The candidates for the Crookston City Council Ward 5 seat are incumbent Joe Kresl and opponents Casey Anderson and Marc Palmer. We asked each candidate to introduce themselves and why they are running.
Q: Would you please tell us about yourself?
Joe Kresl: Most people around town know who I am. I’ve lived here all my life. I’m married to Jaime Kresl and have four kids. And I work at UMC for 25 years. I’m all for what’s best for Crookston.
Casey Anderson: I’m Casey Anderson. I’ve lived in Crookston almost my whole life. I live in Ward 5. I have an adopted son and a rescue dog.
Marc Palmer: I was born and raised in Crookston all my life. I’m a union plaster. I worked for the Grand Theatre for 33 years off and on. I learned a lot of stuff there. That’s basically it.
Q: Why are you running?
Kresl: I always wanted to be involved in city government to try to be a voice. I’ve ran a few other times – At-Large and Ward 5. I think it takes a lot for somebody to want to set up. I’m willing to do that and try to do the best for the ward and City of Crookston.
Anderson: First and foremost, I am a social worker. I’m getting my master’s in social work in December. Giving back to the community and enacting change is one thing that is in my Code of Ethics as a social worker. I felt that this was a way I could do that effectively.
Palmer: I don’t like some of the things the city is doing and the only way you can change it is if you run.
Q: Anything you would like to add?
Kresl: Just get out and vote. That’s how you get your voice heard. My door is always open if I get elected. Feel free to talk to me any time you have problems or concerns, and I will dress them immediately. Thank you.
Anderson: I really believe there is potential and room for growth in the City of Crookston. I think if we can make Crookston feel like home to people who are driving through, visiting, or people who live here. If it feels like home to them, they’ll keep coming back and they’ll invest in our community. I think that’s the best thing we can do.
Palmer: That’s basically it. I’d just like the city to start working for the residents more.
