KROX is continuing our 2026 Election coverage with an introduction to the two candidates for the Crookston City Council in the At-Large seat.
The candidates running for Crookston City Council At-Large are incumbent Wendy Ault and her opponent, Patty Dillabough. We asked each candidate a series of questions.
Tell us about your family.
Ault: “My name is Wendy Ault. My husband is Derek Alt, and my children are Derek Urness, Avery Urness, Reace Ault, and Maggie Ault.”
Dillabough: “Hi, my name is Patty Dillabough. My husband’s name is Duane Dillabough. We have six children: John, Jamie, Shannon, Katie, Alex, and Michael.”
Why did you file to run for City Council?
Ault: “Because Crookston means a whole lot to me, and I have more work to do. We’ve started all of these projects, and I want to make sure I can stick around to see them through.”
Dillabough: “I’ve been in Crookston all my life and absolutely adore Crookston, and I just really wanted to put something forward that I could help with. I’m 100% invested in Crookston, and I would like to see it grow and prosper very well.”
What experiences have you had that will help you if elected?
Ault: “I’ve been in human resources for 17 years now, and that gives me a really level-headed, rational, common-sense approach to most situations. So I’m able to connect with all the other council members, with our city administrator, with people in the public, just to build those relationships and be able to bring some kind of rational, thoughtful decision making to the team.”
Dillabough: “I was the director of the senior center in Crookston for 20-some years. I have served on several boards: the Riverview Auxiliary Board and worked on the Night to Unite Board. And I actually love doing things like that. So, with all being on the school board, they send you to school quite often. So I’ve learned a lot of leadership. I’ve learned conflict resolution. I’ve learned all kinds of things that would apply to this kind of job. So I’m hoping to put that education into helping Crookston.”
Is there anything else that you want the voters to know about you?
Ault: “I’m open to emails, phone calls, text messages, Facebook messages. If you need anything, please reach out. I’m happy to help or answer any questions that you have.”
Dillabough: “Just that I’d really appreciate your vote for me for city councilman at large. Thank you.”
