MEET THE CANDIDATES
Feature
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.
OCTOBER 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 11
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online