs between counties in addressing common issues and advocating for state program changes and funding so relationships with commissioner peers is essential. Transparent communica- tion, alignment to the county’s strategic plan, commitment to efficient use of resources and continuous improvement remain my foundation as I represent the citizens of Olmst- ed County District 5.
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Olmsted County Commissioner (CONT.)
Tawonda Burks
Bob Hopkins
DISTRICT 6
DISTRICT 6
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I am running for County Commissioner because our
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? As a Navy veteran and former public servant, I believe the
community needs leadership that is both passionate and effective in addressing the critical challenges we face. From housing affordability and criminal justice reform to healthcare access, economic development, and human services, I am committed to bringing innovative solutions that create real change. Now is the time for collaborative efforts that benefit every resident in our county. I am ready to lead with purpose and deliver lasting, impactful results. My extensive board experience serving organizations in STEM, women, youth, business, and healthcare has deepened my understanding of our community's needs. Alongside my role at Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc. (RAEDI), my doctoral education and research, business education, and leadership as the owner of multiple businesses, equips me to tackle our county’s most pressing issues with determination. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? As a candidate for County Commissioner, my top two priorities are enhancing human services and driving economic development. Our community is strong, but there’s always room to improve access to essential services like healthcare, mental health support, and social services. I am committed to making these services even more accessible and effective, ensuring they reach those who need them most. Economic development is also crucial for our county's continued growth. I am dedicated to supporting local businesses, driving entrepreneurship, and creating jobs that contribute to the county’s ongoing success and provide stability for our residents. By building on the progress we’ve made, I believe we can create even more opportunities for everyone in our community. These priorities reflect my commitment to contributing to a county that is both compassionate and thriving. I am ready to work harder to ensure our community continues to grow and that everyone has the support and opportunities they need to succeed.
best way to give back to the community is by applying my experience and dedication to help keep Olmsted County be the welcoming and prosperous community that we all expect and deserve. As a small business owner, I experience every day the joys and challenges of managing a business, making payroll, hiring and retaining employees, and achieving success in our community. I believe these skills will be critical in helping Olmsted County tackle the challenges of growth and change that our community is experiencing. I look forward to putting these skills to work from Day One as an Olmsted County Commissioner. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? My top three priorities are Responsible Growth, Affordable Housing, and Public Safety. Responsible Growth – I will work to ensure that investments are made responsibly and in ways that enhance public trust and financial accountability. Affordable Housing – My goal is to address the housing shortage in the greater Rochester area so that people can afford to live and work in Olmsted County. Public Safety – I plan to build on the considerable efforts of the Olmsted County Sheriff’s office to enable a responsive and effective law enforcement presence in our community.
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Mark Thein
DISTRICT 7
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I'm running because I feel I offer a unique perspective
to the board in that I am a small family business owner who understands the challenges of running a successful business in challenging times and has a great deal of experience with housing issues. As a certified water well contractor, I also offer expertise on environmental issues - especially those surrounding protecting our groundwater for future generations. In my 8 years of being on the County Board, we have made huge strides on environmental issues and I believe we've made progress in making sure our services are delivered as efficiently as possible. Prior to being elected to the County Board in 2016, I served 18 years as an Oronoco Township Supervisor/Chairperson. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? 1. To see continued growth in the soil health program we established several years ago and promote seeing it emulated region-wide to protect our groundwater from Nitrates and reduce soil erosion that is polluting our streams and rivers. With the EPA recently naming these issues as being an "imminent and substantial endangerment to public health" in this region, there is a great opportunity to have the State of Minnesota fund this program in the future to effectively address these concerns. 2. To continue to work to provide affordable home ownership opportunities to our younger residents and those who wish to age-in-place in smaller homes that have less maintenance requirements. Home ownership is a key to generational wealth and stability and develops community connection.
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State Representative
Steve Jacob
DISTRICT 20B
Why are you running for State Representative and how does your experience qualify you for the position? The reason that I became involved in government stems from an incident where government overreach landed me in a court case where I learned very quickly about government dysfunctions. Fortunately, the judge saw things in my favor, but it was still an expensive lesson for my family. I didn't want anyone else to go through what I went through, so I ran for and won a County Commissioner position. I quickly became known as a government
watchdog and have subsequently run four campaigns based on stopping the expansion of government. I consider my path to the Minnesota House of Representatives to be a path that God has put me on, and has prepared me well for. The district that I represent is largely a rural and agricultural district. Being a 4th generation family farmer and a ten-year county commissioner who has sat on as many water resource boards as I could over the last dozen years has prepared me well to represent this district. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for State Representative? My top priorities include defending the taxpayers from an ever-expanding government while simultaneously working to reign in government regulations. It is heartbreaking to hear long-time business people from my area talk about needing to leave Minnesota in order to escape high taxes and overbearing regulations. Going into our last biennium the state of Minnesota had an 18-billion-dollar overcollection of taxes. Not only did democrats fail to refund the overcollection, but they raised taxes by an additional 10 billion dollars on top of that. This is breaking the backs of hard-working Minnesotans, and these people need someone in the legislature fighting for them, and against further expansions of government. How can the state government improve to best serve both the business community and its citizens? Minnesota needs to become more business friendly. My vision for Minnesota includes seeing a sign as you enter our state that reads "Welcome to Minnesota, Open for Business". Being business friendly helps our citizens and taxpayers as much as it helps our businesses. We need to loosen overbearing regulations in order for businesses to feel welcome in our state. As a farmer, I see firsthand how overregulation is driving agriculture out of our state. It is very disheartening to watch family farms try to expand here in Minnesota as they run into obstacle after obstacle standing in the way of their dreams to expand the family farm so they can continue to protect our environment and feed the world, all while they are driving our local economy. In my district farming is a good example of regulatory overreach, but the same issues face nearly every business in our state. We can absolutely protect our environment without driving business out of Minnesota.
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Michael Hutchinson
DISTRICT 20B
Why are you running for State Representative and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I love our country and want to help lead our great State to make it even better and stronger, for everyone. As a veteran, I have seen how efficient and effective we can be when everyone shares a mission and works toward a common goal, regardless of their diverse origins. I believe that our State can and should be doing more for its rural residents and the issues unique to living away from large cities, while still addressing statewide issues like inflation
from corporate greed, affordable housing, and critical educational funding. Our country was founded on the simple principle of "By the people and for the people" which means it is our government designed to serve the needs of our communities, not to bow to the whims of the rich. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for State Representative? While my number one priority is listening to the people of my district and taking their concerns to the State House, in my first term I hope to push for a number of changes that will help everyday people. My top priorities will be rural funding, both for infrastructure and services including fighting to make EMTs and Ambulances funded like other essential services in all communities. In parts of my district it can take 30+ minutes for an ambulance to arrive, this is not acceptable if people are going to safely live in Minnesota. My other priority will be affordable home ownership. While I believe we also need price protections for renters, my goal is to make sure more families and individuals can own their own home in communities across our state, not just be a forever renter to the corporations that bought up all our housing. How can the state government improve to best serve both the business community and its citizens? A Representative's duty is to main street, not wall street. I believe the point of our Government is to serve the needs of its citizens and their businesses, so everything the State does should be for all our benefit. I know that a strong community economy is not created by large corporations, but by local and family run businesses. Our laws must protect new ideas and start-up companies from monopolies, collusion and other anti-competitive practices which will also help ensure consumers are protected from corporate greed. When I am elected, I will make sure our small and/or new business support programs and grants are properly funded and updated to work in accordance with the modern business world so that local entrepreneurs can create jobs that strengthen our communities.
OCTOBER 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 15
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State Representative (CONT.)
Heather Holmes
DISTRICT 24A
Why are you running for State Representative and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I am running for State Representative because I believe Minnesota should be a place where everyone is free and empowered to live their life as they choose. I want to ensure that our rural communities are being advocated for up in St. Paul. I have worked in various fields of scientific research for over two decades. These experiences have taught me how to absorb large amounts of new information, critically analyze data, and apply that knowledge to
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creatively solve problems. Serving on the school board has also helped me understand how what happens at the state level can directly impact our local communities. These things have also taught me the importance of humility and willingness to learn from others who have more knowledge than you. All of these experiences will serve me well if I am allowed to serve my district in St. Paul. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for State Representative? Being on the school board has opened my eyes to the issues in funding facing our public schools, especially in greater Minnesota. These challenges make it difficult not only for our schools to continue to serve their students, but they also cost our communities in increased taxes to make up for the lack of funds. The historic investments in education made in 2023 were great, but unfortunately one funding cycle cannot make up for many years of underfunding. I also would like to focus on access to quality/affordable healthcare. This includes EMS services in our rural communities. Much of greater Minnesota is served by volunteer ambulance services for emergency care. These services are struggling to remain operational. If they disappear, it would be incredibly harmful for the communities they serve. How can the state government improve to best serve both the business community and its citizens? I think it is important for the state government to find ways to work with the business community that allow businesses to thrive but also ensure citizens have access to what they need. The government should invest in infrastructure and things that ensure people can provide for their families. When people have what they need, they are able to better support local businesses. At the same time, the government should ensure they are also working to make Minnesota a place where businesses can thrive and be a part of their communities. I believe the two things do not have to be mutually exclusive.
16 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — OCTOBER 2024
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Dan Sepeda
DISTRICT 24B
Why are you running for State Representative and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I chose to run for this position because I want better for my district. The direction this state has taken is dangerous and not sustainable. Taxes and fees for services have increased dramatically. Our schools have an agenda-driven curriculum that has pushed out reading, writing, and arithmetic, and resulted in our children getting lower test scores. Our state government, through its numerous agencies and boards are over-regulating citizens and
businesses alike. Small businesses are especially feeling the crunch in the ever-rising fees they are required to pay. Minnesota can and should do better. I have worked over 25 years for a Department of Corrections licensed halfway house for men coming out of prisons, jails, and treatment centers. Currently my wife and I are small business owners providing housing for men with various disabilities. Working with low budgets, I learned how to operate well and spend wisely within the budget constraints. I worked with judges, lawyers, county attorneys, police and other first responders, probation officers, social workers, housing specialists, clients and their family and friends. My life and my work have been devoted to helping people navigate the difficult issues in their lives, while also instilling hope. I believe we can turn things around and I want the people in 24B to have their voice back.
What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for State Representative? My two top priorities are as follows; taxes and smaller government.
First, there is no reason for us to be paying the amount of taxes that we do. We need to reduce the size and scope of our state government, we need to cut spending across the board, and we need our elected officials to set budgets that are more realistic, and don’t result in higher taxes. We need to end all omnibus bills because hidden within these bills are expenditures that often wouldn’t pass on their own. After spending a $19 Billion surplus, our taxes were raised another $9 billion. Our income is taxed; the state places fees and taxes on goods and services we buy with money already taxed; we pay rising property taxes on property that was taxed when we purchased it; We can’t keep taxing to keep up with spending. Second, we need smaller government. The Minnesota state government is the third largest employer in the state with over 50,000 employees in more than 100 state agencies, boards, commissions, colleges, and universities. They do not produce a single product. All of this is paid for by Minnesota tax payers. They keep adding more programs and more employees and raising our taxes to pay for it. This is just not sustainable. How can the state government improve to best serve both the business community and its citizens? In a word; de-regulation. More regulations are associated with higher consumer prices, fewer small business start-ups, and fewer new jobs. This causes our economy to slump and ultimately fail. This hurts individuals, as well as businesses. John Reynolds, the NFIB, Minnesota State Director, said that the 2023 Minnesota Legislature passed the most expensive and burdensome regulations in the state's history for small businesses. He said that these regulations include new mandates and higher taxes for small businesses that are still struggling after the pandemic, inflation, and worker shortages. If we can cut back on regulations, the people in Minnesota can lead better, more productive lives, while keeping more money in their pockets. This will encourage more entrepreneurs to open more businesses in Minnesota, thereby moving us towards a more healthy, robust economy.
OCTOBER 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 17
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State Representative (CONT.)
Kim Hicks
DISTRICT 25A
Why are you running for State Representative and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I am running because I want a state that works for everyone. I have worn a lot of hats in my life including a parent, foster parent, adoptive parent, teacher, breast cancer survivor, policy lead and disability advocate. It is clear that many Minnesotans and their families are being left behind. I believe my lived experience and education allow me to bring an important lens to the legislature.
Families and workers need support. This year we started making investments and worked together to find real solutions for Minnesota families and small businesses but the work is not done.
The solutions are varied but they start with putting people before politics. We deserve a state government that is effective and improves people’s lives. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for State Representative? My top priorities are to continue to support our communities and families while addressing the workforce shortage. We have invested in families through universal free meals, child tax credits, tax cuts, and investments for childcare and education. We need to continue to work hard to address the workforce shortage, especially in healthcare and childcare continues to be a major issue for employers and our communities. Rochester, like much of Minnesota, is struggling to find workers which is affecting local businesses and the economy. How can the state government improve to best serve both the business community and its citizens? Government is designed to support people. That support includes things like ensuring that the government invest in the things that make businesses thrive. This includes things like high-quality education, affordable childcare, affordable housing, and a community where people want to live. These investments serve both the community members and businesses. These relationships are symbiotic, and we must work together to ensure that we’re supporting our businesses and our broader community so we can all live our best lives in Minnesota.
18 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — OCTOBER 2024
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