Meet The Candidates 2024

Gregory Davids

Candidate for State Representative 26B

1. Tell us about yourself.

I’ve lived in Fillmore County nearly my entire life. I’m a financial planner and my wife Bonnie and I own the family farm. We also have three grown daughters. As your state representative, I’ve fought tirelessly to protect conservative values in southeastern Minnesota. I’ve served as the chairman or Republican Lead on the Minnesota House Taxes Committee numerous times, and if Republicans take control of the House this cycle, I’m in line to chair the committee again. If that happens, a tax relief bill that benefits low- and middle class Minnesotans will be approved in the Minnesota House.

2. Why are you running for office?

Because I know how to get things done in St. Paul and have the values that matches most residents in our area. We’ve seen what has happened when the radical left is allowed to lead Minnesota. Allowing abortion until birth. Chipping away at your 2nd Amendment rights. Giving illegal immigrants free health care, college tuition and driver’s licenses. Blowing a $20 billion budget surplus, then raising taxes by another $10 billion.

We need balance in state government to stop the Democrats’ extreme agenda. That only happens if we elect more Republicans to the Minnesota House.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

Allowing Minnesotans to keep more of what they earn. Under the Biden/Harris/Walz economy, prices have skyrocketed on everything. Not long ago, a Walmart shopper reordered the same groceries from a list he

submitted two years ago. He found the total increased from $126 to $414.39, a nearly 400% increase. It’s nothing to spend $100 at the store anymore, and there’s hardly anything in your cart. I’ve championed tax relief bills throughout my House tenure, and residents should know they can count on me to make tax relief for low- and middle-income Minnesotans my Number 1 priority.

Allie Wolf

Candidate for State Representative 26B

1. Tell us about yourself.

My husband and I grew up in Spring Valley, and after my enlistment as a linguist in the Marine Corps, we felt our roots pulling us back. Since moving back to the area I’ve used the G.I. Bill to earn my Bachelor’s in Computer Science, I waited tables and worked retail while going to school and taking care of our two kids, and during the pandemic I became a stay-at-home mom to homeschool our kids through the pandemic. My story is familiar to many working class families, and I want to use that experience to represent Southeast Minnesota.

2. Why are you running for office?

When I talk to residents, their biggest concerns are the economy. The cost of housing and healthcare affects Minnesotans of all ages; for families of younger children, the cost and availability of child care is an additional burden. Many folks in rural areas still lack access to affordable high-speed Internet—a barrier to accessing many high-paying jobs, and for kids trying to do schoolwork in an age of online learning. I’m running for office because as a mom, I want my kids to see a future for themselves in Southeast Minnesota; that means investing in families and our communities.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

As I said, for many families, the biggest financial burden they have is the cost of child care. Here in Minnesota the average cost is twice that of rent, and waitlists for an infant spot are often up to 18 months long or more. It is not unusual for one parent – often moms – to drop out of the workforce in their prime earning years because of this child care crisis. I intend to make fixing the child care crisis a top priority in the legislature not just for families, but for the overall health of Minnesota’s economy.

FILLMORE COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 3

Larry Hindt

Candidate for Fillmore County District 3 Commissioner

1. Tell us about yourself.

My name is Larry Hindt. My wife Joy and I have been residents of Fillmore County for 48 years, where we raised four children: Chad (Andrea), Holly (Dan), Crystal (John), and Charity (Tim). I was employed by Community Memorial Hospital as a radiologic technologist until it closed. After that I was employed by Olmsted Medical Center in Radiology and Lab, where I worked as the branch clinic radiology coordinator for five southern branch clinics, until my retirement in 2020. I also have experience in small business ownership and management, along with experience in farming and residential property management and construction.

2. Why are you running for office?

I’m running for the office of county commissioner in order to represent the residents of District 3. I intend to be a voice for my constituents and assist them with any issues or concerns they may have and answer any questions they may have regarding the operations of the County. I feel my varied experience is an asset to the position.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

I hope to continue to be a responsible overseer of the county’s budget and finance. I intend to listen to the concerns of the residents and see what, if anything, we can do as a board to address any issues they may have.  Also, I hope to update, improve and maintain the county’s infrastructure as economically feasible.  I intend to keep an eye on the future concerns of the county. I also intend to make sure our elections continue to be safe and secure in Fillmore County.

Gerald Wolf

Candidate for Fillmore County District 3 Commissioner

1. Tell us about yourself.

I am running for County Commissioner, District 3 (city of Spring Valley, Ostrander, Beaver Twp., Bloomfield Twp., Forestville Twp., and York Twp.). My wife Kris and I were born and raised in SW Minnesota, Adrian, and moved to Spring Valley in ‘97.  We raised four children here.  I work on the Crisis Management technology infrastructure team of a large healthcare organization.  I became involved in politics after the 2020 lockdown and became chairman of the Fillmore County Republicans in 2023.  I have been active in multiple election integrity groups and a member of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association.

2. Why are you running for office?

County government is critical for protecting the rights of citizens.  The trajectory of State and Federal government is going off the rails. The governor overstepped his authority several times in ‘20 and ‘21. The local county and city government is designed to protect individuals and business from insane state and federal powers. We need strong individuals in local government with firm backbones that are willing to protect the rights of local citizens. The recent hurricane disaster in North Carolina shows that the state and federal government is not going to save you when a crisis hits.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

The primary responsibility of the county commissioner is to maintain strong essential services such as law enforcement and vital infrastructure such as roads and bridges. It is important to have a collaborative demeanor to support a robust county government.  Fillmore County must be fiscally responsible while maintaining infrastructure with critical discernment. The county commissioner works for the voters and must ensure that their tax dollars are spent wisely. Please vote for Gerald Wolf for county commissioner to give Spring Valley and surrounding townships and communities a strong voice in the county.

CALEDONIA SCHOOL BOARD

Carol Nelson

Candidate for Caledonia School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I taught in Caledonia for 26 of my 33 years in public schools.  I was the director of Camp Winnebago for seven years when it was a camp for children and adults with developmental disabilities.  I am currently a board member at the Four Seasons Community Center, and have been involved with the District 299 Foundation, “Save our Swimming Pool” campaign, and had active roles when the current Caledonia school facilities were being built.

2. Why are you running for office?

I am running for office because I bring common sense and experience to local issues.  I care deeply about the students and staff at Caledonia Area Public Schools and am proud of the work they do.  It will take creative thinking and an open mind to continue excellent programming as income decreases due to declining student enrollment.  Teachers and school staff need to be recognized and rewarded for the valuable work they do and salaries must be competitive to attract and retain the best. 

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

I hope to work closely with the cities in our district to make sure we are doing as much as we can to attract families to the area.  This includes housing, employment, and a warm welcome to all.  If families are considering open enrollment out of the district or home schooling, we need to be having conversations about why their student(s) are leaving.  We need to continue to develop excellent programming such as the daycare center at the elementary and boast about Caledonia High School being named a National Blue Ribbon School.

Spencer Yohe

Candidate for Caledonia School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I’ve had the privilege to serve the ISD # 299 school district communities of Caledonia area; that includes Caledonia, Brownsville, Eitzen and Freeburg for four terms, being elected in the fall of 2008.

A 1968 graduate of Caledonia High School, and 1972 graduate of Winona State University, I’ve been in public education as a teacher, substitute teacher for 52 years, (32 full time) and 46 years as a coach (24 at high school), and 22 at the collegiate level. It’s been my passion in life! Mentors included Caledonia teacher/coaches included Bob Stark, Larry Thompson and Wordean Welper.

2. Why are you running for office?

I’ve always been committed to student achievement, determined with our school board members to student achievement, determined to build support for our local schools and unwavering in their pursuit for what’s best for students! Serving the community from athletics, etc., and giving substitute teaching scholarships are very Important to me!! The kids are what it’s all about. It’s great to work on their behalf and nice that they are the top priority to all of us on the board! So awesome to put smiles on their faces and make a difference in their lives. I love to give back!

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

To continue to provide the best education for our students with our great administration, teachers, business manager, human resources, paras, coaches, cooks, and students of course. They are some of the best in Minnesota.

We have good board members. We want our vision, mission, core values, goals goals and strategic planning carried out.

Our school board, community and students are so proud of the work the administration, Principal Boler, staff and students played their role in getting Caledonia High School recognized as one of two high schools in the State of Minnesota as a National Blue Ribbon School!

CHATFIELD SCHOOL BOARD

Aric Bauman

Candidate for Chatfield School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in the small farming community of Kiester, Minn. In 2019, my wife Alissa and our two children, Baron (9) and Luke (3), relocated to rural Chatfield. I have dedicated the past 10 years to serving as a healthcare maintenance director, and two years ago, I had the honor of becoming the building maintenance director at the Preston Veterans Home, where I’ve had the privilege of working with veterans. I am a certified EMT and hold a high-level boiler license. I consider myself a building life safety professional, with expertise in a wide array of building systems.

2. Why are you running for office?

I am running for the school board to become more actively involved in our community. I believe the school board plays a vital role in representing our schools and ensuring a high-quality education for our students. The community and parents trust board members to prioritize their children’s safety and education while effectively managing the school’s budget and resources.

Quite frankly, the school board could benefit from a fresh perspective. With my expertise in building maintenance and life safety, I am well-equipped to contribute to the board’s mission and enhance our educational environment.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

As a school board member, my primary goals are to collaborate effectively with my fellow board members to support our students and staff while being accountable to our community and taxpayers. I aspire to bring a positive and proactive leadership style to the board, fostering strong connections with teachers and staff that have not been seen before. I am dedicated to promoting active parent involvement in school board meetings, encouraging them to engage meaningfully in their children’s education. Additionally, I will prioritize complete transparency with teachers, staff, students and parents to build trust and strengthen our school community.

FILLMORE CENTRAL SCHOOL BOARD

Aaron Bishop

Candidate for Fillmore Central School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I grew up just south of Harmony and graduated from Fillmore Central in 2009. After graduating with a geology degree from the University of Hawaii, at Hilo, I returned to Harmony to co-manage the family business. My wife Amy and I are beginning (and learning) farmers, and we live on our farm in Harmony Township. I believe quality education is a foundational pillar of our democratic republic. The inalienable rights to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness are intrinsically linked with the ability to think critically, understanding our history, and being afforded the opportunity to learn how to learn.

2. Why are you running for office?

I seek re-election to further provide our teachers and paraprofessionals the resources and tools required to support the children and young adults of this district. Teaching is a courageous act. Consider some responsibilities as a parent: keep your child safe, engaged, and respectful towards themselves and others. Teachers must do this and much more with entire classes of children. Every. Day. I intend to further support our teachers’ needs as they continue to overcome seemingly overwhelming obstacles. I run for this position because I believe in quality education and wish to continue promoting the teaching environment necessary to achieve it.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

If re-elected, I hope to be accompanied with a “Yes” vote for the referendum. A “Yes” vote means the school board will have the opportunity and responsibility to maintain class sizes, provide practical curriculum, and continue supporting the needs of the teachers and paraprofessionals who are vital in helping students unlock their potential as they become informed citizens of these United States. Contrarily, a “No” vote ensures difficult staffing and curriculum cuts, fewer opportunities for students, and increased pressure on remaining teachers. I hope to return to the policy, facilities, and curriculum committees and join the budget committee next year.

Carrie Mathison

Candidate for Fillmore Central School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I live near Greenleafton, and work with my husband on our family farm.  We have four children, ages 2-12, who all attend FC.  I was the 7-12 Art teacher at Fillmore Central for 12 years, and during my time there I was the EMFC union president for six years.  I have a BA in Art with an endorsement in Education, and MA in Teacher Leadership.  I substitute within FC occasionally, but I also stay busy working on the farm, sewing/alterations, baking, painting, crafting and am active in our church playing piano and singing.  

2. Why are you running for office?

I am passionate about creating quality education and serving students.  Having the role of a former teacher, parent, and community member, gives me a unique perspective I feel is valuable on the school board.  I want to ensure quality opportunities and support, not only for my own children, but for the betterment of all students at FC.  We have quality teachers and staff that I love working with, and I want to continue to support them. 

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

The school board leads the district in their strengths, but also works to improve weaknesses while representing the future of our local communities, each student using their own gifts and talents.  Supporting students from birth in our daycare, all the way through seniors is a priority.  Improving mental health support, the resources for our teachers, giving well rounded classes and opportunities to our students, and working together toward the betterment of our communities are a few of my areas of focus. 

 

 

Brian Michel

Candidate for Fillmore Central School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

My name is Brian Michel. I was born and raised in Harmony Minn. I still live in Harmony with my wife and three children. I currently work as utility superintendent for the city of Harmony. I am involved in the community as a member of the Harmony Fire Department, a member of the Harmony Conservation Club, and as a coach for the Fillmore Central Trap team.

2. Why are you running for office?

I decided to run for Fillmore Central School board because I have three children who attend Fillmore Central and I wanted to be more involved in their education. As a parent, I want to know more about the curriculum and the quality of education Fillmore Central offers. I hope to learn more about the obstacles facing small schools and ultimately, I want to make sure the school remains here for my children and potentially, grandchildren.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

As I stated previously, I want to make sure the school is here for future generations. I also want to make sure Fillmore Central School District is being fiscally responsible with their resources and believe I can use my experience working within budget restraints at the city of Harmony to accomplish this. I know there may be some tough decisions to be made moving forward and I want to make sure we keep the district’s best interest for the future in mind.

Jason Schwarz

Candidate for Fillmore Central School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I grew up on a farm near Fountain that I currently reside on with my wife Mary and daughters Mara, a senior, and Myla, an eighth grader at Fillmore Central. As part of the second graduating class of Fillmore Central in 1995, I attended UWRF and for the past 25 years I have been in a farming partnership with my dad. Mary and I also own our own business- JMS Agronomics, Inc., selling Pioneer corn, soybean and alfalfa seed to farmers in the Preston and Fountain areas.

2. Why are you running for office?

I have passed up on the opportunity to run in the past. Now with my girls in high school, I feel it is a good time to give back and help support the school district and community to grow and graduate the best leaders for the future.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

I do not have a specific agenda. I would like to be a part of and work with fellow board members, administration, and teachers to serve the students of Fillmore Central and continue providing them with a high-quality education while being fiscally responsible to the people and communities within the district.

HOUSTON SCHOOL BOARD

Lisa Schultz

Candidate for Houston School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I have lived in Houston with my husband Tony and our two children since 2006, and I have been very involved within the community over the past 18 years.  I frequently volunteer to bake and donate goodies to local fundraisers. I served for 16 years as an EMT with Houston Ambulance and I worked in Houston Public Schools as the operations manager of the Minnesota Virtual Academy for 12 years. I continue to work in an education-related field, which has provided me with a unique perspective on the benefits of technology and preparing students for learning in the future.

2. Why are you running for office?

I am running for Houston School Board to contribute to the community and support our schools on a path of continuous improvement.  As a former employee of the district, and as parent of Houston graduates, I am passionate about providing a quality educational environment for our teachers, staff, current and future students. I believe that I have the skills and background to be a valuable school board member. I’m not afraid to ask questions and participate in discussions to ensure understanding and promote successful outcomes.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

The most significant issue that I have discussed with other community members recently is the district’s spending. There is a perception that spending is out of control and needs to be managed more conscientiously. As a successful board member, I will make it a priority to understand and maintain the financial health of the district, while sensibly utilizing the public funds spent on behalf of our students. I will also work hard to find effective ways to share information with the community to ensure transparency and accountability around spending data.

KINGSLAND SCHOOL BOARD

Dan  Freeman

Candidate for Kingsland School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Spring Valley and graduated from SVHS.  I went to college and received an undergraduate and master’s degree in business administration.  I am a Certified Public Accountant, Chartered Global Management Accountant, Certified Information Technology Professional and business owner.  In 2024, I ran for a one-year term on the Kingsland School Board, and I am now running for re-election.  My wife and I live on a farm in the area and enjoy being active in the community.   I served on an elected board in the suburban Minneapolis area for ten years before returning to Spring Valley.

2. Why are you running for office?

I believe our schools are an integral part of our community.  When you have healthy schools the rest of our community will grow and progress as well.  Healthy schools have both a strong positive culture and a sound financial underpinning.  I believe with my financial background and experience in public office I can help meet the growing needs of Kingsland Schools.  I had the benefit of a great school education while at Spring Valley and I want to give the kids of Kingsland today the same strong educational support.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

The financial landscape of school funding from the State of Minnesota can be a constant challenge.  The state has placed a significant number of unfunded mandates on the schools.  Being able to understand finances and help find solutions to the complexities of school funding will be one of my primary goals.  I do not want us to sacrifice quality education because of financial pressures.  We are forced to comply with the Minnesota Department Education guidelines, but the quality of education is on us.  I will work hard to meet the quality of education our community deserves.

LANESBORO SCHOOL BOARD

Lucas Bergo

Candidate for Lanesboro School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I grew up around Lanesboro, Minn., and currently live outside of town with my wife and two kids. My children attend Lanesboro Schools, with my oldest in fifth grade and my youngest in second grade. I am an active outdoorsman, who loves taking my kids hunting and fishing. While in college, I was the vice president for Student Senate, while earning my degree in Sales and Business Management. I worked for many years selling and installing insulation, before recently starting my own company. Additionally, I enjoy coaching youth sports, including basketball and football, for my son.

2. Why are you running for office?

I am running for school board because I am passionate about the quality education and small-town values Lanesboro brings for current and future students. I believe it is important that parents and families feel heard and represented in regard to topics and policies within our school system. I feel strong communication across all platforms is fundamental to making sure students, families, teachers and school staff feel a sense of inclusion and representation. As a Lanesboro alum, it is important to me to keep the school’s academic and social/emotional education standards at the highest levels for our students and community.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

If elected, I want to ensure Lanesboro continually creates an environment where students feel safe and supported within the school system, while becoming prepared for the next chapter of their lives. I believe in achieving this through honest conversation, clear communication and setting attainable goals for students and staff. I am ready to have the difficult conversations with the mindset that the overall goal is what is best for the students and their futures. I would like to set goals to ensure each student leaves Lanesboro equipped with the skill set and confidence needed for their future.

Tamara DeGarmo

Candidate for Lanesboro School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

Hi! My name is Tamara DeGarmo. I have been a resident in Lanesboro and have been an active member of the community since 2020. I grew up in central Wisconsin, and had the opportunity to move around, living in Seattle, Chicago, and Minneapolis. I received a BA in working with youth in outdoor education while living in Seattle. I work remotely for a bicycle company located in Bloomington, Minn.  I have a daughter in middle school at Lanesboro schools district.

2. Why are you running for office?

I believe that not only should we have excellent educational opportunities for our kids, but also have an adaptable environment that supports our teachers and school staff, based on the feedback they provide.  Communication, soliciting feedback, and problem solving have been an important part of the work I do in my job, and I want to bring those skills to the Lanesboro school board. I would be honored to support the amazing people who work in our school and will do what I can to help foster open and effective communication.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

Teacher and staff retention is the topic that drove me to start attending school board meetings. If elected, I hope to improve the feedback loop for staff, teachers, parents and community members so that the feedback they offer can be shared and reviewed for actionable improvements. The staff and teachers are critical to the success of our students and I would like to do what I can to support the challenging and important work they do every single day.

Sarah Peterson

Candidate for Lanesboro School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I’ve lived in rural Southeast Minnesota for the majority of my life and am proud to call Lanesboro my home. I have three kids that have graduated from Lanesboro and a daughter currently in high school. I’ve run a photography and design business here that has thrived primarily on referrals for the past 20 years and am also a singer/songwriter. I adore living on a farm in bluff country with my family and can’t imagine living anywhere else. I’m grateful for the support of this community and look forward to being able to give back.

2. Why are you running for office?

Our school needs people to serve and support the district. People who know the past and see a clear and steady vision for the future. I feel like this is a good way that I can give back to a school that I believe in. I’ve learned a lot serving on the school board in the past four years and hope to continue to serve because I think it’s the right thing to do.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

I hope to continue to support the district. Lanesboro is a growing school district and I would be proud to continue to support the strategic plan that is in place and help in ways big and small to make our school stronger and more resilient to any changes that might come its way. I also hope to continue to support teachers, students and the community at large.

RUSHFORD-PETERSON SCHOOL BOARD

Marge O’Laughlin

Candidate for Rushford-Peterson  School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I moved to Minnesota in 1997, and attended St. Mary’s University; I fell in love with this area. My husband Jacob and I decided to make Rushford our permanent home in 2007. I have said for years this was one of the best decisions we ever made. I enjoy being silly with my two daughters and husband on a regular basis. I have been in Human Resources for over 15 years and have learned a lot along the way. I love gardening, arts & crafts and when I am feeling a bit spicy, I enjoy shooting pool.

2. Why are you running for office?

I am running because I am a parent who cares about kids’ education. I want them to graduate R-P Schools and be successful adults that will make an impact in the world. When God put this on my heart to do, I knew this was an opportunity to make a positive change in the neighborhood I call home. I am passionate about having the best education and learning environment that all of our children can thrive in. I love helping others, finding the root cause of problems and solving them without using bandaid solutions.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

I want to help prepare students for success after graduation. I will advocate for job shadowing and career exploration. A typical four-year college experience is great for some, but for those students where this isn’t a fit, I will encourage a successful future in the trades and support efforts in showcasing these career opportunities. My HR experiences will help when working on policies, state laws, budgets and communication. Every child deserves a safe learning environment where they can build confidence and a solid foundation, while using their individual gifts to catapult them into their future.

SPRING GROVE SCHOOL BOARD

Lisa Myhre

Candidate for Spring Grove School Board

1. Tell us about yourself.

I am from Spring Grove, graduating class of 2000. I did spend some time away from SG but my husband, Joe Kessler, and I were drawn back home. Having always loved SG, we wanted our children (Addy, Henry, Lena) to experience small town life and all it has to offer. I worked as an RN at Gundersen’s Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit for years until I recently obtained my MSN and am currently a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for La Crosse County.  You can find me volunteering for 4-H, SG Athletic Boosters, Syttende Mai, or supporting our kids in their numerous activities.

2. Why are you running for office?

I want all the students in Spring Grove district to have opportunities to not only learn curriculum and develop socially, but more importantly, prepare them for life outside of Spring Grove so they can be successful in whatever field of study/employment they choose to pursue. I also want to support our teachers so that they can do what they do best: teach, and help them navigate increasingly restrictive and complex state mandates that impact their ability to do their job. I love this town and I want to be a part of its continued growth by supporting the district.

3. What do you hope to accomplish if you get elected?

I would like to see expanded opportunities for students to earn college credits so that they aren’t saddled with significant financial burden when they enter adulthood. I will support continued expansion of career exploration and work study opportunities. Staff retention is also of concern, and I would like to entice valued teachers to feel well supported and subsequently stay in our community. I will explore opportunities for ways for the school to partner with the city or private citizens and identify creative solutions to address our town’s child care crisis.