Four candidates are running for two seats on the Apple Valley City Council in November’s election.
General information about the Nov. 5, 2024, election is online at twincities.com/news/politics/elections including information on candidates for races in Ramsey, Dakota and Washington counties.
To find out what’s on your ballot, where to vote and other election information, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s elections page at sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting.
Pat Benner
Age: 32
What would your top priorities be if elected? My top three priorities if elected are to address the exceptional costs for Apple Valley’s employees to cover their families with their health insurance, to prioritize housing development so young families can afford to buy a home in Apple Valley, and to begin cleanup on existing ordinances that are loosely enforced and prevent residents from living how they please on their own property.
What qualifies you to hold this position? I’ve now had 6 years of experience in working with elected officials to find consensus and pass legislation with AFSCME Council 5. I also have plenty of experience in being accountable to my membership, holding informational meetings to explain our position on difficult issues and to keep workers informed on what their government is doing that affects their lives.
What do you think is the primary role of government? The primary role of government is to understand the needs of the public and intervene to improve conditions when and where applicable. I believe that the government must be responsive and collaborative with residents, workers, and elected officials to find solutions that work for as many folks as possible.
How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you? The nature of my job is to collaborate with elected officials across the aisle to create policies that benefit the majority of Minnesotans. I am used to differing opinions, and disagreements. I’ve found the best way to navigate these situations is to keep an open mindset and a curiosity for the world. I don’t know everything, and am willing to learn from experts and those with the lived experiences. There are times when you reach a point that you have to agree to disagree, but remaining respectful goes a long way in maintaining relationships.
Website or contact information: patbennerforapplevalley.com
Ruth Grendahl (incumbent)
Ruth Grendahl. (Courtesy of the candidate)
Age: 69
What would your top priorities be if elected? *Sound management of taxpayer dollars. Moody’s Investor and S&P Global Ratings recently reaffirmed our Triple A Bond Ratings, citing “strong financial management practices” and “an ability to maintain stable financial operations.” Only 10 MN cities have this distinction. *As Chair of the National League Infrastructure and Sustainability Issues – I currently serve as the National League of Cities Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee Chair, an organization of 2,800 cities that advocate nationally on infrastructure and sustainability issues. Strong sustainability efforts are essential to our future. *Water quality and in particular correcting the PFAS contamination challenges cities face is crucial to our water quality. *Strong and Effective Police and Fire Protection
What qualifies you to hold this position? My diverse community service and leadership experience and education (Master of Arts Public Administration) Apple Valley City Council Member – Current National League of Cities (NLC) Board of Directors – Current NLC Energy Environment and Natural Resources Committee Chair – Current Apple Valley Economic Development Authority – Current Minnesota State Colleges & Universities Trustee Confirmed by the Minnesota Senate Vice-Chair – Elected by the Board of Trustees Chair – Human Resources Committee Vice Chair – Finance Committee Chair – Advancement Committee Dakota County G.E.A.R.S. Representative – Elected by Dakota Cities (Grant Evaluation & Review of Metropolitan Transportation Projects) MN Livable Communities Advisory Committee Chair MVTA Commissioner Treasurer Finance Committee Chair MN Women in City Government Executive Board Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce Apple Valley Foundation Minneapolis United Way Allocations Committee Strengthening Families Panel MN Perpich Center for Arts Education Board Chair Personnel & Finance Committee Chairs Confirmed by the Minnesota Senate MN State University Mankato – College of Science, Engineering & Technology Industrial Advisory Board
What do you think is the primary role of government? Sound management of tax dollars to provide city services that residents cannot fulfill individually – Police and Fire Protection, transportation and road infrastructure, parks and recreational opportunities, affordable housing opportunities, safe drinking water, elections that are transparent with accurate results. fair and accurate.
How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you? As an elected official I actively listen to residents first to better understand the issue, as I might not even have an opinion on it yet. If two neighbors are having a disagreement, which often happens in local government, I listen to both sides, do more research if necessary, and then develop an opinion. Often times I have not determined my opinion on an issue until before the council meeting where I engage all parties, listen to their opinions and then make a decision.
Website or contact information: grendahl@charter.net
Lisa Hiebert
Lisa Hiebert. (Courtesy of the candidate)
Age: 50
What would your top priorities be if elected? 1. Build and Maintain Our Public Infrastructure & Steward Our Investment in Parks Prioritize investments for the upkeep and improvements of roads, sidewalks, and sewer and water systems to ensure safe and efficient public facilities and services. As a public works manager for the City of Saint Paul, I address current infrastructure and funding challenges daily while also proactively planning the sustainability of critical infrastructure to meet the future needs of residents and businesses. Enhance our parks, facilities, and programs that encourage outdoor activities, cultural events, and recreational activities for people of all ages. As the current chair of the Apple Valley Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, I am advocating for improving our parks and facilities based on residents’ input. 2. Foster Economic Growth & Development Promote economic development initiatives to attract and retain businesses who support job opportunities to help diversify the city’s tax base. Support strategic plans to increase housing options and explore mixed use development that creates destinations for living, working, and shopping in Apple Valley. As a leader at the Better Business Bureau, I worked with businesses of all sizes to build community trust and relationships. 3. Lead Community Conversations and Connections Foster trust and transparency in local government by gathering resident and business input and ensuring more community voices and needs are reflected in council decisions. As an experienced communications leader in non-profit and local government, I know first-hand the positive impact to our community when we listen, talk, and work together.
What qualifies you to hold this position? As a communicator and community-builder with more than 20 years of non-profit and local government leadership experience, I have always focused on people, programs, and partnerships in my professional and volunteer career to help keep our communities safe, thriving, and connected for all. I am a Public Works manager for the City of Saint Paul. I chair the Apple Valley Parks & Rec Advisory Committee, which I have served on for five years. I have hands-on experience working with businesses of all sizes to build marketplace trust. I have served in many leadership board roles with several non-profits to improve and strengthen our community.
What do you think is the primary role of government? As an Apple Valley City Council member, my primary role with our legislative city would be to make responsible policy and governance decisions through ordinances and resolutions and adopt an annual budget. As an elected official I would work collaboratively to ensure these decisions reflect the input from our residents as well as support the essential work of city staff to efficiently deliver programs, resources, facilities, and services for all residents and businesses to help our community thrive and prosper.
How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you? A safe, thriving, and connected city requires ongoing communication and engagement with residents and businesses to build understanding and trust. Disagreements aren’t bad or wrong; they’re a difference in perspective. As a communicator, I know the power of asking authentic questions to gather insight and to create meaningful change. It’s critically important to recognize what groups and people are not present to give feedback – and then ask why. With my work, I strive to identify and minimize any systematic barriers that might limit community engagement wherever I can (such as language, access, technology).
Website or contact information: votelisahiebert.com
Jon H. Rechtzigel
Jon Rechtzigel. (Courtesy of the candidate)
Age: 60
What would your top priorities be if elected? Ensure Apple Valley has Effective Public Safety which is well equipped and highly trained, Maintain reliable Public Works, and preserve Quality Parks. I believe it is possible to do so and remain fiscally responsible.
What qualifies you to hold this position? I was a public servant for 35 years while employed by the City of Apple Valley in the Police Department. I served in many roles and ended my career serving as Chief of Police for the last ten years. While serving in that capacity I had daily interactions with the community, all levels of government, and most importantly within the municipal government of Apple Valley. I have extensive experience preparing a detailed budget and work cooperatively with others to achieve goals. My wife and I raised our family in this community and have been involved in many organizations and activities along the way.
What do you think is the primary role of government? To provide for the basic needs of its citizens. Public Safety (Police, Fire, EMS), Public Works (streets, water, sewer), and Parks. The local government should ensure those services are provided efficiently and effectively.
How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you? The best approach I’ve found is to get to know them as a person first so we can establish common ground and respect. Effective communication and understanding of different perspectives go a long way toward resolving differences. Sometimes the best possible outcome is not total agreement but mutual respect and understanding.
Website or contact information: jonrechtzigel.com
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