Primary elections are Tuesday, August 9.
In our area there are primary elections for commissioners district 3 (Caledonia, Caledonia Township), and district 5, (Spring Grove, Eitzen, Wilmington, parts of Winnebago Townships).
A primary is also set for Minnesota’s Third Judicial District.
In addition, two candidates filed for US House District 1 on the Republican side. However, candidate Steve Williams didn’t return voter’s guide information.
The following information is to help you, the voter, make an informed decision.
The candidates were asked to stick to a roughly 50 word limit, so only those candidates who went well over that limit had their answers edited; and even then it was as minimal as possible.
The same questions were posed to each of the respective candidates in their respective races. They all had the same amount of time to return their answers.
We hope you’ll use the information contained on the following pages when making your decision this August 9 in the primary election.
Bruce Bulman: Candidate District 3
1. Tell us about you, i.e. name, background, why you’re running, etc.
BB: I was born and raised on a dairy farm northeast of Caledonia. I am married to Diane and we moved back to the Caledonia area in 1992. We have three grown children, Anna, Paul and Thomas. I work as an independent insurance and securities representative. If elected, I hope to participate in restoring confidence in county government by advocating for conservative common sense solutions to the challenges facing Houston County.
2. What changes would you propose to the ordinances in this county?
BB: The list of ordinances on the county’s website is stated as being a ‘partial list’ and I have not reviewed those not listed on the site. Some are extensive and full of ‘legalese’ (the zoning ordinance in particular). I am in favor of regular scheduled review of all ordinances to determine continued legal validity and need. I am a believer in keeping things as simple and understandable as possible for all parties involved.
3. What needs to happen by way of enforcement of the ordinances that either are, or will be in place?
BB: If an ordinance is unenforceable or not equitably enforced with current staff, what is the point of having the ordinance? Our taxpayers are already overburdened by the current size and budget of our county government.
4. What solutions would you propose to the ongoing highway department shop discussion?
BB: There is no doubt in my mind that the current site can be used to build new and/or improve current facilities so that the needs of our highway department will be met both now and in the forseeable future. The input of experienced citizens in the construction and/or use of similar maintenance facilities is invaluable and should not be ignored.
5. What is your vision for the historic jail building?
BB: I enjoy and value history and believe that there has to be a useful purpose for such a solidly built historic building. I have no specific idea at this time, but I am not in favor of demolishing it.
6. How would the public comment portion of the meetings look if you were elected?
BB: I am in favor of public comments near the beginning of each meeting as long as they are conducted in an orderly and respectful manner by both the board and the public.
7. Where do you stand on the need and implementation of hiring a county administrator?
BB: I am generally not in favor of adding another level of bureaucracy. I am interested in how counties of similar size and demographics conduct their business in this regard. If this were done, it should come about by substantial reduction in the pay and benefits afforded to the commissioners, so that the hire would be budget neutral.
8. What can be done in your mind to regain the public’s trust in the county government?
BB: The ability to listen and show respect for the thoughts and concerns of our constituents as well as the ability to exercise fiscal restraint are paramount to regaining the public’s trust. We will not always agree, but we can strive to treat others as we would like to be treated.
Steve Schuldt: Candidate District 3
1. Tell us about you, i.e. name, background, why you’re running, etc.
SS: My name is Steve Schuldt and I am the incumbent commissioner for District 3 of Houston County, which covers Caledonia Township and the City of Caledonia. My degree is in accounting and my work background is finance, having been employed with the banking industry for more than 30 years. I currently work for the city of Eitzen as their city clerk and I conduct auctions in my spare time. I’m running for re-election because I feel that I have not yet completed several challenges facing the county and my experience will be needed to resolve those issues.
2. What changes would you propose to the ordinances in this county?
SS: The planning and zoning board is considering several amendments to the ordinance which will better define certain land uses and land features. It will also establish and clarify due process and consequences for violations. I’m in favor of these and other amendments to the ordinance which will help protect the public as well as permitting land uses that may not have been allowed previously.
3. What needs to happen by way of enforcement of the ordinances that either are, or will be in place?
SS: Without enforcement, the ordinance is useless. The ordinance is now and will continue to be enforced. There is a move to force nonconforming users out of business by enforcement, especially in the area of mining. I am not in favor of heavy handed authoritarian treatment of small business in our county simply because they existed prior to the advent of our ordinance. Nonconforming users must still comply with all regulations.
4. What solutions would you propose to the ongoing highway department shop discussion?
SS: Plans for replacement of the current highway department facility have been in consideration for 20 years or more. Since I’ve been on the board of commissioners, we have not been able to bring a set of plans to the public due to disagreement by board members. I would like to think that public safety and the preservation of the millions of dollars of county equipment is important enough to finish this project. Houston County has been warned by state agencies that it must modify or replace its existing facility. It needs to be done.
5. What is your vision for the historic jail building?
SS: The historic jail building should be preserved if financially feasible. The board as a whole has agreed that no tax dollars will be spent to remodel the building. We need to continue to seek grants to preserve this stately structure. Once it’s gone there will never be another like it.
6. How would the public comment portion of the meetings look if you were elected?
SS: We currently hold public comment twice per month with only a few people offering comment. I value public input and welcome phone calls from my constituents at any time. In my experience, most people prefer one-on-one private discussion with their commissioner.
7. Where do you stand on the need and implementation of hiring a county administrator?
SS: An administrator would certainly relieve the county board of many administrative responsibilities that at times can be very sensitive and complex. However, adding the position will be expensive. I prefer to stay the course and seek counsel from the county attorney and human resources departments.
8. What can be done in your mind to regain the public’s trust in the county government?
SS: The public’s trust can only be regained with a unified board of commissioners that can certainly disagree on issues but in the end do what is best for the citizens of Houston County. Board members are elected to conduct county business in a very business-like manner for the benefit of its citizens. The county board is no place for self-centered arrogance, narcissism or child-like tantrums.
Bruce Kuehmichel: Candidate District 3
1. Tell us about you, i.e. name, background, why you’re running, etc.
BK: Bruce Kuehmichel, resident of Caledonia since 1992. Education: Teaching degree and Masters in library science. Worked as librarian and purchasing agent for the National Park Service, Apostle Island National Lakeshore; teacher; remodeler; currently retired. We have too much controversy on the board; citizens are ignored. I’m for responsive, open governance.
2. What changes would you propose to the ordinances in this county?
BK: Based on the sentiment of the citizens I would: prohibit (ban) specifically industrial silica frac sand mining while continuing to allow mining of sand for agricultural and construction use. Work to improve enforcement of the current mining provisions of the zoning ordinance which have been on the books since 1992.
3. What needs to happen by way of enforcement of the ordinances that either are, or will be in place?
BK: The zoning department admits to understaffing. Current proposed zoning ordinance revisions are attempting to change the “shall” to “may” wording, thus excusing staff from enforcement resulting in less protection for county citizens. The current mining ordinance has been neglected 40 years; it’s adequate. Board is obligated to manage enforcement.
4. What solutions would you propose to the ongoing highway department shop discussion?
BK: Abide by the will of the people: 1. School District #299 against 22.3 acre adjacent location. 2. City of Caledonia council also against school site. 3. Tax burden weighs heavily across the county. We need a pragmatic, reasoned assessment of county shop needs, not wants, for the next 25-30 years.
5. What is your vision for the historic jail building?
BK: I like stone structures. Without windows and roof, the walls will stand 500 years. That’s enduring. The historic jail and courthouse are Siamese twins on the historic registry. Not to preserve, conserve and re-purpose the jail jeopardizes financial aids. We need to pull together to maintain this monument from our founders.
6. How would the public comment portion of the meetings look if you were elected?
BK: Having attended most board meetings over 4 1/2 years, I have witnessed the willful ignoring and disregard of county citizens’ voices. It’s disturbing. The board’s business is the business of the people, not shuffling papers. Past practice had a board solicit opinions throughout the entire meeting. We need that dialogue again.
7. Where do you stand on the need and implementation of hiring a county administrator?
BK: Minnesota has 87 counties, two of which have no administrator, including Houston. Are county citizens aware of this? The cost is similar to a county attorney or highway engineer. What benefits would an administrator bring? Could board meetings be more focused? It’s worth serious consideration.
8. What can be done in your mind to regain the public’s trust in the county government?
BK: I’ve witnessed open meetings violations, reneging on verbal promises, ignoring past approved motions, willful disregard of following and enforcing the zoning ordinance, retaliation by misapplication of zoning provisions, heeding bad advice and discounting sound legal advice. The board should be open-minded, follow the law and the democratic process.
Larry Salm: Candidate District 3
1. Tell us about you, i.e. name, background, why you’re running, etc.
LS: Larry Salm, age 76, raised on a dairy farm in Chilton, Calumet County, Wis. The 12th child out of 15 born to Eva and Martin Salm. Father with eight children.
U.S. Army Veteran and served over three years during the Berlin Crisis.
Education: BA in business administration and a BA in systems and procedures analysis.
2011 Houston County’s Outstanding Senior Citizen Volunteer, Currently a member of various local organizations doing many volunteer works. I thank God daily that I am able to assist many and I enjoy it.
I was asked by many to run for commissioner, District 3. Knowing many undesired issues on hand and myself being deeply concerned about these issues, plus the total lack of transparency and lack of servant leadership in our county government I decided to run.
2. What changes would you propose to the ordinances in this county?
LS: The first thing I would do would be to change the question to, “What changes would the people in District 3 want to change to the ordinances in Houston County?” As the commissioner, my primary duty is to represent the people. The changes that the District 3 people wish to change are the changes I would propose.
3. What needs to happen by way of enforcement of the ordinances that either are, or will be in place?
LS: The first thing should be to make the ordinances transparent, in total, to the people of District 3 and then the people of District 3 will be able to consider and advise the commissioner their opinion on the lack of enforcement. Ordinances must be clear, logical and understandable to all or they become extremely difficult to enforce. On the other hand, if a commissioner knows of a violation, they should take immediate action to rectify the situation.
4. What solutions would you propose to the ongoing highway department shop discussion?
LS: As a very minimum, they should review exactly what the current highway shop has done for the last three years. Consider every piece of equipment as to where it was located, what was done to it, the number of hours used and the estimated yearly usage cost of each piece of equipment. They have been operating these past three years with its current building and equipment. From there a needs list should be prepared. It should be possible to discuss and maybe determine the complete future needs and what must be changed or must be improved.
5. What is your vision for the historic jail building?
LS: The first item should be what is the vision of the people in District 3 to include the historical personnel? From there, I would represent the people’s vision or visions. After all, the jail building belongs to “we the people.”
6. How would the public comment portion of the meetings look if you were elected?
These meetings are with all the commissioners. All the commissioners should work out a system and procedure and make it known and understood to all the people in Houston County. Without question, the public must be given their right to be heard. I would represent the people’s wants in District 3. However, I think the system or procedure would be such that all the public have an equal opportunity. Accordingly, some meeting would be in the daytime and some in the evening along with other items to make certain that all have equal opportunity.
7. Where do you stand on the need and implementation of hiring a county administrator?
LS: The first point is – can we afford to even consider hiring a county administrator? Where would these additional funds come from to pay the administrator? I think “we the people” must know those answers first. Since financial status and reports have not been issued to “we the people” we are help less to answer.
8. What can be done in your mind to regain the public’s trust in the county government?
LS: There are many things that must be done to regain the public’s trust. The first thing is to immediately become transparent with financial reports and all other items. We the people must know what is the condition of Houston County? We should have servant leadership and all commissioners must represent the people in their district. We must get back to being a true democracy – of the people, by the people and for the people. We should be more trustworthy and everything should be done in the open and if you vote on an issue that should be it. All the people in your district should be able to realize that you represented them. We must remember that in a democracy there is “we the people” and never I or ME the people. All employees of Houston County should remember that they are servant leaders. Every employee’s job is important or the job eliminated.
Fred Arnold: Candidate District 5
1. Tell us about you i.e. name, background, why you’re running, etc.
FA: I’m Fred Arnold, a retired dairy farmer. BA Luther College (1960) MA U. of M. 1969. 14 years teaching experience. Farmed in Wilmington Twp. with Barbara from 1974 to 2014. Spring Grove school board 19 1/2 years. My goal as a county board member is to attempt to improve the consistency of board decisions in a financially responsible manner.
2. What changes would you propose to the ordinances in this county?
FA: The Planning and Zoning Commission is currently studying this issue. There are obviously updates and changes that need to be made in this 250 page document. I hope that the parties involved in the many disputes inherent in this process will be willing to make the compromises necessary to make the results fair, reasonable and enforceable.
3. What needs to happen by way of enforcement of the ordinances that either are, or will be in place?
FA: Enforcement needs to be fair, consistent, prompt and understandable to all parties. I hope that this can be accomplished without the need for additional staff.
4. What solutions would you propose to the ongoing highway department shop discussion?
FA: I’ve been quite involved in this situation for over a year. At this point, it would be very helpful if the Ag Society and county engineer would attempt to compromise on a combination “livestock building” and “storage building” on the east edge of the fairgrounds. That would enable a shop to fit on the existing site west of the fairgrounds.
5. What is your vision for the historic jail building?
FA: Yes, it is an interesting old building. Are the taxpayers interested in paying for the maintenance on an empty building? Can a use be found that will make it financially viable.? Could the county use it for office space? Those are difficult questions, but they need to be answered soon. Unused buildings tend to deteriorate rapidly.
6. How would the public comment portion of the meetings look if you were elected?
FA: My preference at this point would be to restore the weekly public comment period at the beginning of each meeting retaining time limits and rules of conduct. I would like to hear some response from the board to each comment, even if it is only ‘thank you for taking the time to share your concerns with us.’
7. Where do you stand on the need and implementation of hiring a county administrator?
FA: I am fundamentally opposed to hiring a county administrator because of the cost; however, county government does need to be better organized and more accountable to the people who pay the bill. I feel that we need to draw on the experience of other counties of our size to help make this decision.
8. What can be done in your mind to regain the public’s trust in the county government?
FA: People both in and out of county government need to relearn the basic facts that compromise is what makes democratic government work and debates are healthy and necessary, but only issues, not personalities, should be part of the debate process. The use of Roberts Rules of Order could also help this situation.
Loren Lapham: Candidate District 5
1. Tell us about you i.e. name, background, why you’re running, etc.
LL: I am Loren Lapham, a lifelong resident of and farmer in Houston County. My wife, Carol, and I live north of Eitzen. I am a partner in Lapham’s Prairie View Stock Farms along with my brother, Wes. I have also worked for 28 years as a seasonal employee at Beaver Creek Valley State Park. I was elected to a four year term on the RRSWCD Board of Supervisors in 2012 and currently serve on the policy committee for the 1 Watershed 1 Plan for SE Minnesota. Each has provided me with valuable insight into governmental operations. In November I will be finishing a two year term as president of the Houston County Wild Turkey Federation. My main motivation in running for commissioner is the ever increasing property tax bills delivered each year without seeing an increase in the services that are received.
2. What changes would you propose to the ordinances in this county?
LL: Houston County has many ordinances, but I believe Section 27 ~ Mineral Extraction of the zoning ordinance is the topic needing to be addressed. I would like to see the ordinance simply read: Mining sand for the purpose of, or any component of which would be used in the process known as hydraulic fracturing is prohibited. There has been too much time spent trying to make parameters to keep it from happening in Houston County. I do feel the planning commission had a very challenging job. The new buffer law will also need to be addressed within that ordinance.
3. What needs to happen by way of enforcement of the ordinances that either are, or will be in place?
LL: All Ordinances need to be enforced consistently by the appointed authority.
4. What solutions would you propose to the ongoing highway department shop discussion?
LL: I am against any highway complex on the 20 acres north of the Caledonia High School. I feel that a 6-7 million dollar shop/office building is over and above needs. I think people are still feeling the burn of the Criminal Justice Center and of the high school building in the Caledonia School District. Using the current site should be researched as well as looking at the Roverud Building. A solution may encompass a combination of the two.
5. What is your vision for the historic jail building?
LL: The Historic Jail is probably the most structurally sound building in Houston County. At this time, there are grants being submitted to find out what can and cannot be done with it so there is the possibility of re-purposing the building which may include incorporating it into office plans.
6. How would the public comment portion of the meetings look if you were elected?
LL: I think the public comment period should be moved back to the beginning of every board meeting. If you have a board that is open-minded and representing their constituents, the comment period would be minimized by providing an environment where the constituent has already talked to his or her commissioner and feel their concerns are being addressed.
7. Where do you stand on the need and implementation of hiring a county administrator?
LL: I feel adding the position would be adding another layer of administration. The county board should be able to work with the department heads and vice versa to fill the needs of each department.
8. What can be done in your mind to regain the public’s trust in the county government?
LL: Houston County needs to have a county board where residents feel that they are being heard. I believe we are in a time when everyone is so polarized politically – in our county, state, and nationally. We all could use a little more tolerance with people we don’t agree with. As a commissioner, I would understand people’s concerns and fears that a frac sand mine is opening down the road, a large hog complex is being built next door to their home, or their property taxes are getting so high it is hard to make other payments. A home is a man’s castle, he will do everything he can to protect it if he feels not represented or kept informed. Thank you and I look forward to providing the stability I see Houston County needs.
Dan Griffin: Candidate District 5
1. Tell us about you i.e. name, background, why you’re running, etc.
DG: I am Dan Griffin, running for commissioner in District 5, where I have lived for over 50 years. With 5 ½ years on the Planning and Zoning Commission, 30 years as a small business owner, and 20 plus years actively farming, I have a good understanding of the issues facing the county. I am running to provide a reasonable and informed voice on the county board.
2. What changes would you propose to the ordinances in this county?
DG: A number of proposed zoning ordinance changes, which I support, are currently posted on the county website. The Planning Commission will hold a second public hearing on July 28 to finalize their recommendations to the county board. The issues addressed are property splits, dwellings in the agricultural district, mining and definitions.
3. What needs to happen by way of enforcement of the ordinances that either are, or will be in place?
DG: Enforcement of the zoning ordinances rests with the zoning administrator and the county board. Enforcement is largely complaint driven. The zoning administrator investigates complaints and determines whether there is a violation. The zoning administrator and/or the county board act on violations. I don’t see a need for changes to this procedure.
4. What solutions would you propose to the ongoing highway department shop discussion?
DG: The first step is to assess the current and future needs of the highway department. For example; what are the township needs? What are the equipment, maintenance and storage needs? Building on the present site appears to be the best option, especially if the county could acquire a few more acres.
5. What is your vision for the historic jail building?
DG: The county is in the process of applying for a grant from the Minnesota Historical Society to fund a re-use study for the historic county jail. The results of this study will help the county determine a plan of action.
6. How would the public comment portion of the meetings look if you were elected?
DG: County board meetings are business meetings. There is no law requiring the county board to take public comment. However, I think giving citizens the opportunity to address the board can be informative and productive. If individuals choose to address the board in a disrespectful or repetitive manner, their speaking privileges should be curtailed. If disruptive, they should be asked to leave.
7. Where do you stand on the need and implementation of hiring a county administrator?
DG: Having a county administrator should be evaluated in terms of benefits versus cost. Houston County could draw from the experiences of surrounding counties that have county administrators.
8. What can be done in your mind to regain the public’s trust in the county Government?
DG: I think the public has more of a confidence issue with the county board than a trust issue. There is a difference. Once the vounty board makes a decision, it must move on. Commissioners must treat each other with respect. Public denigration of fellow commissioners and county employees is very counterproductive and erodes confidence in the county board.
Jim Hagedorn: Republican Candidate US House First District
1. Name. Experience. Background
JH: Jim Hagedorn. Born in Blue Earth, Minn. (where I reside today) and grew up in southern Minnesota on the Hagedorn grain and livestock farm near Truman, Minn. I have a wealth of national legislative, media and government reform experience as well as Minnesota small business experience: former Legislative Director for U.S. Rep. Arlan Stangeland (MN-7th); former Director of Legislative and Public Affairs for the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Management Service and Bureau of Engraving and Printing; and former businessman with Steuart’s of Mabel, Minn.
2. What do you see as priorities for voters in southern Minnesota?
JH: Our nation is in serious trouble and rapidly moving in the wrong direction. I stand for bold change to transform the federal government and send power back to the states and American people. Southern Minnesotans, like all Americans, want national leaders to defend the United States and protect the American people from illegal immigration and Islamic supremacists. They also want elected representatives who will create an economic atmosphere so small businesses, farmers and manufacturers can thrive and create high-wage jobs without extreme EPA regulations, regressive fuel and estate taxes and disastrous laws like Obamacare. Lastly, voters want leaders who will protect their God-given Constitutional rights, including the right of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms.
3. What can be done to help grow and retain small businesses in rural segments of the First District?
JH: If elected to serve in Congress I will support commonsense policies to sustain family farming, strengthen small businesses and preserve rural communities. I will vote to replace Obamacare with free market reforms to help drive down skyrocketing health insurance premiums and deductibles. I will support U.S. energy independence to increase disposable incomes and place downward pressure on the cost of fuel, electricity and every product and service in America. And I will vote to end the asinine death tax that crushes family farmers and small enterprises and undermines our rural communities. By contrast, my opponent, Tim Walz, voted for Obamacare, supports extremist anti-energy EPA regulations, supports higher federal and state fuel taxes and has voted repeatedly to sustain the death tax.
4. What should the federal government’s top three priorities be in setting sound energy policy?
JH: I support a national energy strategy of U.S. Energy Independence through an “all of the above” approach. The United States has more natural resources than any nation on earth, yet extremist global warming alarmists like Tim Walz favor EPA regulations and cap and trade policies to bankrupt the coal industry, block oil and gas exploration on federal lands and needlessly drive up your energy costs. I also favor massive construction of the energy infrastructure projects (pipelines, refineries and distribution points) needed to efficiently and effectively utilize our vast natural energy resources. My energy policy will place downward pressure on our cost of living, expand the U.S. economy, make American manufacturing more competitive and create high-wage blue collar jobs.
5. Explain why you do or do not support the Affordable Care Act.
JH: Obamacare is a top-down Washington, D.C. disaster that is destroying the doctor-patient relationship, reducing health insurance competition, forcing millions of Americans from private health insurance to government subsidized insurance, killing high-wage fulltime jobs and forcing thousands of southern Minnesotans to pay astronomical health insurance premiums with deductibles so outrageous the underlying insurance is all but worthless (because people do not reach their deductibles). Tim Walz voted for Obamacare and made promises that turned out to be completely false, for instance, families would save $2,500 per year on health insurance. I support free market reforms to do the following: create nationwide competition for health insurance and place downward pressure on the cost of insurance and deductibles; expand the use of Health Savings Accounts to encourage medical care shopping and reward people for healthy living; offer federal tax credits directly to individuals so workers can take health insurance plans from job-to-job; create high-risk polls so patients can be fully treated for cancer and other serious medical conditions without driving up costs for “healthy” people; tort reform to limit medical malpractice awards and place downward pressure on the cost of medicine.
6. Please explain how you would change U.S. immigration policies or why you believe U.S. immigration policies do not need to be changed.
JH: I stand for the following straight-forward immigration policy: Secure America’s borders; enforce the existing immigration laws of the United States, implement a verifiable work program for foreign labor; establish a biometric entry/exit U.S. Visa and passport system; deport those who enter the United States illegally or overstay temporary visas and passports; enact Kate’s law; block federal funding to sanctuary cities; and reject Obama’s amnesty for illegal aliens. The first responsibility of any federal official is to defend the United States and protect the American people, and that includes defending our borders and protecting citizens from illegal workers, criminals and others who have violated our nation’s immigration laws. By contrast, my opponent, Tim Walz, is an open borders liberal who voted for Obama’s amnesty. Illegal immigration is out-of-control under Obama-Walz.
7. How can the federal government, in collaboration with other levels of government, provide an equitable, quality public education for all children pre-K through grade 12?
JH: The best way to empower parents to manage a proper education for their children is to remove onerous federal regulations, block grant federal funds to the states and encourage governors and legislatures to disburse monies to parents so parents can send children to the school of choice. I am an unapologetic champion of limiting the federal government’s power and wrestling authority from Washington, D.C. bureaucrats and sending it back to the states and American people. If we follow such a model for education, transportation, health care, veterans medical care, taxation, welfare and other areas of government we will improve our nation, states and communities.
8. In your opinion, what are the most important challenges facing our country and how do you propose to address these challenges.
JH: I stand for moving our nation in a new direction by reconnecting with what works: free enterprise capitalism, peace through strength, the rule of law, limited government and defense of the U.S. Constitution and our God-given rights. To grow our economy and create high-wage jobs I support weeding out excessive government, replacing ObamaCare, reforming federal regulatory, tax, budget and welfare policy and achieving U.S. energy independence. To defend America I support maintaining a strong defense, securing America’s borders, implementing a refugee program “timeout” and restricting immigration from radical Islamic nations that hate the United States. To reestablish the rule of law Congress I will fight to ensure that our nation’s laws are written by Congress, not the President and out-of-control agencies like the EPA; and, we can no longer have one set of laws for DC insiders like Hillary Clinton and another for the rest of us. To limit government I support policies to take power from the DC politicians, bureaucrats and interest groups and send it back to the states and the American people (see question 7 for more). And I will fight to the political death to defend our inalienable rights, especially the right to life, the right to keep and bear arms and the right to worship freely.
Carmaine Sturino: District 3 Judge
1. Name, experience/background:
CS: Judge Carmaine Sturino; I am married to an avid outdoorsman and we have one son.
My practice has been exclusive to Southeastern Minnesota; prosecution, defense, family, small claims, etc. As an adjunct college professor, I have taught classes ranging from state and local government to child protection matters.
2. Reason for running?
CS: Being a judge is the pinnacle of public service. People are not statistics and despite pushes for efficiency, presiding over cases requires the life experiences and academic training that have led me to be your incumbent. I believe in accountability in accordance with one’s constitutional rights. Veterans get their lives back on track.
3. What do you believe to be the root causes for the high numbers of juvenile offenders? What changes can the court system make to reduce these numbers?
CS: Parents under economic strain are working multiple jobs; the natural consequence is that adolescents often lack direct supervision when confronted with opportunities to make “good choices” or “bad choices.”
Diversion practices by prosecutors, proactive interactions with youth by law enforcement and after school activities reduce juvenile numbers.
4. How could the costs of judicial administration be reduced?
CS: State funding data must be utilized by the county. State data shows we have more hearings occurring than before, which require longer hours for court security to be present. The “responsive” approach is for the county to pay overtime; the “cost savings approach” may be to hire additional staff.
5. What do you perceive as the greatest obstacles to justice, if any?
CS: The dynamics of a mental health diagnosis and the elements of criminal behavior appear very similar. Once a primary cause is identified, different outcomes are recommended. Not having enough professionals to differentiate the two make arrest, charging decisions, probationary terms and the likelihood of success very difficult to predict.
6. What criteria would you use for deciding whether to impose or affirm sentences outside of standard ranges?
CS: I look for an offenders’ initiative to improve their current situation, ability to ask for help, and honesty regarding what brought them into my courtroom. I also rely heavily on how a victim was affected and risk assessments done by probation agents prior to sentencing.
7. Do you believe there is such a thing as a ‘victimless crime?’ If so, what offenses would you place in this category?
CS: No. Crime is like an iceberg; the immediate crime may appear to be ‘victimless,’ but the invisible reality is that all crimes use already limited resources. For example, officers at a drug crime scene cannot simultaneously respond to a crime involving a victim elsewhere.
Dan Moulton: District 3 Judge
1. Name, experience/background:
DM: I have a broad base of legal experience which resulted as a law clerk for three Olmsted County Court judges, as a law clerk for the Minneapolis City Attorney’s office and as a private attorney in civil, criminal, family, juvenile, municipal and personal injury practice. In 30 years of practice, I have participated in jury trials, court trials, administrative hearings, motion practice and in appeals to our state courts. I have also been the city attorney for several communties. Attended the National Institute for Trial Advocacy 11 day seminar in Kansas for jury trials and a three day seminar for depositions in Chicago.
2. Reason for running?
DM: There were several reasons why I decided to run. First, I wanted to help improve the court system that we have now. It is necessary when we look at our changing society and our constitutional rights. Second, I have a wide range of legal experiences which would allow for a better application of our law in our state. Finally, it is necessary to provide an appropriate demeanor in court to deal with people that come before it.
3. What do you believe to be the root causes for the high numbers of juvenile offenders? What changes can the court system make to reduce these numbers?
DM: I personally believe that there are many home issues. The kids are not always disciplined. The kids have no guidance. And, the kids are allowed to do what they want. There are also outside influences that may lead to drinking or drug use. More intervention by school programming, parent assistance and meaningful programs like DARE would be helpful. In addition, if the court can curb inappropriate behavior of kids as juveniles, it may impact on future behavior so there is no adult court in the future.
4. How could the costs of judicial administration be reduced?
DM: The costs of judicial administration could be reduced by using more community based court appointed attorneys. Also, requiring people to really prove their inability to work and not be able to hire an attorney would reduce that cost also. It would result in allowing the public defenders or the court appointed attorneys to work on very significant work before the court.
5. What do you perceive as the greatest obstacles to justice, if any?
DM: Delay is the problem. There is some delay in making one’s first appearance. When times are set. The times should be adhered to. Default omnibuses have resolved some of that delay. Completing the case on time also reduces time wasted in order to finish cases.
6. What criteria would you use for deciding whether to impose or affirm sentences outside of standard ranges?
DM: I would look at the seriousness of the actions of the individual charged. In criminal matters, there is a great deal of analysis exercised before the matter comes to court. People involved include the police, the prosecutors, the case workers who analyze the actions of the defendant, and penalties proposed. Finally, the judge, reviews the case and deals with the defendant and his counsel.
7. Do you believe there is such a thing as a ‘victimless crime’? If so, what offenses would you place in this category?
DM: I believe there are victimless crimes. Some examples would include, gambling, recreational drug use and prostitution.
Tim Guth: District 3 Judge
1. Name, experience/background:
TG: I’m an Army Veteran (Green Beret). I have been tested in the Special Forces Qualification Course which is over a year long both physically and mentally. I served 1 1/2 years as a Green Beret Sergeant.
I know how to work well with others and on my own. I have 28 years of law experience, as a prosecutor in Winona County for five years and 23 years as a private attorney.
I am also a criminal defense attorney so I know both sides of the criminal justice system. I understand Minnesota’s sentencing guidelines on felonies.
2. Reason for running?
TG: I am running for three reasons: a) If I am elected, I will institute a policy that jurors called to jury duty will not be sitting around for a 1/2 day while attorneys discuss the case. I will make it mandatory that jury trials will be settled by the Wednesday before jury selection on the following Monday, or the trial will go forward.
b) I will institute a Drug Court in Houston County, hoping to use the experience I have with the La Crosse Drug Court to get it up and running. There may be money available from the State of Minnesota to join forces with the Drug Court team in La Crosse. The Drug Court in La Crosse has helped many people get off and stay off drugs.
c) I would also like to institute a Veterans Court in Houston County so that returning veterans of our wars in Iraq, Afghanistan can find the help that they need with PTSD, drug issues and or alcohol issues. There is a Veterans Court up and running in La Crosse and I will try and get our Houston County Veterans who are suffering from these issues to be monitored by a mentor in the La Crosse area who is also a veteran.
3. What do you believe to be the root causes for the high numbers of juvenile offenders? What changes can the court system make to reduce these numbers?
TG: Juveniles in the State of Minnesota are not charged with crimes as an adult would be charged. Juveniles in the State of Minnesota if charged with a crime are treated as delinquency matters. Juvenile records are not to be disclosed to the public. Some juvenile offenses such as DWIs are kept on the person’s driving record however and there may be instances if the crime is severe enough that juvenile offenders can be motioned into adult court but these types of cases are rare at least in Houston County.
4. How could the costs of judicial administration be reduced?
TG: First, institute a court policy that jury trials will be settled the Wednesday before the following Monday jury selection so that jurors and court staff don’t waste their time calling a case that will be settled the morning of the trial. There is no sense in that as it is a waste of taxpayer dollars and jurors time off from work. $20 does not make up a for day’s lost wages. If I am elected, the court will start on time and the parties and their attorneys will be prepared to proceed with the cases as efficiently as possible, there will not be long delays between hearings.
5. What do you perceive as the greatest obstacles to justice, if any?
TG: I don’t believe that Minnesota has any obstacles to justice. I have practiced in two states, (Minnesota and Wisconsin). The Wisconsin Supreme Court has a very definite dysfunction in the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Many times the decisions handed down by the Wisconsin Supreme Court are not in line with due process considerations. The Minnesota district courts, Court of Appeals and the Minnesota Supreme Court are very careful to make sure that due process considerations are always at the forefront of their decisions.
6. What criteria would you use for deciding whether to impose or affirm sentences outside of standard ranges?
TG: Sentences are to be imposed within the range of the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines. It is the prosecutor’s job to decide whether or not to ask for a departure either upward or downward from the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines. The prosecutor must state written reasons for his or her decision to ask for an either upward or downward departure from the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines to both the court and the defense attorney. Depending on the serious nature of the crime and or reasons for the departure, I would carefully review the request and make a decision on the court record as to what I would or would not do.
7. Do you believe there is such a thing as a ‘victimless crime’? If so, what offenses would you place in this category?
TG: I don’t believe that there are victimless crimes. Many people consider drug offenses to be victimless crimes but drug offenses hurt the general public because resources are used to save peoples lives in an overdose, people steal to support their drug habit and drug dealers get other people addicted to drugs.