The City Council is the legislative branch of the government. Any new laws, tax changes, and appointments must be approved by them. They meet several times a month.
(See map to find what City Council Ward you live in).
Candidate:
- Peter Dahlen
Incumbent George Zuccolotto opted to run for Northfield Mayor this year instead of running for reelection.
Peter Dahlen
Please list any current political offices you hold. (if any)
n/a
Please list any previous political office you’ve held. (if any)
Former member and Chair of the Northfield Charter Commission & Former Member of the Northfield Public Safety Committee
Please list any civic, community, or professional organizations/clubs your a part of. (if any)
n/a
What qualifies for the office you’re running for?
32 years running a small business in Northfield, a lawyer by training, and past board member with several nonprofit organizations in Northfield
What inspired you to run for office? If you are running for reelection why do you want to stay in office?
I am running for the first time and seek to change the council’s position on 1. Property Taxes (the massive and uncalled for increases), 2. Street Improvements (including bike lanes), 3. Ice Arena (should be a true Public-Private partnership), and 4. Water Treatment Plant which was sold to us as a 33 Million dollar project (mainly covered by federal funds assuming a Democratic administration and congress) but then a few months ago, the city announced that it would be a whopping 58 Million dollars.
What is something that you would like to accomplish while in office?
Responsible taxing and spending, plus regular communication with constituents in the 3rd Ward (Town Halls, email and mail correspondence, written – not oral – updates)
What does being a leader mean to you?
Democracy depends on officer-holders listening to the voters and being transparent about the facts (esp. data) and the outcomes. The government belongs to the people, not office-holders.
Frequently voters in Northfield have expressed concerns about the high property taxes. Are you willing to vote for a tax increase? If so what are the criteria you use to justify that increase?
No. The increases of the last 3 years have been more than enough – perhaps even covered current and projected inflationary rates
There are several projects facing Northfield (Ice Area, Water Treatment Plant, etc.), how would you prioritize which projects get funding and support?
I oppose the Ice Arena unless it is a true public-private partnership. The Water Treatment Plant, if proven to be needed at an APPROPRIATE cost, is a true public utility and must come ahead of the Liquor Store, and the plans for the Riverfront and 5th & Washington. Also, Bridge Square needs an inexpensive facelift, not turned into a boondoggle.
How would you work to make sure that residents concerns are heard and addressed?
I will answer all constituent email and letters. I will hold periodic Town Halls and to those interested, send an occasional newsletter for the more involved subjects
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