Why are you running for office?

I’m running because Goodhue County needs a commissioner who listens and uses common sense. I’ve spent most of my life here, farming, raising a family, serving on the Belle Creek Township board, and working with our local fire association. I see firsthand how decisions at the county level affect everyday life, from taxes to roads to public safety. I’m not interested in dividing people or pushing big dramatic changes. I’m interested in being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars and making sure residents feel heard. I want to bring a practical, level headed approach to the board and help keep Goodhue County a strong place to live, work, and farm.

What experiences have prepared you to serve effectively in this role?

I bring nearly two decades of township leadership, hands on experience running a family farm, and the perspective of a small business owner. My wife and I have lived on our third generation farm for 20 years, where we raise corn and soybeans. We also run Ryan Manufacturing, which employs local workers and gives me a clear understanding of the challenges small businesses face. Serving as chairman of both the Belle Creek Township board and the Goodhue Fire Association has taught me how to work with people, manage budgets, and make decisions that affect the whole community. I’m used to listening, asking questions, and finding practical solutions.

What are your top three priorities if elected?

My first priority is getting control of rapidly increasing property taxes. Families, farmers, and businesses are feeling the pressure, and we need to take a hard look at the budget and find responsible ways to manage costs. Second, I want to establish a clear regulatory framework for data centers, so we’re prepared for future development and protect our infrastructure and communities. Lastly, transparency between county and local governments (cities, townships, etc.) means open communication, clear decision-making and sharing information in a timely manner so that local officials and the public understand how decisions are made and how public resources are being used.

How do plan to address your top priorities?

My approach is simple: listen to residents, use common sense, and make decisions that keep Goodhue County strong. I don’t believe in dramatic overhauls, but I do believe in steady, thoughtful improvements.

What do you believe is the greatest challenge facing the people you hope to represent?

Property taxes and growth pressures are big challenges right now. People want to know their tax dollars are being used wisely, and they want development that fits our rural communities. At the same time, we have opportunities, strong local businesses, dedicated farmers, and communities that care about each other. If we manage growth responsibly and keep communication open, we can protect what makes Goodhue County special while planning for the future. Rural mental health access is also a challenge, and we need practical, community based solutions that actually work for our residents.

Public service requires collaboration. How would you work with individuals who hold different viewpoints?

I’ve spent 19 years on the township board, and one thing I’ve learned is that you don’t get far by arguing. You get far by listening. I’m used to working with people who see things differently, and I always try to understand where they’re coming from. My approach is straightforward: hear people out, ask questions, and look for common ground. We’re all trying to make Goodhue County better, and that’s a good place to start. I don’t believe in dividing people. I believe in working together.

How will you communicate with and remain accessible to your constituents?

I’ve always been accessible, and that won’t change. People know they can call me, stop me at the shop or a meeting, or reach out if they have a concern. I’ll continue attending local meetings, staying active in the community, and keeping communication open through phone, email, and in person conversations. The best way to understand what people need is to hear directly from them, and I take that seriously. Listening is a big part of the job.

At the end of your term, what accomplishments would define success?

A successful term means residents feel heard, taxpayer dollars are used responsibly, and we’ve made steady improvements without unnecessary drama. If property taxes are under control, services are running smoothly, and people feel confident in the decisions being made at the county level, then I’ve done my job. Success isn’t about big headlines; it’s about practical results that make life better for the people who live here.

Tell voters something about yourself outside of politics.

I’m a husband, a dad, a farmer, and a small business owner. I’ve lived and worked in this community most of my life. I care about Goodhue County because it’s home. I’m not running for attention or politics, I’m running because I want to help keep this a strong, safe, and stable place for the next generation. I believe in hard work, listening to people, and using common sense. That’s who I am, and that’s how I’ll serve.