Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I bring the experience, commitment, and relationships needed to serve Columbus. I have served as Mayor for two years, on the City Council for two years, and on the Columbus Economic Development Authority for four years, including two as president. I have also chaired the Planning Commission and served on the Fire and Park Boards.

My 30 years as a police officer, 24 years as a volunteer MN DNR Firearms Instructor, and service with American Legion Post 225 reflect a lifelong commitment to public service. I’ve also volunteered with Columbus Fall Fest and organized a Friends of the Park cleanup.

I have built strong relationships with neighboring cities, Anoka County, and State officials to advance projects and pursue funding opportunities.
 

If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why?

1. To lessen taxpayer burden, I will keep city taxes as low as possible through responsible budgeting, pursuing grants and County/State funding and cost-sharing.

2. Residents value Columbus’ rural character, I will protect this through thoughtful zoning and development that preserves our quality of life while supporting a strong local tax base.

3. I will improve communication with residents so they are better informed and have a voice in city projects and decisions.

If elected, what strategies will you use to ensure transparency, accountability and ethical conduct in city government under your leadership?
Strategies are important but accountability is the key. I lead by example by conducting city business openly, welcoming public questions and differing viewpoints and making information accessible to residents. I will continue to work to improve communication about major decisions, spending and projects. I hold myself and city leadership accountable for responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Ethical, honest and transparent government is and will continue be a priority under my leadership.


How will you engage with residents to solicit feedback, involve them in decision-making processes, and ensure their voices are heard?
Communication is one of the most frequent complaints I hear as Mayor. I believe residents deserve to be informed, heard, and involved. I created a “Meet the Mayor” opportunity at City Hall during the Lions Pancake Breakfast and will continue it. I’ll explore a Citizens Advisory Committee to provide representative community feedback and improve how we use social media, email and the city website to share information and gather residents’ input before important decisions are made.

How will you approach public safety and community policing to ensure the well-being of all residents? 
As a former Forest Lake Police Officer, I bring 30 years of public safety experience and a strong understanding of community policing. Columbus relies on the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office for its policing, and I meet with the Lieutenant at least quarterly to review statistics and discuss ways to improve service. I will continue strong oversight and make quarterly public safety reports easily accessible to residents.