Voter Guide: Scanlon City Council (elect 2)

Scott Boedigheimer

Background

I have lived in Scanlon 35 years and retired from the Scanlon fire dept after 20 years of volunteer service. I was assistant chief when I retired and secretary of the fire department relief association. I have been a councilor for eight years now.

What made you decide to run for city council this year?

I am running again so we can keep moving forward with improvements to our city parks, water, sewer and streets which are well used.

What do you think are the top two issues facing the city and how would you go about tackling them?

I think the council so far has been on top of keeping our city running and within our budget. We try to keep our residents informed with what we are doing and helping them when we can.

Elaborate on something you think the current city council has handled well over the past two years.

Keeping within our budget and being fiscally responsible is one of the top priorities that I strive for on the council.

Why should people vote for you?

I hope in November I can move forward with our plans here at the city by being re-elected. Thank you for your time!

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James Pratt

Background

I am a bridge inspector for MnDOT and have been a city councilor for the last nine years. I have assisted with a number of major projects within the city and would like to continue to do so. My background in roads and infrastructure would be beneficial to the city.

What made you decide to run for city council this year?

I would like to continue with the progress we have made so far. And help the city succeed in being as self sufficient as possible.

What do you think are the top two issues facing the city and how would you go about tackling them?

Every city has its own issues. One of our major issues is trying to remain as self sufficient as possible. We have restructured our projects to where we do not burden our citizens with higher taxes to cover the project costs. While doing so we are able to tackle paving and infrastructure projects. I would hope to continue on this path in the future.

And secondly if self sustainability becomes an afterthought I would honestly have an open mind and look into exploring other options while keeping the citizens best interests in mind at all times.

Elaborate on something you think the current city council has handled well over the past two years.

The street department has successfully allocated its funds to all projects set forth every year since I have been in office. I would continue to do so if awarded another four years in office.

Why should people vote for you?

In conclusion I would always give you an honest answer. Sometimes it's not what some want to hear but I would keep it truthful all the time.

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Brett Aldrin

Background

I am a recent transplant to Scanlon. I grew up in Moose Lake township. I’m very passionate about small town life and what makes each community unique. This is my first time running for a civil office. I look forward to meeting my Scanlon neighbors and making a positive impact.

What made you decide to run for city council this year?

I’m running for city council so I can better our community and bring new ideas for how the city can better serve our amazing residents.

What do you think are the top two issues facing the city and how would you go about tackling them?

I don’t see many issues currently with Scanlon. I am always happy to listen to people’s concerns and questions.

Elaborate on something you think the current city council has handled well over the past two years.

I think the current city council has been doing a phenomenal job with everything they do.

Why should people vote for you?

The people of Scanlon should vote for me as I will be a voice for the people and am not afraid to stand up and make their concerns heard.

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Cody Grashorn

Background

My name is Cody Grashorn. I'm 47 years old and have lived in the Cloquet/Scanlon area for some time now. I have two kids. I'm a construction manager for a petroleum company. I grew up in International Falls and moved to the area in 1996.

What made you decide to run for city council this year?

I decided to run for City Council because I want to be involved in the community. It's the right time to get involved.

What do you think are the top two issues facing the city and how would you go about tackling them?

I'm new to the Scanlon community. So I'm not that up on the current issues that the city is facing but understand we need people to step in when asked and help out. I hope to bring a new view and with my knowledge help the people of this close knit community.

Elaborate on something you think the current city council has handled well over the past two years.

Unfortunately I don't have an answer because I'm new to the area. I only recently started becoming involved here.

Why should people vote for you?

I'm asking people to vote for me because I'm a voice for the people of the community. Scanlon is a small town with people that want to be heard. I'm a blue collar worker and will make sure people in this community have a voice.

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Michael Foley

Background

Greetings fellow citizens of Scanlon! I have lived in Carlton County 10 years, and Minnesota for 28. I’m a veteran, a college graduate and a St. Louis County employee. Past affiliations include Scanlon Planning Commission, CHS, WES, CYBSA Board, CYSA, QOP School Board/Marketing Committee, CAT7, Reach Mentoring, VA, DAV, MACV.

What made you decide to run for city council this year?

I want to continue to fulfill civic duties by volunteering time to the local community.

What do you think are the top two issues facing the city and how would you go about tackling them?

A. Peace Is Paramount

Insure security, safety and purpose for all citizens

a. Discover inadequacy and affirm uncertainty

b. Inform quickly, efficiently and completely

c. Devise immediate and effective strategies

d. Execute and maintain positive, lasting results

B. Scanlon Is Home - Invest

Reshape and update existing infrastructure while revitalizing environmental awareness.

a. Research the latest technologies and consider successful methods of surrounding communities

b. Maintain an equitable, fiscal budget within the scope of today - ever mindful of yesterdays future

Elaborate on something you think the current city council has handled well over the past two years.

The current council members have and continue to be prudent in all relevant matters and procedures and scheduling special sessions as needed. They exhibit clarity, transparency and objectiveness particularly with recent issues such as public nuisance, zoning and building ordinances.

Why should people vote for you?

Consider public service over politics and diligently execute your rights. Good luck to all - may the choice be with us, always!