Get to know the 2022 candidates for Olmsted County Board
As a result of redistricting, six of the seven Olmsted County Board seats are on the ballot this cycle — and due to retirements, four are open seats. To help readers learn more about who is running, we asked the candidates to finish five statements about how they would serve the county if elected.
To find out which district you live in, visit the county’s website.
County Board District 1
Laurel Podulke-Smith
Healthcare educator, small business owner
Loring Stead
Retired physician
I am running for office this cycle because …
Podulke-Smith: I believe in the power of public 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, volunteerism, and small business, I understand the importance of working together to get things done.
Stead: Of a 35-year commitment to health and human services, affordable housing, public safety and parks. My family has been from the area for generations and I’m looking forward to giving back to a community that has served our family when we needed help. The county provided services for their needs. For that we are eternally grateful and now it is time to lead with service above self and give back to our community.
What I hear from constituents in my district is …
Podulke-Smith: Constituents in District 1 voice numerous concerns. Parents want to know their kids are safe. Seniors want reassurance they’ll be able to age in place, at home, with access to healthcare and a sense of community. Working families want to feel secure in their homes. Young people and students want professional opportunity when they graduate. Parents want affordable, reliable childcare.
Stead: Is affordable housing and public safety are two major concerns. In addition, it is our responsibility to be fiscally responsible to the county and provide value and service to the taxpayers. As sister Generose of St Marys said “no money, no mission.”
One issue facing the county that deserves more attention is …
Podulke-Smith: Rethinking food waste at the Olmsted County Waste to Energy Facility. 20 percent of the waste stream is food waste and winds up combusted. Food waste when combusted creates methane, a greenhouse gas. I’m eager to explore ways food waste can be separated from the waste stream, turned into bio- gas, and integrated into Olmsted County’s overall waste and recycling practices as part of a natural gas pipeline.
Stead: Public safety. Public safety is of utmost concern. Continuing close cooperation between the county sheriff’s department and city police department will be a priority. Appropriate funding must be provided to continue to serve our communities expanding safety needs.
When approving an annual budget, I would ensure …
Podulke-Smith: Setting a levy amount that allows Olmsted County to run smoothly. Olmsted County is first and foremost a service organization and must be able to meet all state and federally mandated services. Mandates are often unfunded or partially funded. This means Olmsted County must be proactive about finding alternative funding sources, to reduce the burden on taxpayers.
Stead: I have had extensive experience in this area. I was on the Board of Trustees and Governors at Olmsted Medical Group. We managed a budget similar to that of Olmsted County. I would carefully listen to the constituents of my district, prioritize the needs, and execute on a well thought out value based decisions. Once again, “no money, no mission.” Fiscal responsibility is of utmost importance, always.
The most important thing I can do as commissioner is …
Podulke-Smith: Be a responsible steward of Olmsted County resources.
Stead: As a physician I spent 35 years listening to over 225,000 patients. During this time I learned to be a very good listener. I had to listen and come up with an appropriate plan and deliver on each of their individual needs. The county is very similar to this position, as we will have to listen, learn, and execute for best desired results. A vote for me will be a vote for experience.
County Board District 2
Gabe Perkins
Training and organizational development specialist for MnDOT
Dave Senjem
Retired environmental affairs officer, outgoing state legislator
I am running for office this cycle because …
Perkins: I am running to represent my neighbors by bringing fresh ideas, experiences and leadership to the Olmsted County Board. I see great opportunities ahead in Olmsted County, with the continued impact of Destination Medical Center and I see challenges in infrastructure and affordable housing investments. My leadership experiences working in transportation and public health have given me the insight to become an effective Olmsted County Commissioner.
Senjem: I have a deep sense of obligation to public service and the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners is on the front lines of providing services to individuals with needs. That mission, that purpose, is extremely important to me. I see the role of government as one of doing for people that which they cannot otherwise do for themselves. Many people in Olmsted County need the services of county government. I want to help them.
What I hear from constituents in my district is …
Perkins: The need for more affordable housing and investments in overall infrastructure. If we want to grow our workforce, we need affordable housing. In addition, people want safe roads. It is unacceptable our state legislators and Governor failed to pass a bonding bill. As a result, safety improvements like an interchange at Olmsted County 44 and U.S. Hwy 14 will be delayed for years with increased costs.
Senjem: That they want a government that works for them. That they want people who they vote for to be people who will work together and get things done. Clearly, they are concerned about inflation, safety on the streets, gun violence, reproductive rights, and taxes, but first and foremost they want a government that respects them and works for them.
One issue facing the county that deserves more attention is …
Perkins: The need for mental health resources. We have social workers in the schools working with kids during the school year, but when summer arrives and kids lose that access. There needs to be continuity of care, we need more mental health workers for all generations and we need to realize if we don’t treat mental health, we will see an impact on law enforcement resources.
Senjem: Climate change and environmental sustainability, deserve more attention. Olmsted County is on board, but I believe more must be done. We have one Earth and generations who occupy Olmsted County long after we are gone will need an Earth that sustains them be it with clean air, clean water, or healthy soils. This is a world-wide concern, and our county is but a tiny part. Nevertheless, I believe we must be a leader.
When approving an annual budget, I would ensure …
Perkins: That our budget reflects our priorities. There are state mandated services we need to provide. Although the state reimbursements of those services do not cover all the costs, we need to make sure those priorities are met first. We have over 40,000 county residents receiving some sort of government assistance. We need to take care of those in need. Just like our family budgets, the county needs to balance the needs vs. their wants.
Senjem: That the budget brings value to the taxpayers of the county and at the same time respects the struggles of taxpayers to meet their own budgetary needs during this time of rising inflation. This is not an easy line to walk because inflation itself will affect the cost of county government as well and will result in a greater number of citizens needing county assistance. I will ensure a thoughtful and fair budget.
The most important thing I can do as commissioner is …
Perkins: Listen! I am approachable and listen to people’s concerns. There’s an old saying, “minds are like parachutes, they only function when open.” I want to listen to the needs and keep an open mind when making decisions.
Senjem: To never forget why I am there and to always remember who I exist to serve. To never stop listening to the people who elected me to serve them. To never stop understanding the enormity of my responsibilities to the citizens I was elected to serve. I believe to the core that elected service is about serving others and that is the most important thing I can and should do as a commissioner.
County board District 3
Gregg Wright
District 3 rep since 2017, retired educator
Karl Johnson
Small Business owner
I am running for office this cycle because …
Wright: I would like to continue to serve the people in District 3 and assure that Olmsted County will continue to earn the respect of the people. To inform people of what I do for the county of the actions that the county has taken, I provide information on my website, www.olmstedcounty.us.
Johnson: I have a strong desire to serve the community. I feel that giving people the opportunity to have choices when they are voting is important. It is a priority to me that all constituents in the district feel they have representation and a voice when there are topics that impact their daily lives.
What I hear from constituents in my district is …
Wright: People tell me that Olmsted County is a good place to live, the county is run well, and they appreciate that the county board gets its work done calmly and without drama.
Johnson: The desire to feel connected to those who are representing them. Their voice is important and the constituents have great ideas and solutions, it is important that they feel connected to the process of local government.
One issue facing the county that deserves more attention is …
Wright: Housing for low-income seniors and disabled will get more attention by the county. As a commissioner I will also press our state legislators that they can use part of the State’s surplus to fund more housing.
Johnson: Funding allocation. Making sure we are being financially responsible. Doing our due diligence to make sure we are utilizing all of our resources to the best potential.
When approving an annual budget, I would ensure …
Wright: I want to make sure that people can access county services easily, that someone answers the phone and returns calls when a person has a question, that services are provided efficiently and at the lowest cost possible.
Johnson: That community safety is a priority, along with ensuring that mandates are supported and funded.
The most important thing I can do as commissioner is …
Wright: I always keep in mind that I work for the people of District 3. The work that I do addresses current issues but also provides a pathway for a better future. It is important that I carry out my duties as commissioner to continue the respect that people have for the county government.
Johnson: To keep citizen’s thoughts in the forefront while working with our county managers and departments to develop best practices to maximize our resources.
County Board District 4
Brian Mueller
Self-employed heavy equipment mechanic, former Rochester Township supervisor
Kindra Ramaker
Senior supply chain manager
I am running for office this cycle because …
Mueller: I have an interest in local government and the current commissioner (Matt Flynn) decided not to file again. With my government and small business experience I believe that I could adapt well to the large learning curve that will involve being a county commissioner.
Ramaker: Our local economy is more complex, and the office of County Commissioner covers more scope than road maintenance, and residents of District 4 deserve a candidate who will have answers to problems that go beyond roads and land use. I will be the strongest candidate for this position because I have a background in public policy, and 20 years of leadership experience leading large complex projects that require sound problem solving, decision making skills, and communication skills.
What I hear from constituents in my district is …
Mueller: Funding and property taxes, what is needed in the rural areas and small cities. Also property tax policies, what changes could be possible.
Ramaker: That they are struggling with affordable childcare and care of elderly or special needs loved ones and that the weight of this responsibility in addition to working full time is no longer sustainable. That responsibility is not seen as a burden, it is something that District 4 families want to be able to meet, but they need access to the services and facilities that can support these needs safely.
One issue facing the county that deserves more attention is …
Mueller: With the rapid growth in Olmsted County, the infrastructure for the smaller cities and rural areas also need funding to adapt to increased population.
Ramaker: That we don't have strong enough environmentally-focused frameworks guiding our land use policies. We need more specific definition related to environmental principles when we use the words 'good stewards of the land'. And we need that worked into the legal framework.
When approving an annual budget, I would ensure …
Mueller: That funding for infrastructure and law enforcement is adequate; falling behind fiscally makes it difficult to recover.
Ramaker: That county government is not taking on programs that businesses and nonprofits should be handling. The government should only be getting involved when we have significant evidence of market failures paired with urgent community needs.
The most important thing I can do as commissioner is ...
Mueller: Listen, make sound decisions, not in haste and be respectful to other individuals.
Ramaker: Work to empower the people, businesses, and nonprofits of our community to create a thriving and inclusive Olmsted County, especially by trusting the expertise we have in our district, listening and empowering those who are closest to the issues, and showing leadership in decision making and policy development.
County Board District 5
Catherine Davis
Learning and development professional
Michelle Rossman
VP for environmental stewardship for Dairy Management Inc.
I am running for office this cycle because …
Davis: I want to apply my experience to the Olmsted County Board to build on the policies and direction set by previous boards and reimagine how to deliver services to meet everyone’s needs. I believe government works best when community members are involved and their lived and learned experiences are listened to and included in policy change.
Rossman: My skills, life experience and commitment to public service make a great foundation for the role of county commissioner. I’m ready to serve Olmsted County District 5 as a committed, honest, educated and humble public servant. My experience in working with diverse groups to address challenges and develop solutions that are impactful and utilize resources efficiently will be useful in county government discussions.
What I hear from constituents in my district is …
Davis: Concern about the Highway 14/CSAH 44 intersection. For safety reasons, medians were closed leaving just right turn options. Citizens are concerned about both residential and business accessibility.
Rossman: County resources must be utilized effectively and efficiently. I commit to being a good steward of taxpayer dollars. The growth in my district must be supported with infrastructure and strategic planning that ensures public safety and safe roads. Careful consideration must be given to tax increases that are not excessive but are adequate to fund essential programs and services. Small businesses are essential to thriving communities and our tax structures shouldn’t burden their long-term viability.
One issue facing the county that deserves more attention is …
Davis: The creation of more affordable housing options for our residents. By continuing current public/private/nonprofit partnerships as well as creating new incentives, we can increase the amount of affordable housing available for purchase in order to help individuals develop more equity and generational wealth.
Rossman: The opportunity to work with surrounding communities to diversify the businesses and industries in our area. We need to discuss economic incentives to bring new industry to our area that will provide jobs for our citizens. Our area has many opportunities for residents with college degrees as well as a strong hospitality industry but I feel we could attract more manufacturing and industries who need people skilled in the trades to our area.
When approving an annual budget, I would ensure …
Davis: Balancing residents’ thoughts about levy increases with identified needs from County staff. We know inflation is affecting everyone with higher costs for food, gas, and other items. This has caused an increased demand for county services. As County Commissioner, we have a responsibility to listen to our constituents while also prioritizing what needs to be funded at the County in order to serve as many people as possible.
Rossman: We’re making informed decisions based on sound data and strategic direction and needs. We must protect our financial foundation while forecasting the demand on county programs and services. At times, hard decisions will need to be made regarding capital expenditures and non-essential services costs.
The most important thing I can do as commissioner is …
Davis: To represent my constituents on the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners. I would approach this by listening to multiple perspectives, including individuals with lived and learned experiences in the decision-making process, and continuously checking in with constituents about ways the county can continue to grow.
Rossman: Listen and learn. My role is to represent the needs of the residents of District 5 in county government discussions. I’m eager to learn the details of county government and continue my interactions with fellow citizens. I’m committed to being fully-engaged, tenacious and collaborative as I represent the needs of our district and ensure a vibrant, financially sound and thriving Olmsted County.
County Board District 6
Sheila Kiscaden*
District 6 rep since 2013, Organizational development consultant, former state legislator
I am running for office this cycle because …
Kiscaden: Four current commissioners will be retiring this year. To assure continuity and an orderly transition, I am offering to continue to represent District 6. My knowledge and experience will be valuable for the decisions, oversight, and evaluation of the services the county provides to meet our residents’ and communities’ needs and preferences.
What I hear from constituents in my district is …
Kiscaden: That Olmsted County’s performance generally meets resident’s expectations, but currently more attention needs to be paid to improving the supply and affordability of housing, addressing the increased demand for mental health prevention and treatment services, and strengthening environmental protection.
One issue facing the county that deserves more attention is …
Kiscaden: How to transform Graham Park into a venue that provides opportunities for our residents to gather, celebrate, and learn. Graham Park is currently underutilized but has great potential to become a vibrant community asset that is available for events that will be enjoyed by our residents, visitors, and community organizations and businesses. Progress has been made over the last few years, but Graham Park has much more potential.
When approving an annual budget, I would ensure …
Kiscaden: That we continue to follow the prudent fiscal management that has made Olmsted one of the few counties in the nation that wins awards for its high-quality services and for its ability to innovate, while also consistently earning AAA bond ratings from both national rating agencies.
The most important thing I can do as commissioner is …
Kiscaden: To stay attuned to the changing needs, opportunities, and aspirations of our dynamic, growing, ever more diverse county.
Note: Candidates were asked to limit written responses to approximately 75 words. Minor edits were made for clarity.
*Running unopposed
