Carlton Mayor Candidates

Ann Gustafson

Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications.

I have lived in Carlton and worked in Cloquet for 20 years. I am a parent, spouse, educator, farmer, and nature enthusiast. I served first on the Thomson then Carlton City Councils for 14 years. Next, I served the Carlton School Board for one term. Then, I needed a break...

What made you decide to run for mayor this year?

First and foremost, to make a positive difference in my community. But also, a friend pestered me, and my husband misses the fire department steak dinner.

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

One issue is having a limited tax base and the second issue is increasing costs.

Having a limited tax base is inherent but not unique to cities our size. Because of this, it puts a heavier tax burden on the residents and businesses currently here in the community. I would find creative solutions to attract businesses, and increase or improve housing. Minnesota is a great state for offering programs that can help in these areas! Oftentimes, the difficulty is connecting our residents and business owners with these.

Secondly, for increasing costs, it's critical to understand where the city sits with its budget, debt and maintenance needs. Then, we can potentially recalibrate expenditures. It's also imperative to keep trying to find extra funding for small cities through grant and aid programs by continuing to contact and collaborate with neighboring cities, the state and federal representatives to ask for financial help. Finally, I would work to continue to capitalize on Carlton's beautiful setting, natural resources and dedicated people.

Elaborate on an issue you think was handled well in your city over the past two years.

Carlton has been great at maintaining infrastructure and collaborating with the county to get a new waterline to the Highway 210 corridor. While there's drawbacks with moving the justice system out of town, the city did everything it could to help make the infrastructure available. The Fire and Ambulance Departments have continued to operate diligently to serve Carlton and surrounding communities. Finally, City staff are consistently professional and productive in their roles.

Why should people vote for you?

While I have plenty of previous elected experience, I bring a unique perspective to issues. Representing working families is important and often lost on elected positions due to the time constraints of life. I am kind, honest and hardworking and I want to see Carlton thrive!

Mike Soderstrom(I)

Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications.

I am married and have four adult children. I have been the Mayor of Carlton for approximately the last six years. I recently retired after a 33-year career with the Carlton County Sheriff's Office. I'm a member of the Carlton area Lions club and an active member of the community.

What made you decide to run for mayor this year?

I believe the city is on the right track for future growth. We're planning for street and infrastructure improvements and I'd like to be part of that.

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

In any small city, funding for streets and infrastructure is a top issue. During my term, the city has worked with a consulting firm to help us plan for the future. The city is saving money for large expenditures. The cost of road construction and water and sewer maintenance is staggering. We are always looking for grant opportunities for funding to help our local taxpayers. We try to be fiscally responsible but still provide you with the services you deserve.

I also feel that attracting and retaining small businesses is crucial. Small businesses are the backbone of our city. I am pleased that in the last year, multiple small businesses have opened in our downtown area. It is imperative that we support these businesses to keep our city vibrant. The city has also had conversations with the county regarding new development in our downtown area.

Elaborate on an issue you think was handled well in your city over the past two years.

I believe the waterline expansion project with Twin Lakes Twp benefitted both communities. The city has a wonderful working relationship with the township. By working together, we completed a large project with cost savings to both communities. I also feel our fire/ambulance service deserves recognition. I am very proud of our first responders that run towards what most people run away from. They are highly trained and provide an invaluable service to our community.

Why should people vote for you?

As mayor, I have experience and a working knowledge of city functions. I am dedicated to public safety and providing the best services possible. I understand everyone is under financial strain right now. I will do my best to provide the best city services in the most cost effective manner.