Posted: 10/17/06
County treasurer candidate
Jane Schiltz
Why are you running for this position? I was approached and asked prior to the last election to run for this position. At that time I wanted to stay with my employer - the AmericInn Lodge and Suites - and work through the improvements that were scheduled to be completed in 2005. We installed a new Computer System and Software that allows guests to make their reservations on-line. The installation, training and daily use functions have proven to be a real asset for the AmericInn. I am proud of what we accomplished.
I have always felt that when an opportunity to run for a public office presents itself and you have the qualifications to do the job - you should seek the position. Along with a strong work ethic, I feel I have experience and qualifications.
What are your qualifications? I have 31 years of business experience - including 7 years as Manager of the AmericInn Lodge & Suites of Caledonia. In this position I set up all necessary systems, paperwork, licenses, accounting, etc. to successfully open the first Franchised motel business in Houston County. I interviewed and hired the staff to efficiently run this business, requiring a staff that was willing and able to be available 7 days per week, 24 hours per day.
I also worked for 24 years with the Sprague National Bank of Caledonia ñ now Merchants Bank. I began my employment in 1975 as a teller and in 1979 I was appointed Operations Officer - to implement and oversee the data processing conversion. With this came the opportunity to obtain computer skills, daily business operation skills, people skills, etc.
In 1986 I was promoted to Vice President & Cashier. My responsibilities included preparation and submission of regulatory reports, preparing the budget, payroll accounting and reporting, internal auditor, human resource duties to include: interviewing, hiring and performing employee reviews.
Prior to all of this - during my high school years, I worked in the Houston County Auditorís Office on a part - time basis. I then worked for the Houston County Veterans Service Officer and also supervised the youth employment programs for Houston County.
What are the biggest issues facing the office of county treasurer? Because the incumbent has been running this office since 1985, I am not aware of any ìissuesî that need immediate attention. I would like the opportunity to review the systems and procedures presently used, and implement changes that would better serve the tax payers.
I will use my data processing strengths to assure transactions are completed in a timely manner, and if possible, eliminate duplication of effort.
Any other comments? I am a 51 year old, a life long Houston County resident with at least 31 years of professional job experience. I have a very strong work ethic, I believe in communication and cross training. It is important to share what we know with those that we work with.
I have always worked in an environment where it has been most important to listen to my customers and co-workers. I understand that there is always an opportunity to learn something from someone.
I have been blessed with a positive attitude which helps me to see the opportunities with changes, rather than just the challenges.
I like people! It will be great to have the opportunity to ìget to knowî the residents of Houston County!
Caledonia Argus
314 West Lincoln St.
P.O. Box 227
Caledonia, MN 55921-0227
507/724-3475
E-Mail: editor.argus@ecm-inc.com