Wadena 2026 Election Guide

Contributed

Age on Election Day: 46

Employment: Freshwater Education District - Licensed Social Worker

Please share any prior experience and education that you believe qualifies you for office.

I have always been active in my community/region through work and volunteer experience. My professional training in social work has allowed me to serve individuals, families and impact systems for over 20 years. I continue to serve on our local Wadena County Public Health Advisory Council as well as WDC Community Education Committee. I feel that this community has provided for me throughout the years and am committed to giving back through public service. My volunteerism has encompassed some youth-based programs, support groups, previous Princess Warrior Committee member, church activities and council roles including secretary, and outreach roles.

Why are you running?

I was born and raised in this community and have spent most of my adult life living in this community. I have been able to see our community grow and change to meet the needs of its residents. I am committed to supporting our community through growth, change and ensure it remains and great place to live, work and play.

Why should voters elect you?

I feel that my experience and community involvement make me a great candidate for this elected position. I believe the best decisions are made by listening to others, working together and focusing on what will benefit our community for years to come. I would be honored to earn your support and your vote.

Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.

This role is one of five elected officials who are responsible to govern the policies and issues related to the city of Wadena. The commitment to reviewing and preparing for the monthly City Council meetings, as well as serving on appointed advisory boards will be the primary duties. One must not overlook being available for residents who wish to speak about questions, concerns or provide any sort of input that may shape the way decisions are made regarding policies or other issues that may arise.

Name a public leader you admire and explain why.

I am choosing to focus on several qualities I have experienced from great leaders; both public and throughout my education/work experiences. A true leader is able to guide and inspire others. They are willing to listen, show empathy and step in and serve, focusing on the mission or goal at hand. Many leaders who have inspired me have also shown a high level of integrity. My own personal goal has always been to lead by example.

What are the three biggest issues your city is facing?

I am very proud of our Wadena community and feel that we continue to grow and change to support our community needs. The three factors that come to mind: 1. attracting young families to our community. 2. continuing to improve and upgrade our aging infrastructure 3. continued economic development.

Which of those three issues is most important to you, and how would you address it if elected?

I think that two of these issues are very closely related to one another. Continued efforts to make Wadena a business-friendly community will offer new employment opportunities to attract young families. New families and continued growth would in-turn lead to more consumers buying and utilizing the services in our great community.

What steps, if any, would you take to support or oppose data centers?

At this time, I would need to gather all the facts and explore the impacts vs. benefits. This would include gathering input from my constituents. I do understand that in our modern economy, there are some potential changes, such as data centers that may become a reality in rural areas.

Many Northern Minnesota cities are experiencing tightening budgets. Where would you propose making cuts, if needed?

I would need to have an opportunity to review the budget and ask questions. I believe that our current city council has done a great job with our city, and I hope to be able to join those efforts. Finances are an important aspect of a healthy community, and I would want to ensure I have the facts and again offer input from my constituents.

Incumbent

KAXE did not receive a response from this candidate.

Contributed

Age on Election Day: 46

Employment: DSP @ Focused Living LLC

Please share any prior experience and education that you believe qualifies you for office.

Princeton Minnesota City council

Why are you running?

I'm running for everyone in Wadena and besides the City of Wadena is only ran by men, women should be encouraged to run.

Why should voters elect you?

I'm running because I want to prevent ridiculous spending that would hurt the citizens of Wadena.

Please describe the roles and responsibilities of the office you are running for.

To listen to the citizens of Wadena and try to bring in businesses for more jobs and prevent spending that would hurt citizens pockets

Name a public leader you admire and explain why.

I don't have one

What are the three biggest issues your city is facing?

Jobs, people with money thinking they can do what they want in town, lack of affordable housing

Which of those three issues is most important to you, and how would you address it if elected?

Affordable housing, we don't have enough housing that low income families can afford, landlords are trying to get rich of low income families.

What steps, if any, would you take to support or oppose data centers?

Oppose, Wadena is a farming community, we are not part of the suburbs of Minneapolis. It might bring jobs but not the right kind that our community is looking for.

Many Northern Minnesota cities are experiencing tightening budgets. Where would you propose making cuts, if needed?

Wage freeze until get spending under control, no overtime unless necessary due to weather circumstances such as blizzard or storm cleanup.