Meet the Candidates
News | Published on October 21, 2024 at 2:34pm CDT
Candidates for Starbuck Mayor
Meet the candidates who are vying for positions on the Starbuck City Council in the Nov. 5th general election.
There are four candidates who are seeking election as Mayor of Starbuck. Those candidates include Incumbent Gary Swenson, Cody Blevins, Luke Wilde and Jeffrey Kleven.
There are five candidates running for two seats on the Starbuck City Council. Those candidates include incumbents Steve Gorder and Mary Baukol; Kris Goracke, Gene Rossum and Jarrod Wilde.
Cody Blevins
Starbuck Mayor Questionnaire
1. Please tell us about your personal background and qualifications for this position:
As a proud Minnewaska Area High School graduate (class of 2012), I’m deeply rooted in this community. My wife and I are raising our two daughters here, and we actively participate in local life. Currently, I serve as a Commissioner on the Planning & Zoning Board, gaining valuable insights into our town’s challenges and opportunities. As a registered architect, I have a unique understanding of urban planning, infrastructure development, and community needs, which makes me well-equipped to serve as an effective city leader. My passion for public service comes from a love for this community, and I’m dedicated to using my skills and experience to ensure the continued growth and well-being of my family and community alike.
2. Why are you running for mayor/city council and what is your top priority for the city if you are elected?
I believe strongly in leading by example. When we see a need for change or improvement, we have a responsibility to step up and be part of the solution. If the circumstances we desire don’t exist, we must create them ourselves. That’s the approach I take in all aspects of my life, and it’s what I would bring to this council position. Transparency, inclusiveness, and authenticity of council will be paramount if I am elected.
3. What do you see is the most pressing issue for the city? And how do you see the issue being addressed?
For over a decade, blight has increasingly eroded the pride of our once-thriving city. As your mayor, I will champion public programs that assist responsible owners with property maintenance and improvements. I’m ready to lead our city toward a brighter future, where we not only address challenges like blight but proactively create the thriving community we all deserve.
4. How will you ensure that the budget is managed efficiently and transparently?
Starbuck’s April 2024 audit clearly shows a strong financial position with a significant increase in our general fund balance. As mayor, I would lean on our experienced council members to continue our successful financial practices while seeking to explore strategic changes that benefit our residents in the long term.
5. Do you believe the city reserves are at a responsible level?
Current reserves are healthy, our debt is declining, and the currently proposed 10% tax increase is excessive. If elected, I would propose redistributing some of our cash reserves to support essential services like: Parks & Recreation, Fire and Police Departments. I will prioritize Strengthening unique amenities such as Hobo Park Campground & Marina to ensure city – owned amenities thrive as profit centers and alleviate tax burden on local residents.
6. How do you plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision making?
To ensure inclusivity, public hearings will have proper notice, be held in the evenings, and offer remote access. This ensures all voices are heard and considered in our community’s decision-making process. To make this possible, I’ll actively seek support to introduce fiber-optic internet into the City from state and federal broadband programs, including the Border-to-Border Broadband Grant and the BEAD Program.
7. What specific strategies would you propose to reduce or eliminate blighted properties in the city, and how would you prioritize which areas to address first?
If elected, I would explore initiatives like community service agreements with the county to enhance the curb appeal of degraded properties. As mayor, I would support adopting a landlord ordinance as an effective tool for reducing blight, improving property values, and creating a safer, more attractive community.
8. Please tell the voters why they should cast their vote for you?
Starbuck is more than just my home – it’s where my heart is. As a young member of this community, I’m ready to dedicate my energy and years of service to ensure its continued success. I’ll be a responsible voice for your tax dollars, ensuring they’re invested in our city’s amenities, like our parks and public spaces. I’m also passionate about protecting our beautiful natural resources, including our wetlands and lakes. I believe, together, we can make Starbuck the brighter side of the lake. I’m ready to work hard to make that happen
Gary E. Swenson
Starbuck Mayor Questionnaire
1. Please tell us about your personal background and qualifications for this position:
Hi, Mayor Gary Swenson here. Starbuck is my hometown where I was raised and have lived here most of my life. Graduated from
Starbuck High School and attended the University of Minnesota before serving in the U.S. Air Force for 4 years in the Air Defense Command, attaining a rank of Staff Sargent. After my service time I returned to U of M College and graduated with a degree in Economics. I worked for 35 years as a public servant for the U.S. Treasury Department, mostly in management positions in office/computer operations, security, bankruptcy, and facilities management in Minnesota, North and South Dakota, with as many as 60 employees and five subordinate managers. After retirement I returned to Starbuck in 2012 after my folks had passed away and I had one goal in mind: do whatever I could to help my home town develop and prosper. After cleaning up and creating rock flower gardens at the beach, serving on the City Planning & Zoning Commission, Friendly Garden Club, VFW Men’s Auxiliary, American Legion and Depot Society, I ran for Mayor of Starbuck at the request of the then Mayor, Bruce Bakewell. After becoming Mayor in 2015, I have seen major progress for the City of Starbuck financially, coming back from near bankruptcy in previous years, adding close to 20 new businesses, more housing, new roads and infrastructure, and a competent, honest and hardworking city staff. There are many factors that played into this change and not all is due to my service as mayor, however. I always strive to do the best job I can and devote my time to achieving the goal of seeing Starbuck progress forward.
2. Why are you running for mayor/city council and what is your top priority for the city fi you are elected?
Major life goal: do everything possible to see Starbuck continue to prosper and thrive, in supporting existing businesses and in attracting new businesses and organizations, staying financially stable and continue to work on new developments that will attract more retired, vacationing and residential people to live, work, patronize and visit our beautiful community.
3 What do you see is the most pressing issue for the city? And how do you see the issue being addressed?
Affordable housing, child care, good schools, new developments and engaging everyone in volunteering/helping our community grow and prosper. Twenty townhouse units have been added on south HWY 29 and 37 more units of affordable housing are in the planning stages.
Also more child care (150+ capacity) has been added at the old SHS and Glacial Hills Elementary schools. Starbuck’s WIN Academy and Glacial Hils Elementary are providing parents with great opportunities for their children, while MAS is a wonderful and highly rated school system serving more elementary and high school students.
Working with the City Council, Pope Co. HRA/EDA and MAS on two affordable housing developments in Starbuck. We are seeing more younger and energetic business owners and residents step forward to serve their community and we hope to listen to, encourage and promote their involvement as we progress forward.
4 How will you ensure that the budget is managed efficiently and transparently?
The budget is being managed efficiently and transparently. The City is audited every year and the reports are presented at the City Council meeting for all to hear and are available for public viewing at the city office. We now have a city staff that is efficient, honest and very knowledgeable in managing the city’s finances. City finances are in excellent shape.
5. Do you believe the city reserves are at a responsible level?
Our financial reserves are in very good shape. However we have several development projects in the works and some unknowns so these reserves will ensure that we can fund and see these projects to completion and stay financially sound. This will help Starbuck progress forward economically.
6. How do you plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision making?
We have a City website (starbuckcitygov.com) and postings on the cable TV access channel. City Council agendas are posted on the city website and at the city office 3 days in advance. All meetings are broadcast on YouTube for viewing. We encourage the community to attend our council meetings and properly state their views for the city council’s benefit in decision making.
7. What specific strategies would you propose to reduce or eliminate blighted properties in the city, and how would you prioritize which areas to address first?
Starbuck has a city ordinance {Title IX< (90) General Regulations} that is quite detailed and comprehensive. I would encourage all residents who are concerned about blight on their own or other properties to familiarize themselves with the ordinance. We would also encourage all residents next door to blighted properties to talk to your neighbors and find out if they have financial or physical problems in cleaning up their property and if you can help them in some way to organize help for them. The City has the tools, but limited time and staffing at present, to fully address the problem. We may have to hire outside contractors to clean up blighted properties and the expense would be charged to the property owners/landlords and if not paid would go on their property tax rolls or their rental permits would be revoked. Obviously, the blighted properties on the main roads/highways and the worst blight should be addressed first. The City Council is working hard to address this perennial problem.
8. Please tell the voters why they should cast their vote for you?
I grew up and was educated in Starbuck for which I am eternally grateful. There has been much progress forward and much more public enthusiasum in recent years and I will continue ot devote my time as mayor to do all I can to see Starbuck continue on that track.
I want to see our existing businesses promoted and new businesses encouraged. We need to support and encourage our cherished community organizations like the iconic Depot Society and the volunteer Starbuck Fire Department and Auxiliary in their work and devotion of making Starbuck a more attractive community and a safe community to visit and live. Let’s keep pushing forward and encourage each other to do whatever we can to keep Starbuck strong.
I know voters will make an informed and wise decision on election day for the Mayor and Council Members positions. Thank you and God bless.
Jeffrey Kleven
Starbuck Mayor Questionnaire
1. Please tell us about your personal background and qualifications for this position:
Agriculture and manufacturing employment; electrical distribution employment; past business owner; and a common sense approach.
2. Why are you running for mayor/city council and what is your top priority for the city if elected?
The taxation issues are becoming overwhelming upon city property owners. I would work to keep taxes down.
3. What do you see is the most pressing issue for the city? And how do you see the issue being addressed?
Taxation. Examination by qualified professionals is needed!
4. How will you ensure that the budget is managed efficiently and transparency?
By Budget spending. The request for extra funds to police are in need of constant overview. We could also add a finance committee.
5. Do you believe the city reserves are at a responsible level?
Yes. Excess reserves must be used for street repairs. Not for plush spending accounts.
6. How do you plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision making?
Through the full support of the city council. Thy Shall Not lead alone.
7. What specific strategies would you proposed to reduce or eliminate blighted properties in the city; and how would you prioritize which areas to address first?
“Blight” is a legal term; in regards to the legal use this must be clarified with common sense. That will solve the methods used in blight enforcement within the city limits of Starbuck, due to residential comments of name dropping of callers in regards to blight enforcement. The City of Starbuck shall be held responsible for all costs related to clean up in the city of Starbuck.
8. Please tell voters why they should cast their vote for you?
Taxation Issues! Business promotion welcome. Our parks are OUR parks and were created for the public use! The city budget is greatly helped by our camping and parks, maior activities are always a plus. Outside investors are going to need constant overview to keep our parks public friendly.
Luke Wilde
Starbuck Mayor Questionnaire
1. Please tell us about your personal background and qualifications for this position:
I work construction and have an intimate knowledge of infrastructure, construction methods and pricing. I have a good understanding of economics from my time reading books and participating in real world trade.
2. Why are you running for mayor/city council and what is your top priority for the city if you are elected?
My top priority as Mayor of Starbuck will be protecting and serving the local residents of our community. I desire to reduce property taxes and reduce the financial burden on the taxpayers of Starbuck.
3. What do you see is the most pressing issue for the city? And how do you see the issue being addressed?
Protecting and preserving our beautiful parks from commercial interests. Removal of the beachside marina which is poisoning our swimming beach with oils, and adding increased wear to the beach parking lot. The hobo park marina will remain intact as is.
4. How will you ensure that the budget is managed efficiently and transparently?
I will personally oversee city expenditures and encourage an audit before, during and after my time as mayor.
5. Do you believe the city reserves are at a responsible level?
The city has a surplus of cash and yet they continue to increase property tax and use special assessments to pay for infrastructure projects. The city has plenty of monetary resources and simply needs to be managed more responsibly.
6. How do you plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision making?
I would be willing to send out regular surveys to city residents to ask about their opinion on the direction the city is taking on the issue of the day. My phone number will also be available for the public to contact me.
7. What specific strategies would you propose to reduce or eliminate blighted properties in the city, and how would you prioritize which areas to address first?
I would setup a volunteer workforce to clean up properties around town who have aging or disabled residents, who cannot clean their own land. I myself would be happy to volunteer to clean our town.
8. Please tell the voters why they should cast their vote for you?
I will reduce their property tax bill, protect our parks and make Starbuck a better place for all of its residents.
Candidates for Starbuck City Council
Mary Baukol
Starbuck Council Questionnaire
1. Please tell us about your personal background and qualifications for this position:
I moved to Starbuck in 1968 and have been involved with many businesses in this community.
2. Why are you running for mayor/city council and what is your top priority for the city if you are elected?
I love this town and I prioritze the people.
3. What do you see is the most pressing issue for the city? And how do you see the issue being addressed?
Affordable housing and saving old businesses and adding new businesses.
4. How will you ensure that the budget is managed efficiently and transparently?
The budget is audited every year and quarterly budget reports are given to the city council and are available to the public.
5. Do you believe the city reserves are at a responsible level?
The auditors are the professionals and they say yes that we have capital reserves ready for future capital improvements.
6. How do you plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision making?
The public is invited to come to the meetings or watch on the city website.
7.What specific strategies would you propose to reduce or eliminate blighted properties in the city, and how would you prioritize which areas to address first?
What a question! I hate it too, but there are ordinance in place and followed by Chapter 90.
8. Please tell the voters why they should cast their vote for you?
I CARE and they know it!
Steve Gorder
Starbuck Council Questionnaire
1. Please tell us about your personal background and qualifications for this position:
I am a lifelong resident of the city of Starbuck, I have owned my own business as well as worked for the local CHS location (a global company) as a division manager for 30 years. Iwas a member of the Starbuck Fire Dept. for 30 years, serving as fire chief for 1 of those years. I was the Emergency Management Director for the city as well as an EMT for our local hospital for 20 years. Currently, I am retired and working as a consultant for CHS.
I have been amember of the Starbuck City Council for 15 years, in which I was appointed to a vacated seat on 3 of those councils.
2. Why are you running for mayor/city council and what is your top priority for the city if you are elected?
I am running for city council because I have the experience and am familiar with the city’s administrative, civic and financial responsibilities to the residents. I would also like to follow thru with the projects and vision the current council has worked on the last 4 years.
3 What do you see is the most pressing issue for the city? And how do you see the issue being addressed?
There are always going to be pressing issues and varying opinions on what should be priority. This current council does its best to deal with issues as they come up. I do believe some issues that need to be addressed are affordable housing, keeping taxes at a reasonable level and supporting local business.
4. How will you ensure that the budget is managed efficiently and transparently?
Our current council has worked hard to provide open and clear communication about the city finances
and limits. This information is always available to the community or anyone with questions on the financial status at the city office. Anyone interested or has questions are encouraged to seek it out.
5. Do you believe the city reserves are at a responsible level?
I do believe the reserves are at aresponsible level and our auditors believe we are fiscally responsible as well. Ibelieve we need to have ahealthy reserve so the city is prepared for unforeseen circumstances.
6. How do you plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision making?
All residents are welcome to call, attend meetings, ask the questions. The current council has always tried to be as open and transparent as possible with the city business.
7. What specific strategies would you propose to reduce or eliminate blighted properties ni the city, and how would you prioritize which areas to address first?
In all my years as a city council member, blight has been a continuous problem and is discussed every year. Rules and regulations can sometimes hinder the enforcement. Some strategies that work one year may not work the next. We also confer with other cities to see what they do for blight and see if other ideas can be implemented here.
8. Please tell the voters why they should cast their vote for you?
I hope the voters see my experience and common sense approach to the issues that affect the city. I have lived here my entire life and have taken part in many different ways to help make this community thrive and grow. Please give me the opportunity to represent you on the council and give me your vote.
Gene Rossom
Starbuck Council Questionnaire
1. Please tell us about your personal background and qualifications for this position:
I am a retired Business Unit Manager at ITW Heartland in Alexandria. I was responsible for all aspects of the business, including budgeting, future projections and personnel management. Fifteen years in that position gave me experience in commuication with people and in fiscal responsibility.
2. Why are you running for city council and what is your top priority for the city if you are elected?
I am running for council because I like to feel proud of where I live. My wife and I moved to Starbuck in 2020 and I don’t see the pride in the city today. My priorities will be to make the city attractive to new businesses and new residents by improving the streets and reducing the blight in the city while limiting tax increases.
3. What do you see is the most pressing issue for the city? And how do you see the issue being addressed?
The most pressing issues are the condition of the streets, the blight in the city and the condition of some older buildings and empty lots. They can be addressed by enforcing existing ordinances and by developing a plan for street improvements. There are sidewalks that are not able to be walked on. About one third of the streets in the city are gravel, and approximately one half of those that are asphalt need repair. I am not aware of any plan to address that. The priorities need to be addressed in order to attract new businesses and new residents.
4. How will you ensure that the budget is managed efficiently and transparently?
By holding everyone accountable to look at options and listening to the citizens of Starbuck and try to develop a forward looking plan for all aspects of the city budget.
5. Do you believe the city reserves are at a responsible level?
I believe that the reserves are higher than they need to be, expecially since there are so many things that need to be improved.
6. How do you plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision making?
Most importantly is to improve communication with the residents of Starbuck and to make any special meetings more available to those who work during the day.
7. What specific strategies would you propose to reduce or eliminate blighted properties in the city, and how would you prioritize which areas to address first?
First is to enforce all current ordinances to remove or hide any unsightly junk from areas that can be seen from the street. That includes industrial and business equipment where weeds and trees grow up through the equipment.
8. Please tell the voters why they should cast their vote for you?
I will support any plan or project that makes sense and improves the city and I will bring a sense of fiscal responsibility to the table while still trying to do my best to control taxes.
Kris Goracke
Starbuck Council Questionnaire
1. Please tell us about your personal background and qualifications for this position:
As a dedicated resident of Starbuck for 39 years and a lifelong Pope County resident, I bring an understanding of our community’s needs to the city council table. My consistent attendance at city council meetings since May 2020 has equipped me with valuable insights into our city’s budget and decision-making processes.
Professional Experience: My 22-year tenure as a communication and English instructor at Minnewaska Area High School, coupled with 15 years at Alexandria Technical and Community College, has honed skills crucial for effective council membership:
• Active listening
• Understanding diverse perspectives
• Collaboration
• Clear and effective communication
• Conflict resolution
Community Involvement: I’ve been an active participant in various community initiatives, including:
• Church activities
• Mentor program for students
• Civic organizations
• School organizations
• Community theater
• Meals and Wheels delivery
Personal Qualities: As a potential city council member, I pride myself on being:
• Organized
• Well-prepared for commitments
• Reliable with follow-through
• Approachable, friendly and open to ideas
These qualities, combined with my experience and community involvement, make me a suitable candidate to represent the citizens of Starbuck on the city council. I am committed to serving our community and working towards its betterment.
Why are you running for mayor/city council and what is your top priority for the city if you are elected?
I’m running for city council because I believe in Starbuck’s potential and want to contribute to its growth and well-being. As a long-time resident and active community member, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities our town faces. My top priority, if elected, would be to create a more vibrant and sustainable Starbuck while addressing our most pressing issues with practical, small-town solutions.
Responsible Budgeting and Property Tax Relief
In a town like ours, every dollar counts. I aim to:
• Conduct a thorough review of our city budget to identify areas where we can reduce spending without compromising essential services.
• Explore grant opportunities and alternative funding sources to support city projects and potentially alleviate the tax burden on residents.
Addressing Blight and Property Maintenance
For a close-knit community, maintaining our town’s appearance is crucial. I propose:
• Organizing regular community clean-up days, leveraging the power of local volunteers to beautify our town.
• Implementing a friendly neighbor program to assist elderly or disabled residents with property upkeep.
• Reviewing our property maintenance codes to ensure they’re appropriate for Starbuck’s size and character.
• Exploring the possibility of a small grant or low-interest loan program to help homeowners with limited means make necessary repairs.
Improving Accessibility in Public Spaces
While we may not have extensive resources, we can still work towards making Starbuck more accessible. I plan to:
• Prioritize achievable improvements in our city park and other public spaces to enhance accessibility.
• Seek volunteer support and explore partnerships with local businesses for accessibility projects.
• Investigate low-cost solutions to address basic ADA compliance issues in our most frequented public areas.
• Actively seek out and apply for grants specifically designed to improve accessibility in small towns.
• Form a community-based “Park for Everyone” committee to collaborate on creating an inclusive park space that caters to all residents, regardless of age or ability.
This committee will bring together diverse voices from our community to ensure that our park improvements reflect the needs and desires of all Starbuck residents. By combining grant funding with community input and volunteer efforts, we can work towards creating a truly inclusive recreational space that enhances the quality of life for everyone in our town.
By focusing on these areas, we can create a more financially stable, attractive, and inclusive Starbuck. My experience as a long-time resident, educator, and active community member has prepared me to tackle these challenges effectively, working collaboratively with other council members, city staff, and most importantly, our community members. Together, we can make Starbuck an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.
What do you see is the most pressing issue for the city? And how do you see the issue being addressed?
The most pressing issue facing our city is the need for sustainable growth and development, which encompasses several interconnected challenges.
Housing and Community Growth
The lack of affordable housing options is a significant concern for Starbuck. While property taxes play a role in this issue, it’s important to recognize that multiple factors contribute to our housing challenges. We need to focus on creating an environment that encourages both new residents and businesses to choose our community. I’m encouraged by the recent efforts of our Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) to address this issue. Their project to bring 17 new homes to Starbuck is a positive step towards increasing our housing stock and attracting new residents. We should continue to support and expand such initiatives.
Childcare Availability
Access to quality childcare is crucial for young families and can be a deciding factor for those considering a move to our area. I’m pleased to note the recent opening and expansion of two daycares in our area – the Glacial Hills School and the Lakes Area Enrichment Center. These additions significantly improve our childcare landscape and make our community more attractive to young families.
Balanced Approach to City Finances
While we must be mindful of our tax rates, it’s equally important to ensure we’re investing in the services and infrastructure that make Starbuck a desirable place to live. We need to strike a balance between keeping taxes manageable and funding essential services and improvements.To address these interconnected issues, I propose:
1. Collaborating with the HRA and local developers to explore innovative housing solutions that cater to various income levels.
2. Supporting and incentivizing new businesses, particularly those that provide essential services or create job opportunities.
3. Continuing to work with childcare providers to ensure we meet the growing demand for these services.
4. Conducting a thorough review of our city budget to identify areas where we can optimize spending without compromising essential services.
5. Exploring grant opportunities and alternative funding sources to support city projects and potentially alleviate the tax burden on residents.
By focusing on these areas, we can create a more vibrant and attractive Starbuck that encourages growth while maintaining the small-town charm that makes our community special. As your city council member, I’m committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to address these challenges and build a brighter future for our city.
How will you ensure that the budget is managed efficiently and transparently?
As a city council member, I would be committed to managing our town’s budget efficiently and transparently. Here’s how I plan to achieve this:
Open Communication and Accessibility
• Ensure all city council meetings, including work sessions and special meetings, are held in the evening when most residents can attend. This is a departure from the current practice of holding some important meetings during daytime hours, which limits public participation.
• Encourage open discussions at council meetings with ample opportunity for public input.
• Publish easy-to-understand budget summaries on the town’s website and in local newsletters.
• Hold regular town hall meetings to discuss budget priorities and gather community feedback.
Efficient Resource Management
• Conduct a thorough review of our current budget to identify areas where we can optimize spending without compromising essential services.
• Explore opportunities for shared services or equipment with neighboring towns to reduce costs.
• Prioritize multi-use facilities that can serve various community needs, maximizing the utility of our limited resources.
Alternative Revenue Sources
• Actively seek out grants specifically designed for small towns to fund projects without burdening taxpayers.
• Explore creative fundraising initiatives, such as community events or sponsorship programs, to support specific projects.
Fiscal Responsibility
• Implement long-range planning to promote efficiency and develop clear budget procedures to track revenues and expenses.
• Regularly review and update our financial policies to ensure they align with best practices for small town governance.
Leveraging Local Expertise
• Form a volunteer budget advisory committee comprising residents with financial expertise to provide additional oversight and recommendations.
• Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to support economic development initiatives that can strengthen our tax base over time.
By implementing these strategies, we can ensure that our town’s limited resources are managed efficiently and that every resident has the opportunity to understand and participate in the budgeting process. This approach will help us maintain fiscal responsibility while still investing in the services and infrastructure that make our community a great place to live.
I believe that transparency and accessibility are key to good governance. By moving all council meetings, including work sessions and special meetings, to evening hours, we’ll ensure that all residents have the opportunity to attend and participate in important discussions that impact our city. This change will foster greater community engagement and ensure that decisions are made with full public awareness and input, unlike the current practice which can sometimes exclude working residents from the process. Through these measures, we can create a more inclusive, transparent, and efficient budgeting process that serves the needs of all our residents and helps build a stronger future for our town.
Do you believe the city reserves are at a responsible level?
While maintaining adequate reserves is crucial for a city’s financial stability, I believe our current reserve levels are excessive and not in the best interest of our citizens. Here’s why: The state auditor recommends cities maintain reserves of 35-50% of total receipts, with about five months’ worth of receipts in their fund balance. However, Starbuck far exceeds these guidelines:
• Our reserve is at 123% of total receipts, more than double the upper recommended limit.
• We have 17 months’ worth of receipts in our fund balance, over three times the suggested amount.
Our general fund’s cash and investment balance has grown significantly. This rapid growth, primarily fueled by rising property taxes, raises concerns about whether we’re overtaxing our residents.While it’s prudent to maintain a healthy financial position, our current reserves seem excessive. We should aim to strike a balance between financial security and responsible use of taxpayer money. By following the state auditor’s guidelines more closely, we could potentially:
1. Reduce the tax burden on our citizens
2. Invest in needed infrastructure improvements
3. Enhance city services without increasing taxes
As a council member, I would advocate for a thorough review of our reserve policy. We should aim to align more closely with state recommendations while ensuring we maintain sufficient funds for emergencies and future needs. This approach would demonstrate fiscal responsibility while respecting the financial contributions of our residents.
How do you plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision making?
In a small town like ours, it’s crucial that everyone feels informed and involved in city decisions. Many citizens have expressed that they don’t know what’s happening in our city, and I’m committed to changing that. Here’s how I plan to promote community engagement and transparency in decision-making:
1. Evening Council Meetings: As previously mentioned, we’ll ensure all council meetings, including work sessions, are held in the evening when most residents can attend.
2. Monthly Newsletter: Distribute a concise, easy-to-read newsletter to every household, highlighting recent decisions, upcoming issues, and ways to get involved.
3. Quarterly Town Hall Meetings: Host informal gatherings at the community center to discuss local issues and gather input in a relaxed setting.
4. Local Coffee Chats: Organize regular, informal “Coffee with the Council” sessions at local cafes where residents can discuss concerns one-on-one with council members.
5. Partner with Local Organizations: Collaborate with churches, schools, and community groups to disseminate information and gather diverse perspectives.
6. Simplified Budget Summaries: Create and distribute easy-to-understand budget summaries that clearly show how tax dollars are being spent.
7. Youth Engagement: Work with our local schools to involve students in city projects and discussions, fostering civic engagement from a young age.
8. “Open Door” Policy: Encourage residents to reach out directly to council members with questions or concerns, ensuring everyone knows how to contact their representatives.
9. Leverage Local Media: Regularly share updates and important information through our local newspaper and radio station.
10. Community Surveys: Conduct simple, annual surveys to gauge community priorities and satisfaction with city services.
By implementing these strategies, we can create a more connected and informed community. My goal is to ensure that every resident, from our long-time neighbors to our newest arrivals, feels in the loop about city affairs and has ample opportunity to contribute their voice to our town’s future. With improved communication and engagement, we can make decisions that truly reflect the needs and desires of our entire community.
What specific strategies would you propose to reduce or eliminate blighted properties in the city, and how would you prioritize which areas to address first?
To address the issue of blighted properties in our town with limited resources, I propose the following strategies:
1. Create a Volunteer Blight Task Force:
•Recruit community volunteers to assist in identifying and reporting blighted properties.
•This task force can help alleviate the burden on our police department, allowing them to focus on more pressing law enforcement matters.
2.Implement a Tiered Approach:
•Prioritize properties based on safety hazards, visibility, and impact on neighboring properties.
•Focus on high-visibility areas first, such as main streets and areas near schools or parks.
3. Establish a Community Clean-up Program:
•Organize quarterly community clean-up days targeting specific neighborhoods.
•Partner with local businesses for supplies and equipment donations.
•Focus on assisting elderly or other residents who may struggle to maintain their properties.
4. Revise and Streamline City Ordinances:
•Review and update existing blight ordinances to ensure they are clear, fair, and enforceable.
•Create a simplified process for addressing blight issues that doesn’t rely heavily on police involvement.
By implementing these strategies, we can address our blight issues more effectively without overburdening our police department. A prioritization system ensures we focus on the most critical areas first, making the best use of our limited resources. This approach recognizes that blight has been an ongoing issue and requires a strategic, community-wide effort to resolve. We’ll start with the highest-priority properties and areas, building momentum for larger initiatives as we see success.
Please tell the voters why they should cast their vote for you?
As I conclude this questionnaire, I want to take a moment to share why I believe you should cast your vote for me in the upcoming city council election. Having lived in Starbuck for 39 years and being deeply rooted in Pope County, I understand our community’s unique challenges and opportunities. My experience as a communication and English instructor has equipped me with essential skills in active listening, collaboration, and clear communication—qualities that are vital for effective leadership. If elected, my priorities will be:
Fiscal Responsibility: I will work diligently to manage our budget efficiently, ensuring we maintain necessary reserves while avoiding excessive taxation. By holding evening council meetings and promoting transparent budget discussions, I aim to engage every resident in understanding and participating in our financial decisions.
Housing and Growth: I fully support the HRA’s initiative to bring new homes to Starbuck and will explore innovative solutions to attract new residents and businesses. A vibrant community is built on diverse housing options.
Addressing Blight: Blight has been an unresolved issue for years. I propose community-driven strategies to tackle blighted properties, prioritizing safety and visibility without overburdening our police department.
Improving Accessibility: I will actively seek grants and form a community committee to create a park that is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, ensuring that all residents can take advantage of our public spaces.
Enhancing Community Engagement: Keeping residents informed and involved is crucial. I plan to implement strategies such as newsletters, town halls, coffee chats, and youth engagement programs to foster open communication.
Supporting Local Services: I will advocate for an environment that encourages business growth while addressing essential services like childcare, which is vital for attracting young families.
My commitment to Starbuck is demonstrated through my active involvement in community organizations, church activities, and volunteer efforts like Meals on Wheels. I’m organized, reliable, and dedicated to representing your interests on the city council. Together, we can address our challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth. With your vote, I promise to bring fresh perspectives and a collaborative approach to city governance.
Let’s work together to build a brighter future for Starbuck—a place where everyone can thrive. Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to the opportunity to serve our wonderful community on the city council.
