By Charlie Warner
Argus News Editor

Four years ago there were three Caledonia City Council seats open and nobody filed. Just the opposite has happened this year, as no less than 13 persons have filed for four open seats on the local city council.
Seats open this year include the two-year mayor’s term, a two-year council position (to complete the four-year term of former Councilman Paul Fisch, who resigned in February, that Councilwoman Peggy Perry was appointed to), and two four-year terms, currently held by Councilmen Bob Standish and Gary Klug.
Current Mayor Mike Morey is not seeking re-election. Robert “Bob” Burns is the only person to file for the mayor’s spot.
Councilmembers Perry, Standish, and Klug are three of nine persons who have filed for the two four-year terms. The other six include Tom Murphy, Norman Snodgrass, Doug Rusert, Verne Goetzinger, Joe Rud, and Beverly Rud.
Three persons have filed for the two-year term. They are Bob Lemke, Faith Bergin, and Rick Nelson.
The following questions were posed to the 13 candidates through a candidates’ questionnaire. The responses we received follow the questions.
We asked each candidate to include their name, age, education, years they have lived in Caledonia, occupation, civic, community, and/or service groups and organizations they have been involved with, and any elected offices they have held.
#1- The proposed Houston County Criminal Justice Center (CJC) has been one of the most controversial issues the city has been involved in recently. What are your feelings on the size and location of the CJC in Caledonia?
#2- A rift has developed between the Caledonia City Council and the Houston County Board. How would you help resolve this?
#3- The City Council and Caledonia Fire Department have been at odds over procedures involved in purchasing new equipment. What steps would you take to improve this situation?
#4- What are your feelings on the new 150-foot setback requirement the city approved in March 2008 for land zoned ag or industrial that abuts with residential districts?
#5- As a member of the Caledonia City Council, what steps would you take to develop commercial or industrial growth to help create new jobs?
#6- Why do you want to be a member of the Caledonia City Council?

Mayoral candidate
Robert H. (Bob ) Burns, 56, graduate of Caledonia High School, Associate Degree in accounting. Lived in Caledonia for over 44 years. Employed in road construction industry. Retired from Caledonia Volunteer Fire Department (20 years). Church lector and emcee various community functions. Caledonia City Council member 1989-1992 and Mayor 1993-2004.
 
#1- It is my opinion the CJC should be built on court house square, the traditional site of our county government. Court house square is more efficient for county business, a less costly site to build on, not taking higher value properties off the tax rolls and is much better for downtown business. The size of the CJC should be such that it can handle the current as well as the anticipated future needs of the county.  I would hope that the size and cost of the project could be reduced, but that final decision rests with the county board.
#2- I would hope the city and county can settle their differences without going to court. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with the county board, CJC planning committee, sheriff and other involved parties to try and resolve the issue.
#3- I believe the city and all city departments, not just the fire department, must maintain an open dialogue and work “together” to stay within budget and control spending. Bills from the various departments presented to the city for payment need to be properly identified so as to avoid confusi and provide accurate expenditures information. Department heads must be helped to understand their department budgets and meet with the council periodically to review budgets.
#4- I was not in favor of the change. The change could require industrial developers to acquire a larger parcel of property than they might actually need. This cost could drive them to another location. The 150-foot setback does afford the residential site some protection from the building and noise but not from the use of the site for storage of raw materials, inventory, equipment or parking. The ordinance change is now in effect and should be enforced accordingly. However not to say it couldn’t be changed again.
#5- The city should maintain its Economic Development Authority (EDA) in partnership with Houston County and our neighboring cities. We must help to maintain the strength of our existing businesses and help them to grow.  The use of TIF, grants and other funding mechanisms can be a good tool if used properly and based on realistic jobs and growth projections. The city must also continue to support a quality of life we all can participate in- a lifestyle that will keep families in Caledonia as well as invite others to relocate in Caledonia. A strong community depends on more than the city services and infrastructure. We need good schools, businesses, medical accessibility, recreation for all ages and much more to maintain our quality of life.
#6- I truly enjoy living in Caledonia. Having raised our family in Caledonia and being a part of the community I feel a responsibility to help keep Caledonia a place that is a city for all seasons and a city for all citizens. I want to help Caledonia move forward with a strong future. I am proud to be from the WILD TURKEY CAPITAL OF MINNESOTA.

Four year council seats

Peggy Perry, 43, has lived in Caledonia since 2001. Bachelor of Arts, University of Wisconsin, LaCrosse 1987. Worked for Abbott Laboratories 1987-1997.  Currently operate small business from home. Formerly a member of Caledonia Rotary and Immanuel Lutheran Church Council, Immanuel Lutheran Congregational President. Current  member of ISD #299 Board of Directors, Volunteer in Caledonia Public Schools and Caledonia Youth Soccer coach.  Appointed to Caledonia City Council, Feb. 2008.
#1- I feel that an 82,000 square foot building in the proposed downtown site is too much building in not enough space. However, my feelings on the size and location of the proposed CJC are pertinent only as a taxpaying citizen of Houston County, not as a member of the Caledonia City Council. It is the task of the county board to present a plan for the size and location of the CJC to the taxpayers.  My role as a member of the Caledonia City Council is to uphold zoning ordinances which are in place to protect property owners’ rights.
#2- In January there will be at least two new county commissioners and two new city council members.  My hope is that everyone on both boards will be willing to work together more effectively.
#3- The issues on purchasing new equipment in regards to the fire department boils down to a communication error on both sides.  There were several productive meetings held and the problem hopefully has been solved.  The city council will continue to strive to be clear on purchasing procedure.
#4- One of the weaknesses for the City of Caledonia, as far as zoning, was that there was no buffer between residential districts and ag/industrial property.  The 150- foot setback provides that buffer and protects all property owners’ interests. Variances can, and have been granted, when the proposed use is deemed compatible for all land owners effected.
#5- It appears that any new industrial growth for the City of Caledonia will most likely be in the southwest quadrant.  The city needs to develop a long-range plan to provide utility services to  potential businesses wishing to relocate or expand in Caledonia.  As a member of the city council, I would push to develop a capital plan to address those needs.
#6- I was appointed to the Caledonia City Council in Feb. 2008 and have not only enjoyed the experience, but learned a lot about city government.  I believe I have some new ideas that would serve the city well in planning for future growth and economic development.  I believe that I can be an asset in helping to stabilize the city/county relationship.

Bob Standish, 77, graduated from Pipestone High School. Have lived in Caledonia 47 years, worked 32 years at Northwest Bell, 16 years manager Caledonia, Preston and Spring Valley. Served eight years with U.S. Marines. Served 10 years on hospital board, 10 years on school board, American Legion Commander, 55 years American Legion member, auxiliary chief of police, rifle youth training instructor, Lions Club member.
#1- I believe that the building should be a jail only. Cost would probably be half of what a jail with other offices would be.
#2- The rift is not really a rift, it is a disagreement that could be fixed with some common sense.
#3- The situation has been taken care of with an agreeable solution.
#4- I think it is better than what was in place.
#5- I think the most important part is to help existing businesses in any way we can to improve and enlarge their business.
#6- After four years of serving on the Council, I would like the opportunity to watch our city and its people grow and prosper.

Gary Klug, 48, life-long resident of Caledonia. Associate’s degree in finance, and a bachelor’s degree in management. Life-long member of St. Mary’s Church. Volunteer for Caledonia Green and a current member of the city council.
#1- No one argues about the need for a new county jail; the size and location are the issues. The current jail is approximately 7,308 square feet. The proposed CJC is approximately 82,000 square feet. 11 times bigger then the current jail. The current plan is to squeeze this building into a residential neighborhood without using any of the current jail campus. This would materially alter the surrounding neighborhood and the ability to enjoy one’s property.
The current court house is approximately 37,000 square feet. I think a jail 25,000 to 35,000 square feet would fit onto the current jail campus. When they built the new addition on to the court house it was structurally built so that another floor could be added. This would have solved the space issues without taking property off our city tax roles.
#2- I have had discussions with Commissioner Tom Bjerke about various issues. I have met and spoken with Commissioner Larry Connery. I believe we would work together well.
#3- There was a lack of communication between the fire department and the city. The procedures have been explained. We have the best-equipped department in the county. The rural fire district is a big part of our department and we will work with them to keep our department a success.
#4- A reoccurring complaint has been by people that live close to the industrial park. They have recommended to me that in the future there should be zoning laws to address these issues. When the city did a new comprehensive plan these issues were addressed. The 150-foot setback ordinance was a result of the complaints and of it being in the comprehensive plan. It gives the council discretion in deciding what kinds of entities can be close to residential-where a quiet office or retail shop would be allowed, a rendering plant or metal stamping facility would not be granted a variance.
#5- We have the EDA (economic development authority) as part of our town. They promote Caledonia. If a business wanted to locate in Caledonia there are loans and other provisions that could be made.
#6- I have been on the city council for four years now, and like with any new job mistakes have been made. I feel I have learned from these mistakes and have gained a lot of knowledge into the working of city government. In the coming year a few key people with the city will be retiring and I think we will need all of the experience we have.  In the past four years, I have enjoyed serving all of the people of Caledonia and I hope you will give me the chance to continue serving you.

Tom Murphy, 62; B.A. Economics, University of Iowa; U.S. Army veteran; Caledonia resident since 1972; licensed insurance agent in Minnesota and Iowa; part-time insurance and financial services; occasional reporter; A.B.L.E. board president and director; ABC director; member and two-time past president of Rotary; Lions member; American Legion member; Houston County Wild Turkey Federation member (HoCoWTF) and past volunteer editor of MnWTF “Gobbler Gossip”; past president of Caledonia Charities-United Way; past president Caledonia Health Care Center and Caledonia Clinic; past president, secretary, and member Caledonia Chamber of Commerce; co-chair, Vote Yes school bond issue; ISD No. 299 Foundation, past secretary; Caledonia Founder’s Days, past officer; former publisher, The Argus; past president and director, Graphics, Inc., Calmar, Iowa.
#1-  Whatever my feelings are on each of the issues, they are dependent on the feelings of the other four council members. I will work to arrive at a consensus and strive to achieve common goals. Now that it appears the county will move some of its services to a different site, I would support location of a smaller CJC at the current location.
#2- Sitting down and talking about things is the only way to resolve differences. Finding common ground, building trust and constant communication will bring a solution.
#3-  It is right for the city council to have guidelines on how money is spent. Discussion of spending plans of all departments on a regular basis should ease any differences. I would be part of a committee participating in identifying and prioritizing capital purchases in departments and then, for the city. I view one, three and five-year goals the same way. All capital spending needs to first take into account the city’s current debt levels.
#4- The city council recently passed a comprehensive plan on zoning. It was a good step. I would support a return of a policy of having three readings of a proposed change in zoning, as was done at one time. The first reading and discussion was extensive and the second and third readings were mentioned with a vote taken after the third reading. Publication of the proposed change should be done. This process would allow for timely discussion with residents and time for the council to deliberate its actions.
#5- Most of our development in Caledonia has come from local businesses. Surveys of local business and their interests in expanding are conducted. I would be part of the follow up personal visits. In many of Caledonia’s projects TIF money has been used. We need to be practical about its use and acknowledge that it is a common ingredient in development.
#6-  I wish to begin with praising the service of the current mayor and city council. I believe each of them genuinely has the interest of the community at heart. I believe my career has been one of service. I am grateful to Caledonia and I want to return a measure of that gratitude and continue my life’s work.

Norm Snodgrass, lived in Caledonia for 30 years; graduate from Caledonia High School; served four  years in the USAF, three tours of duty in the Persian Gulf. Carpenter in the area for 10 years. Helped build the new concession stand at the high school by donating and installing the roof. Organized the SE Minn. Flood Relief Fund which gathered $30,000  in flood relief funds.
#1- The sheer size of this project is way out of control, including its price tag. In the current economic climate we face, it would be almost criminal to force the taxpayers of this county to shoulder such a burden now or in the near future. I think the county is on to something buying an existing building, though not thrilled with its location; it’s a compromise. If absolutely forced by the state to update our current situation, I think it would be much smarter and cheaper to put up a small building in the current courthouse square to house the remaining offices in the current courthouse, then turn that building into our new CJC.
#2- Put simply, compromise. I think instead of beating each other over the head, the city needs to help the county come up with new solutions like the one I just mentioned. I believe after the dust settles in this election you’ll see the rift close fairly quickly.
#3- I believe this matter has been resolved, though in addition I believe our chiefs including the police chief, need to be left alone to run their departments although a large purchase like a tanker or squad car should be discussed with the council, day to day purchases should be left to our chiefs.
#4- I would immediately work to repeal it, this ordinance made a disturbing amount of land in Caledonia worthless.
#5- I would start with downtown businesses, I think they are crucial to our economy. Things as simple as better parking solutions or more signage on Hwy 44. I know the state says no, but I think if a person works hard and gets creative it can be done. I also think we need to start putting plans together for a new industrial park, we really dropped the ball losing La X Fabricating to Spring Grove.
#6- I don’t believe all of our citizens and businesses are being fully represented. We need someone who won’t just roll over to the majority, but who can also work closely with people to get things done.

Doug Rusert, 67, graduate of Caledonia High School; attended Minneapolis Business College; life long resident of Caledonia; owned and operated Rusert’s IGA in Caledonia and currently a district representative for Thrivent Financial. Past president of Caledonia Lions and Caledonia Chamber. Has held an office on St. John’s Lutheran Church Board. 
#1- I think it is important to sit down with the Criminal Justice Center Committee and discuss exactly where we are with the development.  Nothing seems to be going forward. I think there is a way to facilitate the moving forward of the CJC considering different opinions and sizes of the building. I am in favor of keeping the location downtown because of the property that already has been purchased by the Houston County Board of Commissioners.
#2-  I would do my best in using my ability of dealing with people to help reach a resolution.  I have dealt with customers and clients all of my adult life and have an even tempered, common sense and honest approach to problem solving.
#3-  I would listen to both sides and try to reach a reasonable and intelligent solution for the betterment of the community.  Every problem can be solved, particularly when it affects the safety of our community.
#4-  I feel the setback is too large and that it was decided with opinions that do not benefit the citizens of our community.
#5-  I would support the Economic Development Authority and their continued work on developing a brochure and updating the website that encourages outside businesses to come to Caledonia and consider our community as a site for their company. Perhaps a city committee needs to visit other communities that are looking for locations to develop and promote their businesses, if this is not being done at this time.
#6- I want to see the city of Caledonia move forward in many ways siting your above questions and many more.  I want to see this done by the city council in a positive way and not in one of negativity.  The city council needs to be more progressive and positive in approaching their agenda, again for the betterment of our community. I am willing to give time and energy to serving on the city council.

Verne Goetzinger, 65, lived in Caledonia for 25 years, was a native from Freeburg area; a member of Caledonia Lions and served as past president and as secretary; member of  American Legion and am the Sergeant of Arms and work as the bingo crew chief.  Member of the Caledonia United Methodist Church and serve as chairman on the Finance Committee and is the grounds keeper.
#1- The location of the CJC center I feel should be next to the court house, but down sized.
#2- When complications come before us I will help to resolve the issues that are given to us. 
#3- When the fire department and the council would come together on purchasing new equipment, we would need to follow the procedures that the city has. We know that in life there are always issues that will come before one, but today we need to look at the cost as this can be an issue.
#4- I agree with the 150 foot setback requirement the city approved in March. 
#5- To help create new jobs I will work to develop commercial and industrial growth in our city.
#6- If I were to be a member of the city council I will try to make a difference.



Joe Rud, 49, High School GED, lifelong resident of Caledonia.
#1- CJC should be revisited from the beginning it is actually two different issues the jail and Houston County administrative building.  A lot of things have changed from the beginning. With the population of roughly 20,000 people in Houston County, one question needs to be asked, are we spending more money than we can afford?
#2-    There will be new county board members and city council members which will make for a new start.  I believe that both former county commissioners and city council members acted inappropriately and should be ashamed of their actions.  If they actually believed in what they were doing and that it was right for the county they would have presented things more openly like purchasing property and changing zoning ordinances at the last minute to the citizens of Houston County before they did it.
#3- We have the best VOLUNTEER fire department that one could ever ask for. I haven’t heard of one thing that the fire department has asked for that is not needed.  When it comes to purchasing equipment I understand the firemen as a team discuss what they need not one man making decisions.  They make many donations to the City of Caledonia and everything I’ve heard they ask for has been justified.
#4- The present 150 foot setback seems to be extreme.
#5- Land and zoning issues need to be resolved to be able to accept new commercial and industrial growth. Along with that we ought to take care of existing businesses so they may develop, expand and grow. Cities that have a strong environment of development and growth with their current existing businesses will find outside commercial and industrial businesses very interested in starting operations there.
#6-    The need for change with both city and county is necessary.  Over the next few years will require very wise spending.  We will probably see less state and federal funds.  We must keep our taxes at a reasonable rate for both residential and business.  I feel that over the next four years the city council members and county commissioners are going to have a full plate.

Beverly (Bev) J. Rud, 66, graduate of Caledonia High School; resident of Eitzen until 1962 and have lived in Caledonia since. Owned  Sonny and Bev’s for 13 years. Started the first annual Christmas Dinner for people that didn’t have anywhere to go, it is still going today.
#1-  I do feel we need a new jail. The jail we have now is to small and half the time we are over crowded and need to transport prisoners to other counties. It does not house both men and women and I think it could possibly create more jobs for the people in the area.
  #2- I do believe that the issue between the county and city needs to be solved soon, with both sides in agreement.
 #3- If the fire department is in need of new equipment I feel there should be a way of working with them, have a fund raiser of some sort besides the fireman’s dance.
 #4- I don’t know a lot about the 150-foot setback requirements but I have heard there are a lot of people that are not happy about it.
 #5- We do need more businesses in the downtown to create more jobs for the people, and need some new industries to town.
  #6- I feel it would be a challenge an am looking forward to try to help the community to make it a better place to live. We need to bring more activity to the town and promote the town with more things like Music in the Park and the Winter Fest to make our town more successful.

Two year council term

Robert Lemke, 56, graduate of Caledonia High School;  lifelong resident of Caledonia;  co-owner of Caledonia Oil Company; member of Caledonia     Fire Department (25 years) and Caledonia Ambulance (16 years).
#1- The proposed Houston County Criminal Justice Center (CJC) should be built with the future in mind, so that 10 to 15 years down the road it does not have to be added onto.  The court house square is the best location for the CJC, which will also strengthen economic well being for the entire downtown businesses.
#2- I would work to provide a more open dialogue as to what is expected from the city, as well as what is expected from the county board.  I would also work to avoid any unnecessary legal actions, ultimately saving the county and city tax payers money.
#3- Once individual budgets are set, each department head should be responsible for how their individual budget is used.
#4- I was not in favor of the increased setbacks. Any business or industry considering Caledonia for a location would have to deal with variances.
#5- I would work towards maintaining our downtown businesses as well as encouraging new business growth downtown and in the industrial parks.
#6- I believe I can help the city move forward in industrial development and growth within the downtown business development.  I would also listen to the concerns of the citizens of Caledonia and help to build a strong community.


Faith Bergin, 49, Bachelors Degree in organizational management and psychology; lived in Caledonia for 21 years; secretary at St. Mary’s School for 16 years.
#1- I am not opposed to the location of the CJC as I am of the proposed size of it. The size proposed presents a number of concerns for me. The numbers just don’t add up to constitute a facility of that size to serve Houston County.  Second, if a facility of that size was to be constructed on the proposed site, what would be the effect on the neighboring homes, neighborhoods and taxpayers?  If a home-owner wanted to put an addition on their home, they would have to follow a certain protocol as to where, how big, and if they neighborhood would support their idea for their addition.  I don’t feel that guideline was followed with the proposed CJC and I feel the neighborhood as well as the community was within its rights to raise an objection to the proposed facility. 
#2- I would look for the root cause of the ‘rift’ and proceed from there.  If the cause is one of miscommunication than both sides need to agree upon an open format to discuss their objectives, then they need to present a willingness to work together.  If there is more than a miscommunication that is the cause, then that is what needs to be address and then a workable solution needs to be mapped out from there.
#3- For a city to run efficiently and effectively there needs to be a certain amount of operating procedures in place. Whenever an oversight of those procedures occur there is bound to be a certain amount of unsettledness that needs to be cleared up and a renewed clarification of the basic operating procedures needs to be re-established.
#4- I was in agreement with the city council of the 150-foot setback requirement when a commercial property abuts a residential district. The community’s first priority is to the residents and to provide certain safe-guards to all homeowners. I was also of the understanding that each request for a variance would be reviewed and there could be a compromise of the 150-foot setback depending on the nature of the business and it possible effects on the neighboring properties.
#5- If you look at the businesses that are in the Caledonia area, they are owned and operated by people who have been raised in or around this area.  This is a great testimony to underlying strength that Caledonia possesses. I think this will continue on, but to make it grow, other objectives need to be presented.  New commercial and industrial growth is challenging for any community but I feel if we capitalize on our assets such as low taxes, a business-friendly environment, and a strong family-oriented community we will be able to accomplish new growth and development.
#6- The reason that I chose to run for city council was one that I have had for many years.  I have always been civic-minded and enjoy the policies and procedures of a governing office.  I feel I would have a lot to offer the community of Caledonia and I believe that Caledonia’s future can be one of prosperity and growth.
We did not receive a reply from Rick Nelson.

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