By Rich Larson
As 2026 is an election year, the Northfield-Cannon Falls League of Women Voters will host a series of candidate forums this week, giving residents an opportunity to hear directly from those seeking seats on the Northfield City Council.
The forums, which are sponsored in-part by KYMN Radio, will be held this Thursday, June 25, and will feature candidates running in the city’s Ward 4 and At-Large races. The events are designed to help voters learn more about the candidates’ priorities and positions ahead of the primary election in August, and the November municipal election.
The evening will begin with the Ward 4 forum at 6pm featuring candidates Thor Keilen, Katy Vondrasek, and Adam Wale, followed by the At-Large forum at 7pm with James Clinton, Peder Jothen and Dave “Superdave” Jutunen. Each forum will be moderated by members of the League of Women Voters and will include questions submitted by community members.
League organizers said the forums are intended to provide voters with unbiased information and encourage civic engagement. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization that does not endorse candidates or political parties but works to promote informed and active participation in government.
Residents attending the forums will have an opportunity to hear candidates discuss a variety of issues facing the city, including growth and development, public safety, housing, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.
The candidate forums have long been a staple of local election seasons in Northfield and are often among the first opportunities for voters to compare candidates side-by-side. Organizers say the events are especially valuable in municipal elections, where local decisions can have a direct impact on residents’ daily lives.
The forums will be open to the public and will also be recorded for those unable to attend in person. Questions for candidates will be collected and reviewed by League volunteers to ensure fairness and to avoid duplication.
League representatives encourage all Northfield residents to participate, either by attending the forums, watching the recordings, or submitting questions in advance. They say informed voters are essential to a strong community and hope the forums will help residents make educated decisions when they cast their ballots this fall.
Additional information about the candidate forums is available through the Northfield-Cannon Falls League of Women Voters.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net.
