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OLMSTED COUNTY COMMISSIONER (CONTINUED)
Q: Why are you running for county commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position?
A: I am running for County Commissioner because I believe in the power of civil service to improve the everyday lives of people. As a dedicated community leader I bring strong collaborative skills, optimistic thinking, and creative problem solving to local government. With 20 years of experience in education, healthcare, and small business, I understand the importance of working together to get things done. It is vitally im- portant that our elected officials have meaningful lived experience in the communities they seek to represent. I am a nearly lifelong resident of Kutzky Park and I talk with voters every day. Over the past several years in preparation for public office I study the issues closely, I meet regular - ly with local leaders, I attend community events, I pay close attention to what’s happening in District 1 neighborhoods, and I serve on numerous non-profit boards, commissions, and local councils. This is my way of beginning the work of advocacy and community empowerment I aim to continue once elected to the county board. Q: What are your top two priorities or issues as a candidate for county commissioner? A: 1. Affordable Housing: Olmsted County is experiencing a critical housing shortage. As a Rochester Area Foundation First Homes board member I understand the urgent need for safe and affordable housing, par- ticularly in low income, workforce, and senior housing options. The greatest barrier these populations face is finding safe and affordable housing that is not a cost burden (more than 30% of gross income). The solution to Olmsted County’s housing crisis requires long-range efforts on the part of state, city, and county leader- ship to work with builders, business leaders, non-profits, and the greater community to prioritize affordable housing for all Olmsted County residents. 2. Public Safety: Law enforcement, emergency preparedness, and public safety are critical services Olmsted County provides to the community. When elected County Com- missioner I will use my experience as a Safety Advocate and emergency preparedness trainer to support public safety initiatives, including victim services, community corrections, and crime prevention. I also sup- port Olmsted County’s efforts to reduce recidivism, such as pretrial services, outreach specialists, employ- ment assistance, chemical dependency treatment, drug court, and mental health services. LAUREL PODULKE-SMITH DISTRICT 1
| Advantage Magazine 6
October 2022
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