Christopherson seeks 3rd term as commissioner

Doug Christopherson is seeking re-election in the race for Waseca County Commissioner in District One, representing the cities of Waldorf and New Richland, along with Alton, Freedom, Byron, Vivian, Otisco and New Richland Townships. He has served the county in this capacity for the past eight years, has lived in the area for 31 years, working as crop farmer, he and Karla have raised two daughters, NRHEG graduates Abby, 26 and Olivia, 23.

 

What do you consider the most important part of this job?

 

“I have always believed that the budget is the most important part of being a Commissioner,” Christopherson answered. “We need to control spending to minimize the tax burden on our residents. There are many more aspects to the job that are important though, such as being the liaison for a constituent when they are having difficulty with a situation at the County, whether it be Planning and Zoning, Public Works, Human Services, etc. I want to help constituents navigate through any particular problem they may be experiencing. Being the County’s voice at the State Legislature also ranks high on the priority list.”

 

What particular strengths or experience do you bring to the position that you believe will help you do a good job?

 

“I have been a business owner my entire life, from raising livestock at a young age, to crop farming and running a seed dealership in my adult life,” Christopherson answered. “With this experience I have learned the importance of controlling spending. I also believe that my faith has taught me to treat people the way I would want to be treated, whether it is working with constituents or county staff. I also believe I have a common sense approach to my decision making. This is not a common theme in government and sometimes takes a fair amount of convincing and even then does not always prevail.”

 

What do you feel are the county’s most important concerns at this time?

 

“Over the past several years, we have brought our tax rate down through very limited growth in tax levy,” Christopherson answered. “This has made it much more attractive for businesses to look at Waseca County as a place to locate when starting up or growing a business. We need to focus on this and do what we can to promote business growth that will in turn grow our tax base and lower the tax burden on residents and ag properties.

 

Our jail and justice center will be a topic that will need to be addressed in the near future. It will be important to look at all the aspects and make the right decision for Waseca County's residents for 50 years plus into the future. We have a former Sheriff on our County Board now and he will help guide this topic with his knowledge. Keeping the County safe and minimizing the tax burden on the resident are my main concerns.”