ONCE HOMELESS, NOW HOUSED

New Pathways homeless program in Cambridge gives family hope.

It happened one day when Lisa and Tom Stoker were making supper. A Chisago County Sheriff's deputy knocked on the door and told them they had five days to vacate their home.
The news caught them completely by surprise.
And it came during the worst week of their lives.
Tom's dad had just died. Both their vehicles broke down. Lisa had lost the diamond in her wedding ring. And now they were losing the house.
"If you would have asked me if I thought I'd be out on the streets I'd tell you 'you're nuts,'" said Tom.
DOWN ON THEIR LUCK
The road leading up to the loss of their home had started in 2002. The Stokers had fallen behind on the mortgage payments on their mobile home in Wyoming. Their lender offered to refinance and tack on those late payments to the end of the loan. They were so glad to find a solution to the problem, neither Tom nor Lisa read the fine print.
It's a mistake they'll never make again.
According to the terms of the refinancing agreement, if the family was ever late again on a payment, the bank could take possession of their home. The legal stipulations regarding proper notice for a foreclosure and the ability of a homeowner to stay there six months during the redemption period before leaving no longer applied.
In 2005, Tom was taken off the job market by a vehicle accident. With two discs out in his neck and back, he wasn't able to return to work as a machinist. However, Lisa's job as a machinist paid the bills.
Two years later, Lisa found herself on the disability list. The rupture of cysts led to a hysterectomy. Not only was she out of work for four months, but her insurance coverage ran out.
The Stokers found themselves two months behind on mortgage payments.
And then came the knock on the door one October afternoon.
They never received a warning, just the news to get out.
STRUGGLING TO FIND A NEW PLACE
To begin with, Tom, Lisa and their two children who were still at home moved down the street to live with another daughter, her husband and two kids. "There were eight of us in a trailer," recalled Tom. It proved to be too many. "We were all starting to get on each other's nerves."
A friend caught wind of their trouble, and offered to sell them a mobile home at Castle Towers in East Bethel. Because it had sat empty, he asked that Tom fix the pipes that had frozen, get the water going, and pay the lot fees. The Stokers could pay him the $4,000 for the trailer itself when they had the money. Their 13-year-old daughter Savannah and 16-year-old daughter Nicole switched schools, and Tom, along with some buddies, made the necessary repairs.
They were there two months when the caretaker came up one day and asked what they were doing there. He requested that the Stokers fill out an application form – something Tom hadn't done in 20 years.
A mistake he made 15 years previously came to light, and they were kicked out of the mobile home park. Tom had purchased a "hot" car and been convicted of a felony.
Desperate, the family wasn't sure what to do next. They couldn't go back to their daughter's place, and didn't have other options. While online one night, Lisa stumbled upon information about New Pathways, a homeless program based in Cambridge.
They decided to drive up and check the place out. Tom admitted that they expected the kind of shelter you'd find in the Twin Cities. "We were all thinking we'd just jump back in the truck and leave," he noted.
Instead, the family felt welcomed by the staff members at New Pathways. They had found a place to stay.
PEOPLE HELP THEM THROUGH THE DARK DAYS
At New Pathways, families sleep at night in various churches. There are 13 church and a group of people in the program, which host the families one week. They provide sleeping arrangements and an evening meal. Depending on the size of the church, families may stay in a private room; other times, curtains separate them from each other.
The program can accommodate 24 family members at one time. (A family is defined as an adult with children.)
It took awhile for the Stokers to get used to shuffling between churches every week. And it was hard living out of suitcases and duffle bags.
At first, they admitted they were a bit nervous about being in a church, and paid attention to minding their Ps and Qs. But they soon relaxed. The volunteers at each church were open and friendly.
Looking back, Tom especially points to those volunteers as being the highlight of the experience. "We met great people every night," he said. "Everyone was trying to help in one way or another." Program participants and the volunteers would play cards and board games. They'd work on puzzles. They'd talk about life.
One night at Long Lake Lutheran, they sat up and played cribbage all night long.
The food was delicious – although there was one stretch where they ate pizza four nights in a row. The rest of the time, the meals were so good, Tom would head back to the kitchen and beg for recipes. He put on 20 pounds.
Leaving each church at the end of the week became difficult.
LIFE AT THE SHELTER
After nights spent in the church, Tom and Lisa would drop their daughters off at school. Then they'd head to the New Pathways day center in downtown Cambridge. The day center is stocked with information on jobs and housing vacancies.
It was there they'd take showers, signing up for specific time slots. They were also responsible for chores to keep the place clean and picked up.
Tom and Lisa focused on finding a place to live. Again, Tom's felony kept cropping up. Over a three-month period, the Stokers sent out 300 housing applications. Each was denied.
When they felt discouraged, the couple would head into the office of a New Pathways staff person, typically Mary Westlund's. When they walked out, their spirits were always lighter.
"They don't belittle you. They make you feel right at home," said Tom.
"I love that place," added Savannah.
The couple worked on completing the one-week-long Rentwise program. They learned about dealing with management and caretakers, how to maintain a property, and to always read the fine print. Their certificate of completion was included with their rental applications.
Tom also worked to expunge his criminal record, to no avail.
Families may participate in the New Pathways program for three months. As the end of their stay ticked closer, the Stokers began asking themselves if they'd have to divorce so that Lisa and the girls could find housing without the blemish of Tom's record.
The staff at New Pathways began using all their connections to find a place for the Stokers.
Finally, the manager of an apartment complex in Sandstone was swayed by a letter Mary wrote. She offered them a place with reduced rent.
"We were so excited," noted Lisa.
"We shot up there. I was in a huge hurry to get us regrouped, to get our family back together again," noted Tom.
Once there, they realized all they had with them were duffle bags full of clothes. They had no sheets. No beds. No dishes. No towels.
They used the tax refund they had received to pay three months worth of rent and their damage deposit. And then they headed to the Hinckley casino for a hot bath and to plan their next step.
The girls hit the arcade, and Tom and Lisa decided they could finally splurge a little. They each took $100 to try their luck at the slot machines. Unbelievably, it seemed their luck had finally changed.
They left $1,800 richer. It was enough to buy a kitchen table, chairs and a few necessities so they could move into their new home.
BACK HOME, AT LAST
Seven months later, the Stokers are still getting settled. They moved from the first apartment to a ground-floor one which is easier for Tom to access. Some of the bigger furniture items, such as their entertainment center, which they kept, is still in storage because it's been difficult to gather a group to help them move it in.
Savannah and Nicole are still making friends at their fourth school in one year.
Lisa got a job at the Family Dollar store in Sandstone, and although she missed a month of work due to complications from her diabetes, she has recently been promoted to manager. Tom is looking for a job that doesn't require repetitive work because of his spinal injuries.
Lisa and Tom both miss the woodworking shop they had in Wyoming. It's hard to visit their daughter and see their old home just down the street.
What they all miss the most is the community they had in Wyoming, their family and friends. Tom no longer has visitors dropping by their place for a cup of coffee and a chat. They're an hour drive from either Cambridge or Wyoming. There's not a whole lot to do in Sandstone, they noted.
"That's something that hit us when we moved up here. Boy, did we lose a big circle of security," said Tom. "Up here, its just us."
But for now, being together in their own home is enough.

PROGRAMS FOR THE HOMELESS
About New Pathways and the Interfaith Hospitality Network:

• Since its inception in 2000, 301 families have been helped. In 2007, 34 families were assisted by New Pathways, including the Stokers.

• How it works: Families spend their evenings at area churches in one-week increments. Volunteers also spend the night at the churches and provide an evening meal. During the day, participants head to a day center in Cambridge. There they have meals, do laundry, shower, train, and search for jobs and housing.

• There are two sites. The IHN site in Cambridge serves Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs and Pine Counties. The site in Brainerd serves Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Todd and Wadena Counties.

• The local churches involved include: Cambridge Lutheran, Elim Baptist, Faith Lutheran, First Baptist, Grace Bible Fellowship, Long Lake Lutheran, New Hope Community, North Isanti Baptist, Oxlip Evangelical Free, Sts. Peter and Paul, Stanchfield Baptist, Trinity Lutheran and Cambridge United Methodist.


FOR MORE INFORMATION
CALL 763-691-0121
BROWSE www.newpathwaysmn.com
EMAIL infonpi@newpathwaysmn.com

TO A POINT: No, the depot task force hasn't been a decision yet

What's the passenger rail depot task force up to these days?
Apparently, there are a few rumors floating around. The most prevalent seems to be that the decision has already been made about where to locate the depot. As a member of the task force, I can assure you that's not the case. We have not determined that the City Center is the best possible location – contrary to what you might be hearing around the tables at Herman's Bakery.
What group members are doing is evaluating the pros and cons of five different sites. These sites are areas with enough space for a building, parking lot and future expansion, as well as land for possible development of shops and apartments. Being organized by the Cambridge City Council, this group is focusing on sites within the city of Cambridge. From the south to north, possible areas include Westrom's Corner, the former Hayford Ford property, the area near First Baptist Church (where the depot was up until the 1980s), the City Center, and the area on the north side of town near the Great River Energy peaking plant.
The task force is using a long list of criteria to evaluate these sites. They're focusing what will be nearby to offer passengers getting off these trains. Amenities at either the First Baptist or City Center sites are easy: Northern Lights Express (NLX) riders will have all of downtown within a few-blocks walk. Task force members also want to make sure that folks can get to other main attractions, such as the medical center, community college and shops on the east side of town. While it's easiest if riders can get there with their own two feet, we also see the Heartland Express city bus being extraordinarily useful. Thus, task force members are keeping in mind that the main hub of the local bus line (which connects Isanti and Chisago counties) is also located downtown at Buchanan and Second Avenue Southeast. Another important item of note is that the original report that came out advocating Cambridge as one of the sites for a passenger rail depot stressed that the depot be located downtown.
The possibility for development near the depot is huge. Riders will want shops; others will want to live nearby so they can avoid driving their cars to work altogether. Thus, any potential depot location needs to be in a spot that can accommodate future growth by willing landowners. By that criteria alone, the large open space on the north side of town looks best – but then you're isolating this one use from what is already here, and you're contributing to urban sprawl. Is that in the best interest of the city in the long run?
Traffic is also on the forefront of every discussion about the potential depot location. Every single person on the depot task force knows how bad congestion is along Highway 95. In fact, a large number of them also served on the Highway 95 Task Force last year; while on that task force they studied possible traffic solutions and then recommended that the city pursue widening Highway 95. The depot task force knows that there were other options the original group threw out because they were too expensive, such as constructing either an overpass or underpass at Highway 95 and the railroad tracks. But if Cambridge could obtain federal funding for such an option as part of the depot project, well, as task force member Susan Morris put it, it could be the ticket to solving a lot of the Highway 95 issues.
Just how people will get to the depot and how they will get out of the depot is critical. A potential depot need to be situated along major roads, and several major roads, not just one. We don't want to see traffic funneled to one artery – or we'll have the same problem we do now along Highway 95. To understand the impact, task force members are using their common sense. In addition, a feasibility study will be done in the future to study the effect of a couple hundred more cars a day in the city.
The task force has a lot of work left to do. There are many unanswered questions at this point, answers that need to come from the broader Passenger Rail Alliance. How fast will trains be coming through town? Will there be a dual track or a siding? Will we get the funding for an underpass? Will there be a Northstar commuter rail line coming in the near future, as well?
These questions won't be answered tomorrow. Nor will the passenger rail depot task force be ready next week with a recommendation. No, it will take months. Once things have been flushed out at a committee level, the broader public will be invited to come and have their say. Until then, feel free to share your opinions with task force members (Susan Morris, George Larson, Bob Voss, Pat Johns, Nicki Klanderud, Jon Ward, Bob Guetschoff, Greg Carlson, Kim Erickson, Mark Anderson, Jackie Forner, Marlys Palmer, Dave Schornstein and Tesha Christensen). Call city hall (763-689-3211) and speak to Dave Carlberg, the city's development director.
This will be a great thing for the area; there's no doubt about that. It will not only benefit Cambridge itself, but cities all around. I know folks in Kanabec County are excited about the opportunity to drive a bit south and then hop aboard. There is so much potential, you can be assured that the depot task force is doing its homework to make this thing work.

Will depot worsen congestion on Highway 95?

George Johnson thinks that a depot at the city center will do just that. He proposed three alternative locations.

CAMBRIDGE – Long-time Cambridge resident and developer George Johnson is "terribly concerned about the direction the depot task force is moving."
He discussed his opinions with the Cambridge Passenger Rail Depot Task Force during its Nov. 12, 2008 meeting.
Johnson noted that he is strongly opposed to placing the proposed depot at the Cambridge City Center. The reason? The impact he thinks it will have on Highway 95 congestion.
Johnson explained that he first became active in solving traffic issues in Cambridge in 1968 when the Transportation Action Model was created. One of the items that came from this was the formation of Opportunity Boulevard several decades later.
He is now the chair of the Cambridge-Isanti Transportation Action Council (CITAC). "Every one of our transportation studies has pointed to east/west traffic on Highway 95 as the primary traffic problem in the city," Johnson observed.
"We have really serious congestion on Highway 95."
As a developer, Johnson pointed out that the main deterrent to businesses coming in is the traffic.
"I believe the most important criteria you guys are going to have to consider in a depot is what is the impact on Highway 95," he stated. "The city center depot location will absolutely cause the largest delays."
He questioned the assumption that the train will cause minimal delays. At the city center location, the trains will begin moving from a stop one block away from the intersection with Highway 95. "It will take much longer to get across 95 than if they were going 60 or 90 miles per hour," stated Johnson.
"The delays will be serious. It will aggravate one of the most serious issues we have in town."
In addition to the time needed for the train to actually cross the road, there will be the time required for the railroad crossing bars to go down and back up.
After placing a call to a Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railroad signal master, Cambridge property owner Ray Mullen noted that presently trains traveling at 50 to 55 miles per hour trigger crossing bars to lower when they are one-quarter mile away. Trains at 79 miles per hour trigger them at one mile, and those at 110 miles per hour at one and one-half miles.
Additionally, when a train is stopped within an area, as would occur with the passenger rail depot, the guards remain down until the train has passed. Thus, if a depot were located at the city center, the guards at Highway 95 would remain closed from the time the train came close to the time it was on its way again.
"There would be a long delay," stated Mullen.
Cambridge City Development Director Dave Carlberg pointed out that because of possible delays, a one-mile siding has been proposed in the city. A train picking up passengers on the siding would not trigger the crossing guards.
Additionally, Northern Lights Express planners are considering laying dual tracks along the section of line north to Cambridge.
Carlberg pointed out there is much the Cambridge Task Force doesn't yet know, such as the speed of trains as they go through the city and the requirements of the double crossing bars that will replace the existing bars. This information will be procured during a feasibility study which the larger Passenger Rail Alliance is commissioning. It has just received $1.1 million in a federal grant to pay for the work.
"We need a lot more information from the Northern Lights people," said Carlberg.
Task force member and Isanti County Commissioner Susan Morris pointed out, "Trains will cross 95 no matter where the depot is located."
POSSIBLE UNDERPASS
Johnson asked that the city not even consider the city center location unless an underpass is installed at Highway 95.
Even then, he's not sure that he supports the underpass option.
He pointed out it will impact businesses along that road from Emerson west to Main Street. Also, even if the city obtained federal funding, he noted it would not cover the entire cost, and the remainder would fall on local taxpayers.
"Just because we can get federal funding, does that mean we should do it?" he asked.
HIGHWAY 95
Morris noted that last year she served on the Highway 95 Task Force, which looked at the various options of resolving congestion along Highway 95.
In the end, the recommendation the task force made was to widen 95. This option will impact many businesses along that stretch. She noted that the full cost of the project has not been tabulated.
The task force had laid aside both the overpass and underpass options at that time because of the price tag associated with each.
Morris believes the congestion issue needs to be addressed "sooner rather than later." The city may be able to get it done by combining the work with passenger rail.
"This is the ticket to solving a lot of our Highway 95 issues," said Morris.
IS THE DECISION MADE?
Steve Ritchart, who owns land being considered as one option for the depot, asked if the decision about the depot location has already been made. He said that's what he's heard around town.
Ritchart added that from his point of view, it doesn't seem as though there has been much public input on the decision. "I believe the task force hasn't been totally forthcoming," he said.
Task Force Chair Bob Guetschoff replied that the decision has "absolutely not" been made. Rather, the task force has established a list of criteria, and is evaluating five possible sites at this point.
The sites include: the peaking plant area north of town, the Cambridge City Center, First Baptist Church area, the former Ford dealership, and Westrom's Corner.
Task force members are evaluating the sites based on impact on traffic, walkability, space for adequate parking, and potential for future development.
When the evaluation process has been completed, the information will be compiled and presented at a public meeting, as was done with the Highway 95 Task Force. After this, a recommendation will be made to the city council.
This is not a process that will be over in a few weeks, but will take some time.
"We will do our homework," promised Cambridge Mayor Marlys Palmer.
OTHER OPTIONS
Johnson presented task force members with five alternative drawings of how a depot could occupy three sites. One is at 512 South Main, just south of the area the task force has been considering. One option is to locate the depot and parking entirely within the railroad right-of-way. With another, the city could purchase the vacant lot at 512 (which Johnson owns) to offer more parking. The city could also choose to acquire Odmark Electric and the used car dealership along Fourth, vacate the road, realign Fifth Avenue and extend Adams to Fifth. This option would provide more parking and clean up a road that is not well-aligned now, noted Johnson.
This option would place the depot four and one-half blocks from Highway 95 to the south, which may still not be far enough away to eliminate congestion, according to Johnson.
However, it would offer superior walkability to the medical center and industrial park across the tracks which employs 1,000 people.
The second location Johnson proposed was 2440 South Main, the old Ford dealership property. This spot is two miles from Highway 95. The city could acquire only the vacant land, or the former Hayford Ford building, as well, for use as retail or office space. The city could also choose to clean up the area and spread to the land south currently occupied by Watson's and North Country Fabrication.
Another possible location is to bring the depot outside the city of Cambridge and locate it along County Road 19. In CITAC's transportation plan for the region, County Road 19 would become a major thoroughfare with overpasses at Highway 65 and the railroad, and a bridge along the Rum River. This location would pull traffic off Highway 95 altogether.
Morris questioned how many parking spaces were provided in the options presented by Johnson. He did not have the figures, but stated he could return with them.
At its next meeting, set for Jan. 13, 2009 at 3 p.m., the task force will continue evaluating sites.
Citizens who would like to give input are encouraged to contact Carlberg at 763-689-3211 or email dcarlberg@ci.cambridge.mn.us.

CRITERIA
*The task force is evaluating each possible site location using the following list of criteria.

• Downtown location
• Automobile access
• Public transit access
• Walkability
• Bicycle traffic
• Walking distance to major trip generators (Cambridge Medical Center, government center, shopping areas, college)
• Auto drop-off
• Long-term parking
• Short-term parking
• Traffic concerns
• Trains crossing Highway 95
• Acquisition costs
• Future expansion space
• Joint depot (commuter and passenger)
• Land restrictions
• Utilities
• Economic development opportunity
• Building proximity to railroad
• Expansion opportunities

Man dies in hunting accident

Another accidentally shot in the knee.

A 67-year-old Isanti man died on Friday, Nov. 13, 2008 following a hunting accident at his home.
According to Isanti County Chief Deputy Russ Monson, Glen Roeder had gone out to his deer stand and while climbing his foot slipped and lodged between the ladder and the tree. He fell backwards and was unable to free himself.
Shortly after 4 p.m., his son, Mark Roeder, heard four shots fired. He went out to look for his father, and found him deceased between 5:30 and 6 p.m.
Roeder was an avid hunter and fisherman, and he loved the outdoors, according to his family.
The funeral service was held Nov. 17, 2008 at Strike Funeral Home – Isanti Chapel. See obituary on page 9.
ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING
An 18-year-old man was accidentally shot by his grandfather on Saturday morning, Nov. 15 in the southwest part of Isanti County.
According to Monson, when Harold Krause, 78, shot off his 12-gauge the shot ricocheted and struck his grandson, Deon Guinn, in the back of the knee.
No further information is available at this time.

Attorney stops escaping inmate

Former peace officer chases down a man making a run for it after a court appearance in Isanti County.

When he heard commotion in the hallway at the government center on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2008, Assistant Isanti County Attorney David Kraemer didn't hesitate.
He dropped the files he was carrying back to his office and dashed towards the noise.
As he rounded the corner near the court administration window, Kraemer saw inmate Cary Barry Kessel of Cambridge running towards the stairs. He was still handcuffed.
Kraemer, trailed by the court baliff, followed him down the stairs. The balliff tasered Kessel for the second time, but he didn't halt.
In the lobby, Kraemer, a former peace officer, caught up with Kessel and stopped him.
It's been 10 years since Kraemer worked as a conservation officer, but his training came back to him.
It's not the first time, Kraemer has stopped an uncooperative suspect. While working in International Falls, he wrestled with a drunk snowmobiler. And as a prosecutor in Douglas County he assisted with escapees if he was around.
"If I'm available I'm going to chase them," said Kraemer. "I'm not going to let them run by.
"The courtroom personnel have difficult jobs to do. If I can help them, I'm going to."
Kraemer added, "You don't know when someone is out of control what they're going to do. The person is not rational. He's got a history of violence. You don't let somebody like that just run out."
Kraemer had noticed during Kessel's bail hearing shortly after 11 a.m. that he seemed agitated and knew he had been a difficult inmate since being locked up on Nov. 8. Kessel had been arrested the week before for second degree test refusal and driving while under the influence of alcohol. The charges were exacerbated by a probation violation for a DUI in 2007. While in custody, the charges related to an incident where he allegedly inappropriately touched a Pizza Hut delivery driver on Oct. 28 were also filed.
On Nov. 12, after the Honorable P. Hunter Anderson informed Kessel that he was to be held without bail, Kessel, who was handcuffed, kicked off his shoes and ran for the courtroom door, according to Isanti County Attorney Jeff Edblad, who had also just left the room. After court officer David Bowman's taser was unable to stop him, Kessel ran out of the courtroom and into the hallway of the second floor of the Isanti County Government Center.
That's where he encountered Kraemer.
After being returned to jail, Kessel kicked out and broke a window in the holding cell.
Kessel is expected to be charged with felony attempted escape from custody and criminal damage to property from the Nov. 12 incident.
As for Kraemer, he's glad no one else was hurt.

No change in commissioner race following recount

ISANTI COUNTY – Over 4,000 ballots were recounted on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2008, but the results remained the same.
Isanti County Commissioner Larry Southerland held onto his seat by eight votes.
Challenger Terry Turnquist had requested the recount.
During the recount at the Isanti County Government Center, both candidates were present. The recount began at 1:30 p.m. and lasted until 5 p.m.
Each ballot was examined by hand, and if anyone disagreed with the results it was re-examined, according to Isanti County Auditor Terry Treichel. "There was no issue with the way people marked their ballots," he said.
In the recount, the legality of each vote is not questioned. "Basically, what we're doing is determining the count of votes," explained Turnquist.
The county canvassing board will meet to certify the results on Friday morning.
At that point, Turnquist has seven days to contest the results in the court system if he feels there is any irregularity.
Treichel was pleased that the results remained the same. "The machines proved accurate again," he noted.
The one issue that arose during the recount was that half the precinct judges did not initial the absentee ballots they opened up before running them through the machines. This occurred in Wyanett, Springvale and Maple Ridge Townships.
Treichel pointed out that this recount was a preliminary of the recount that will occur next Thursday and Friday when the results for Minnesota Senator are scrutinized.

Southerland wins by eight votes

Two incumbents ousted in Chisago County

Eight voters made the difference in the race for Isanti County Commissioner in District 2.
Larry Southerland was re-elected by those eight votes.
The people watching the results come in at the Isanti County Government Center on Tuesday night, Nov. 4, 2008 figured that challenger Terry Turnquist was going to capture the seat as he was in the lead with one township yet to count. But when the results from Wyanett Township were entered, Southerland had won by eight votes.
There will be a recount in the race.
Meanwhile, in southern Isanti County, District 4 Commissioner Kurt Daudt held onto his seat and will serve a second term. He earned 65% of the vote compared to Jaysen Guthmueller's 35%.
A new face will occupy the District 3 seat following the retirement of long-time commissioner Tom Pagel. Allan Duff, current Isanti City Council member, garnered 54% of the vote to beat Gail Genin. This will leave a vacancy on the Isanti City Council.
CHISAGO COUNTY
In Chisago County, two incumbents were ousted from the county board, and one held onto his seat.
Longtime District 3 commissioner Bob Gustafson will be replaced by George McMahon, who received 54% of the vote.
In District 1, Lora Walker takes back the seat Lynn Schultz won from her four years ago. It was a close race, however. Walker garnered 52% of the vote while Schultz earned 47%.
Mike Robinson in District 4 was the sole incumbent commissioner to survive the election. He beat out challenger Bob Carter, earning 64% of the vote.

HOMELESS FOR A NIGHT

Folks sleep in cardboard boxes to raise money for local homeless program.

CAMBRIDGE – Little Lauren Kindem learned about homelessness firsthand on Friday, Oct. 24, 2008.
She spent the night in a cardboard box at the Isanti County Fairgrounds as a participant in the Box City fundraiser. With her were her five-year-old brother Erik, grandmother Teresa Hasbrook and friend Gwen Thomas.
The four were among 109 people who raised over $12,000 for the local homeless shelter program, New Pathways. Planners intend to repeat the event next year on Oct. 23.
This wasn't the first humanitarian effort for Hasbrook and Thomas. They've also spent time in Tanzania and volunteer for a soup kitchen in the Twin Cities. The friends brought along the kids for a night in a cardboard box to broaden their hearts and make them more knowledgeable about the issues surrounding homelessness, observed Hasbrook.
After placing their boxes on the ground and then adding pillows and blankets, the next step was decorating. On their cardboard boxes the foursomes taped up photos of homeless individuals.
"It's becoming more and more of a reality," noted Hasbrook. The thought of those displaced because of foreclosures has "really touched my heart."
Thomas pointed out that the homeless are often those you wouldn't expect. They are people with jobs and kids who are attending school. Teenagers who might be living in their cars or under bridges.
The small group was sponsored by East Central Energy, which employs Hasbrook and Thomas. "It's in keeping with East Central Energy's commitment to community," noted Thomas.
One hundred feet away, 17 members of the EverBlest Choir from the Cambridge Lutheran Church labored over three different cardboard enclosures. They started work on the boxes the night before and then transported the pieces to the fairgrounds where they were reconstructed. They were ready for a cold night.
Angela Gertz was wearing long johns, leggings, two pairs of socks, and a down jacket – and she came with two sleeping bags. Plus, the choir girls had each other to keep warm, she added.
Farther down the line, Brandin Johnson and Taylor Lyons worked to put together their log-cabin-themed box. The teenagers had stayed up until 5 a.m. getting it ready for the Box City event. It was a little worse for the wear after being transported in a station wagon, but they were busy reattaching the paper "logs" before settling in for the night. "We know homeless people," noted their chaperone Patty Carlson. "We want to raise awareness."
With Halloween a week away, Johnson had also brought along a box that fit the holiday. Shaped like a coffin, a sign next to it read: "RIP Homeless Victim. Raise awareness not statistics."
"People die in the Minnesota weather," pointed out Carlson.
Raising awareness of the problem in rural Minnesota was one of the main goals behind holding the Box City fundraiser, noted New Pathways Board member John Roberts.
The money raised will support the Cambridge program. New Pathways supports families that face homelessness in east central Minnesota. At a day center in downtown Cambridge, staff members help parents hunt for jobs and hone the skills they need. At night, families are taken to local churches, including Cambridge Lutheran, Elim Baptist, Faith Lutheran, First Baptist, Grace Bible Fellowship, Long Lake Lutheran, New Hope Community, North Isanti Baptist, Oxlip Evangelical Free, Sts. Peter and Paul, Stanchfield Baptist, Trinity Lutheran and Cambridge United Methodist.
Last year the program assisted 34 families. A maximum of 24 can be served as one time. Since the program's inception in 2000, 301 families have been helped.
To get involved, call 763-691-0121 or email infonpi@newpathwaysmn.com.

PROGRAMS FOR THE HOMELESS

Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN): Cambridge site
• Chisago County
• Isanti County
• Kanabec County
• Mille Lacs County
• Pine County

Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN): Brainerd site
• Cass County
• Crow Wing County
• Morrison County
• Todd County
• Wadena County

Isanti House Transitional Housing Program
Serves the families from both IHN programs

FOR MORE INFORMATION
CALL 763-691-0121
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TO A POINT: If I were running for office …

WHY DON'T people prepare for office before they run? I've done my fair share of local political reporting the past few months, and I keep asking myself that question.
I would think these new candidates would begin showing up for school board, city council and county board meetings – depending on which it is they'd like to join. Not only would they get a sense for how things go before jumping in with both feet, but they'd also serve the voter better. They would then know what issues are before that body and how they're being dealt with now. And then they could come with their own solutions.
In fact, if I were running for office I'd take the time to read through the minutes of each meeting for the last year or so. Then I wouldn't suggest something that's already been done before. Then I would avoid sitting in meetings for the first few months with nothing to say because I'm trying to figure out what's going on. Most of all, I'd avoid looking like an idiot, and I try to do that whenever possible.
I question why these candidates don't care to arm themselves with the facts of each situation. Perhaps it is because of my training as a journalist, but I want to gather as much information as possible on a topic before I start sharing my opinions on it.
Call me self-absorbed, but I think those candidates OWE it to us voters to be well-informed. I only need point to Washington, D.C. to prove how much ill-informed people can mess things up. (I could use plenty of other adjectives to describe those politicians, but that's off topic, so I'll refrain.)
I've always leaned towards supporting term limits because I think it's good to get new blood onto a board. New people come with fresh ideas. They see things from different angles. They have lots of energy. I think those are very worthwhile traits. Yet, quite frankly, it scares me to elect someone who I don't feel has a good grasp of the current situation. As a voter, I'm checking a name on a ballot because I feel this person will serve me well, that they'll factor in every side to each situation, that they'll treat my tax dollar as their own. I want to know they're level-headed, business-minded and fair. I want to elect a person of integrity. Even if I don't agree with their position all the time, I want someone I can respect.
If I were running for office, that's the kind of person I'd try to be.

Braham man faces attempted murder charges for harming baby

Baby's mother also charged for neglect.

A Braham man is facing attempted murder charges after his girlfriend's 14-month-old baby was treated for a skull fracture.
While Allyn Hanson, 20, first denied having babysat the child on Oct. 24, he later confessed that he had indeed watched the baby all day while the mother was at work.
He told investigators that the toddler had fallen down a set of stairs.
The mother, Deanna Jacobs, 24, also of Braham, brought the baby into the Cambridge Medical Center emergency room at 9:40 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24. The treating nurse became concerned at the lack of alarm Jacobs showed when told about her child's injuries. In addition to the skull fracture, there were multiple new and old bruises on the baby's forehead, back, chest and buttocks. There were also signs of fingerprint bruising on the baby's neck.
The toddler was intubated and then flown via helicopter to Hennepin County Medical Center.
STORIES CHANGE
When questioned, Jacobs first told investigators that a babysitter named Rachel had watched the baby and her five-year-old brother while she was working at Wal-Mart. However, she was not able to provide a last name nor telephone number for the sitter. She also said that the five-year-old had been watching his brother when he looked away and the baby fell down the stairs.
She later admitted that she had left the baby with her boyfriend.
Jacobs also told investigators that Hanson becomes violent when he drinks. She said that he had threatened to beat her if she told investigators the truth.
Meanwhile, Hanson told several versions of what had happened to the baby, as well, before finally admitting he had watched the baby fall down the stairs from his viewpoint in the outside doorway.
HISTORY OF ABUSE
According to Dawn Klose, a woman who had been the baby's main caregiver for 11 months, Jacobs had initially given the baby up for adoption but then changed her mind. Jacobs and her children then lived with Klose and her family from November 2007 to June 2008, when Jacobs moved out with the five-year-old to live with Hanson.
When the baby came home after a visit to Hanson in July, he had a black eye. In August, the baby came back from a visit with bruises on the whole side of his face. After a visit in October, the baby had a split lip and marks on his neck. Klose then called the police, and informed Child Protective Services in Kanabec County.
On Wednesday, Oct. 22, Jacobs took the baby from Klose.
CHARGES
Hanson is facing four charges, including first degree attempted murder, third degree attempted murder, first degree assault and malicious punishment of a child.
Jacobs is also facing charges, including neglecting a child, endangering a child and aiding an offender.
Both made their initial court appearances on Tuesday, Oct. 28.

CAUGHT VIA LASER

New tool enables deputies to pinpoint speeders in a group and target difficult stretches of roadway.

Figure if you're speeding in a group of vehicles that you won't be pulled over? Think again. New technology makes it easier for law enforcement to pinpoint each vehicle's speed one by one.
The Isanti County Sheriff's Department is now using this new laser technology, thanks to a donation from the Minnesota Safe & Sober program.
"We can work an aspect of traffic we haven't been able to in the past," noted Isanti County Deputy Chris Caulk.
Since the 1960s, law enforcement has been using radars to gauge the speed of drivers. The tools work best on two-lane roads. Radars provide two speeds at a time. When an officer is working a four-lane roadway and a pack of cars comes up, the radar spits out a series of speeds as it reads each oncoming vehicle. A trained officer can accurately determine which speed reading belongs to which vehicle, and issue a ticket confident it will hold up in court.
However, the radar has its limitations, noted Caulk. To work, the deputy's vehicle must be facing the same direction as the roadway. But there are some stretches of road, such as in densely packed neighborhoods with no shoulder, where there is no room for an officer's vehicle.
This is a situation perfectly suited for the new hand-held laser device. An officer can park the car out of the way in a driveway entrance, for example, and get out of the squad to aim the laser at oncoming vehicles. The laser beam quickly locks onto an oncoming car that is located as far as 1,500 feet away, and displays a speed reading as well as a distance reading. An officer then has enough time to jump back into the vehicle, catch the speeder and issue a ticket.
"Our computers allow us to be more efficient in our job," noted Caulk. "A laser allows us to more effectively work traffic."
Traffic is an officer's main responsibility, remarked Caulk. It is a way to be proactive and seek out offenders, rather than be reactive and respond to calls. Within a 10-hour shift, he estimates he spends between three to four hours focused solely on traffic, but as he moves to and from various calls he's always keeping a look out for traffic violators.
By pulling drivers over for traffic violations, a myriad of other crimes are brought to light.
At each stop, a driver's record is pulled and analyzed by an officer there in the squad car, thanks to the computers each car is equipped with. Officers learn whether the driver's license is suspended or there is a warrant issued, and can then react appropriately.
In areas where burglaries are high, a police presence shown through traffic stops decreases the incidences of burglaries, Caulk pointed out.
"Highly visible traffic law enforcement reduces criminal activity, crashes and calls for service, as well as increases the community's feelings of safety," observed Bob O'Brien of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS).
In fact, 39% of felony arrests in 2006 were a result of traffic stops. Many highly publicized crimes were solved because of a traffic stop, O'Brien added, including the Oklahoma bombing. Timothy McVeigh was stopped for not having a license plate.
Traffic enforcement is one piece in an equation the DPS employs to reduce crashes in the state. "We have found that adhering to the three Es (engineering, education and enforcement) will reduce crashes in a community. However, if any piece of the formula is lacking the program will fail," said O'Brien.
The total number of crashes in the state increased 3.5% between 2006 and 2007. In Isanti County, however, crashes went down from 533 in 2005 to 430 in 2007.
To make roads safer, areas are targeted at specific times throughout the year. Through the use of grant funds, extra patrols are put out with the sole purpose of making traffic stops. Over Memorial Day and in October, the focus is on seatbelts; in July it is on speed; and over Labor Day and in December it is on those driving under the influence.
"We're going out and saving lives," said O'Brien.
The lack of a seatbelt, high speeds and driving while intoxicated are the top three contributors to crashes in the state, according to O'Brien. Fifty percent of those killed in traffic crashes were not wearing their seatbelts. On a positive note, the current seatbelt usage is at 86%.
Roads in rural areas tend to be the site of more severe crashes. While 70% of crashes occur in urban areas, they account for only 30% of the fatalities. Over 70% of deaths occur on rural roads.
O'Brien pointed to narrower roads, higher speeds, and fewer people wearing seatbelts as the reason for the fatalities. The goal of the DPS and the Safe & Sober program is to reduce the number of deaths that occur each year.
Because of its success during these saturation periods, Isanti County was rewarded with the donation of the Pro Laser III. It is the first one owned by the sheriff's department, and is worth $3,000. Cambridge and Isanti Police Departments, as well as the local state patrol squads, also use laser guns.

Harris clerk resigns

Wothe's last day will be Nov. 10.

Harris City Clerk Jennifer Wothe has resigned.
The city council will hold a special meeting on Thursday night to formally accept her resignation and and consider hiring an interim clerk.
"She's going to be tough to replace," said Harris Mayor Rick Smisson. "It will be very hard to find someone with her credentials, skill and drive to get things done."
Wothe has been with the city since December 2006. She has accepted a position with the city of Clearwater as the city administrator. Her last day in Harris will be Nov. 10.
At this time, the Wothe family intends to remain living in Isanti.
Smisson pointed to a number of things Wothe has accomplished while employed by the city of Harris.
First and foremost, she organized the city's files. When she arrived at the city, what she inherited was a back room that "looked like you'd swept it all together in a big pile and threw it in a drawer," said Smisson. Today, when paperwork is needed it can be found within 15 minutes. Wothe also organized the front office.
In addition, Smisson noted that Wothe has established many policies. She was proactive in noticing a policy was needed and then going out and gathering the information to present to the council. She then made sure that policy was enforced equally.
"One of her great strengths is she will look you in the face and say, 'That is against the rules, and I don't care who you are,'" said Smisson.
Smisson anticipates that the first step the city council will take is to hire an interim clerk. Plans are to wait to hire a permanent clerk until January when the new council is in place.

Isanti County tightens up emergency assistance qualifications

ISANTI COUNTY – Isanti County is tightening up its regulations on who qualifies for emergency assistance.
Currently, Isanti County residents can tap into two programs. These changes affect only one, the County Crisis Assistance program.
Dick Williams of the Isanti County Family Services Department presented the changes to the Isanti County Board on Oct. 15, 2008. The board approved modifying the policy.
The most significant difference is that a cap has been placed on how much a family can qualify for.
The maximum payment will be four times the monthly cash assistance standard for that size household. For a mom and child, that amount is about $1,600. For a family of four, it's about $2,600.
"We're tightening around the edges to get it under control," said Williams. Recent payments have been running at about $3,000.
Additionally, if a family is living in a place that is obviously over what they can afford, the county won't help with assistance. Instead, social workers will help them find other shelter. Housing is considered over the family's budget if the cost of rent/mortgage, homeowner's insurance, real estate taxes and utility fees amount to more than 75% of the family income.
According to this policy, telephone, cable and Internet are not considered basic needs and are not eligible for funding assistance. The one exception is if they are required for medical reasons.
RECYCLING PROPERTIES
Pinnacle Engineering works to redevelop sites that may or may not have had chemical contamination. Two representatives, Matt Stokes and Eric Hansen, discussed their services with the Isanti County Board.
Termed brownfields redevelopment, Pinnacle works first to identify whether there is contamination at a site. Sometimes, a site is suspect merely because there was a gasoline leak next door, for instance.
Next, they work to help determine how much clean-up a site needs. This is based on what the intended redevelopment of the site will be. Another building with a parking lot that will cover the entire area will help contain any kind of leak, and eliminate some of the costly clean-up that might otherwise be required. Clean-up for use as a residential property will be different from that for an industrial use. This is referred to as "corrective action based on use," noted Hansen.
Pinnacle also works with developers to identify and apply for grants to help pay for the clean-up. According to Hansen, the current success rate is 97%.
Isanti County is considering redevelopment assistance with a piece of property located in the city of Isanti which was obtained through foreclosure proceedings.

In Brief
Medica Group Prime Solutions will again provide health insurance for retirees. The cost is $247 per month compared to $239 last year.
The position of county administrator will soon be advertised. The county board hopes to begin conducting interviews in mid-December. Current county coordinator Jerry Tvedt will retire in January.
Isanti County received $75,000 from the Urban Area Security Initiative to create an emergency control center in the basement of the government center.
The parks department is looking for folks to remove about 75 trees that have contracted oak wilt at the John Anderson Park. Closed bids are due by Oct. 29.
Tax abatements were approved for RMLG Enterprise in Isanti ($7,094) due to incorrect acreage amounts in 2006 and 2007; and James C. Shea in Wyanett Township ($346) due to a valuation error in 2007.
Nov. 3 is County Financial Aid Worker and Case Aide Day.
Land north of Hayford Ford was rezoned from Urban Service District 2 to Business District 1. It is owned by Sadio Punjani.
The meeting was closed to discuss union negotiations and litigation.
Resignations: Andrew Lloyd as jailer, Crystal Huntley-Egemo in family services

Where they stand

Candidates for Isanti County Commissioner Districts 2,3, and 4, as well as those for Representative District 17A, face off.

In the last of the Isanti County forums, candidates for the three Isanti County Commissioner district, as well as those for Representative District 17A, faced off on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2008.
The forum was held at the Anoka-Ramsey Community College – Cambridge Campus. It was moderated by college employee Joy Des Marais.
Attending were Isanti County Commissioner District 2 candidates Larry Southerland and Terry Turnquist; District 3 candidates Alan Duff and Gail Genin; District 4 candidates Kurt Daudt and Jaysen Guthmueller; and Representative District 17A candidates Rob Eastlund (R), Jim Godfrey (D) and Daniel Sweeney (IvoteMN.net).


Commissioner candidates

WHAT ARE THE CRITICAL ISSUES THE COUNTY FACES IN THE NEXT FOUR YEARS?
People don't want their taxes to go up, noted District 4 incumbent Kurt Daudt. But at the same time, various county expenses are rapidly increasing. The county's healthcare expenses are going up by 15 to 30% a year. The cost of rebuilding roads has increased 60% over the last three years. Added to the challenge is the county's requirement to pay for state-mandated services. Additionally, the county's long-time coordinator is retiring, and the county board has decided to replace him by moving to a county administrator system for better organizational control.
Rising taxes is the number one issue for District 4 candidate Jaysen Guthmueller. Also pressing is the fact that Isanti County exports more laborers than it pulls in. He thinks a solution to this is to focus on economic development. "Public safety will always be my number one priority," Guthmueller added. He also hopes to convince the state to stop requiring counties to do work it doesn't pay for. He doesn't want to cut services, nor does he want to raise taxes. "In tough economic times, we must restrain government's appetite," he said.
Traffic, zoning and public safety are the most important issues facing commissioners, noted Terry Turnquist, District 2 candidate. He also advocates fiscal responsibility. "It is important that we as government leaders hold the line on taxes," said the 12-year Braham mayor. He pushed for a good long-range plan as the key to success.
After serving as sheriff for many years, Southerland continues to focus on public safety. "Residents can expect safe roads and safe neighborhoods," he said. The economy and the effect of foreclosures on the tax base are also issues to focus on. The state should be stopped from passing mandates onto counties, particularly when they are unfunded. "Government revenue is no different than personal income," said Southerland. "In tough times, we must restrain government's appetite for tax dollars."
High taxes, excessive government spending, high crime, drug use, economic job creation, safe drinking water, and transportation options are among the top 10 issues facing Isanti County, according to District 3 candidate Allan Duff. He pointed out that while he served on the Isanti City Council 300 new jobs were brought into the community. Other issues include the impact on housing due to foreclosed properties and the preservation of the rural character. His goals are: 1) 0 tax levy in 2009-2010 budget, 2) Set up a long-term financial plan by 2010, 3) Create a county newsletter, host regular meetings with county residents, and make meetings available on county web site.
The economic situation has impacted the county, according to Gail Genin. Taxes are always one of the biggest issues facing residents. Along with that is the "over valuation" of property. She will push for valuations being more equal to what the current market value is. There is always a trade-off between services and the cost of offering them, she noted. She vowed to make economic development a priority and work with the county's economic development authority, as well as the three cities, to attract good, high-paying jobs to the area. Another pressing need is transportation, she said.
HOW CAN THE COUNTY EFFECTIVELY MANAGE COUNTY LEVY DOLLARS?
Turnquist advocated meeting with department heads and going over the budget line by line to look for expenses that can be cut. "You cannot spend money you don't have," he said.
Southerland pointed out that a unified county board has kept the levy increases to 2% a year, which places the county at 17 out of 87. "Seventy counties charge more in taxes," he stressed.
Genin would spend time in each department getting to know the ins and outs before making any decisions. She promised, "I'd spend each dollar as though it were coming from my pocket."
Duff noted that there is a difference between state-mandated expenses and discretionary funding. He pushed for the creation of a long-term financial plan, as well as a finance committee to serve as a financial watchdog. He also advocated for transparency at the county board level through taped meetings and an e-newsletter.
The proper way to balance a budget is to actively manage it throughout the year, noted Guthmueller. He pointed out that on his web site he has a list of 53 cost-saving ideas. Among those are saving on energy costs. "A dollar wasted is a dollar we can't spend on services or programs," he said. He also wants to restore the county's reserve fund.
"The county board has been incredibly creative in its budgets," according to Daudt. "In the four years that I've been on the board, the tax rate has gone down every year." He promised to continue to look at every dollar that is spent.
WHAT IS YOUR POSITION ON SELLING DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS AS PROPOSED IN THE NEW COMPREHENSIVE PLAN?
Duff supports development where infrastructure is in place. He pointed out the state demographer predicted that 1 million people will be added to the Twin Cities area. "Growth is going to happen. We need to make it a positive experience," he said. He also stressed that development costs be paid for by the developer.
Genin served on the group that helped form the new comprehensive plan. She pointed out the county already has the option of transferring development rights (TDR). It is currently allowed under single ownership when the land is contiguous. The new rules would allow multiple owners to get involved and land that is not contiguous. Private landowners would set a fair market value, she pointed out. The county would not be involved in this part. She continues to support the new regulations.
The issues around TDRs is what has stalled the approval of the comprehensive plan, noted Daudt. He supports a modified version that would allow the transfer of rights on land owned by the same person. This would alleviate the concerns he's heard from township boards, he said.
Given the large number of platted lots currently available in the county, Guthmueller doesn't feel now is a good time to increase residential development options.
Southerland doesn't support the transfer of rights at this point.
Turnquist questions whether the county's zoning staff can handle keeping track of TDRs. The concept of encouraging growth in high density areas makes sense to him, however.
WHAT FUNDING SOURCES WOULD YOU CONSIDER FOR PARKS AND ROADS?
"I'm a firm believer that development should pay for itself," said Guthmueller. After observing how may developers in Isanti walked away, he advocates a two-year waiting period before the county would take responsibility for new developments. He also supports using state and federal funds when available.
Daudt pointed out that the way the county has funded parks through development fees has been successful. Roads and bridges are another matter, however, especially considering the 60% increase in costs over the past few years. The gas tax increase will provide the county with a small amount of additional funds. Bonding would be a short-term solution. The long-term solution is supporting economic development that will increase the tax base, he said.
Turnquist noted that roads and bridges can be bonded for and the payments spaced out over time. Parks can be paid for through fees that are set aside. If needed, the county also has the authority to issue special levies for certain expenses.
Southerland advocates looking at all sources of funding, including grants, fees and volunteer help for parks. As part of the Trunk Highway 65 Task Force, he is working to solicit federal grants to pay for improvements at Highways 65 and 107.
Genin is open to all types of funding options. She would like to see volunteer groups organized to help with parks.
When needed, Duff supports increasing taxes to pay for specific projects, such as the water treatment facility in Isanti which will benefit the health, safety and welfare of citizens. He would approach each project by asking, "What do we actually need to get the job done and how can we do it with limited resources?"

Representative candidates

The three men vying for the position of Minnesota Representative for District 17A answered a variety of questions ranging from their priorities to how they would deal with the state's impending budget deficit.
WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU TAKE TO DEAL WITH MINNESOTA'S BUDGET DEFICIT?
Incumbent Rob Eastlund pointed out that with a deficit this large, the state needs to look at big-ticket items. He pointed out that two years ago when the state had a large surplus a decision was made to increase the Health & Human Services budget by 17%. Aother 14% increase is slated to take effect in 2009. "If we roll back the 14% increase set to go into effect we would not have a deficit in Minnesota," said Eastlund. "We could solve the whole problem with that one budget item."
Sweeney intends to ask the people of Minnesota to vote on every issue, and then will vote that way. He will do this by offering online voting; those without Internet access can phone it in.
Godfrey noted that politicians are not working together to solve the problems. He advocated reinvesting in areas through grants. He would focus on helping the mom-and-pop businesses, reducing property taxes, cutting the red tape and offering affordable healthcare for everyone.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TWO PRIORITIES?
The current economic situation and K-12 funding are what Sweeney would focus on. When he grew up, he noted that his parents weren't asked to approve levies for school districts. There was enough funding to fully support the schools without asking local taxpayers for more. Regarding the economy, Sweeney pressed for a "budget that is fair for the working class." He wants to see lobbyists eliminated for good.
Jobs and education are Godfrey's top two priorities. He supports Isanti's desire to create an industrial rail park, and would seek federal funds to help pay for it. He also advocates prioritizing road needs and keeping those in front of the Minnesota Department of Transportation and federal committees. Having educated students is important to being able to compete in a global workforce, Godfrey pointed out. "We have to make sure they're trained."
Eastlund will focus on funding for K-12 and nursing homes. He pointed to the inequality in the current education funding formula. Schools in Minneapolis get 6% more than CI schools, he noted. The same is true with nursing homes. Those in the Twin Cities area get higher reimbursements than those in Isanti County.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP PRIORITIES FOR THE STATE OF MINNESOTA?
Excessive partisanship is hurting the state, according to Godfrey. An example of this is what occurred with changes made to the Green Acres law in the last few hours of the 2008 legislative session. "We shouldn't be playing games with our budget," he said. Instead Godfrey advocates repealing the changes, and then working towards a solution in a transparent fashion. He also pushes for reforming the tax system. "We're putting a squeeze on the middle class. We need to hold the line," he said.
Pocketbook issues are at the forefront right now, said Eastlund. To combat that, legislators must first look at the price of government and get it under control. "The price of government can't rise when the people that support government can't pay," said Eastlund. Also hurting is the entire economic engine in America. Eastlund pointed out that 70% of jobs in the country are produced by small businesses. These businesses are hurting because of the existing tax structure. "It's no secret why Northwest went to Georgia," he noted. Minnesota must reform its "oppressive" tax structure and then businesses can pull the state through the economic crisis.
Sweeney believes the budget and representation are the top two issues. He charged that the incumbent doesn't represent the middle class the way he would. He pointed to his platform of letting voters decide on the issue and how their want their tax dollars spent as being representation. He urged voters to vote their conscience. "It's time for change," he said.

FUTURE PLANS

Candidates for District 911 School Board, Cambridge City Council share their goals.

What will candidates do if elected?
Those running for District 911 School Board and Cambridge City Council seats talked about just that during a candidates forum held on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2008. The event took place at the Anoka-Ramsey Community College in Cambridge. It will be followed by a second forum on Thursday, Oct. 23 at the same place, which will feature those running for county commissioner seats, as well as state positions.
Candidates discussed issues such as Highway 95 congestion, a possible community center, top issues, rewarding teachers for student achievement, the No Child Left Behind Act, and classroom enhancements.
Present were city council candidates Bob Shogren, John Klossner, Joe Morin, Lisa Iverson and Joseph Brown; and District 911 candidates Phil Rodriguez, Anne Nelson, Gary Hawkins, Jeanette Polzin, Stuart Hazard, Darcy Winsor and John Carlson.
Serving as moderator was Bob Edstrom of Cambridge State Bank. The event was organized by the Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce.

City council candidate questions
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE ISSUES?
For Bob Shogren, his top three priorities are taxes, economic development and rail – with Highway 95 running a close fourth. Shogren pointed out that since he joined the council the tax rate in the city has been steadily decreasing, and this year was held to zero. He also aims to continue to attract businesses as they provide a good tax base. "If we don't get passenger rail, we would be passing up such a huge economic development opportunity," said Shogren.
Taxes are the number one issue for John Klossner, followed by Highway 95 congestion and commuter rail. He believes that economic development and either passenger or commuter rail will bring additional money into the city.
"Taxes are the main thing people are upset with," said Joe Morin. He noted that the current city council (on which he served as a member for several years) has brought them down through a concentrated effort, although it hasn't been easy. He thinks that traffic along Highway 95 is getting better. If the city can bring in more economic development, such as Lowe's and Kohl's, taxes will go down.
Lisa Iverson thinks it's important to ask community members what they think is important and what the issues are. She agrees that the city needs more economic development. "We need to sell our city," she said. She also hopes to battle drug use and crime.
"My goal would be to lower property taxes in half within five years," said Joe Brown. The taxes are a turn-off to people considering a move into Cambridge, he pointed out. He also thinks that the lack of entertainment is a huge issue, and the lack of it leads to other problems. He also hopes to increase the number of local jobs.
HOW SHOULD THE CITY HANDLE HIGHWAY 95?
Brown agrees that the city's current plan to widen it is a good option. He also suggested cutting off access onto Highway 95 from other streets, such as Emerson. As the worst congestion is caused by the rail tracks, Brown suggested considering a bridge or rerouting the tracks altogether.
Iverson isn't sure she's yet heard all the options, and thinks the answer lies with community members.
Morin praised the work done last year by the Highway 95 Task Force which studied various options and reached a conclusion. He agrees that widening it is the best and cheapest option. He also stresses that people should take alternate routes through town, including taking advantage of Opportunity Boulevard.
"Widening the road gets you the most bang for your buck," said Klossner. Other options, such as an underpass, may be appropriate for the future. He pointed out the city needs to balance the hassle or drivers with the benefit to retailers along the busy stretches.
Shogren pointed out the roadway is managed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and they're ultimately responsible for fixing it. He noted that the city has worked with MnDOT on the timing of the lights on Highway 95, and worked to improve traffic flow by offering alternate routes, such as the Garfield Street extension. He noted that an underpass needs to be looked at as a possible solution.
DO YOU SUPPORT A COMMUNITY CENTER JOINT VENTURE WITH THE YMCA?
"It's a good idea," said Klossner. His only concern at this time is how much the city would be responsible for paying.
Shogren agreed that it is a good idea and would encourage the partnership. "It's a good alternative instead of the city having to come up with all the money."
Morin also feels that a YMCA would be a good fit in the community.
Iverson, too, supports it, and thinks it would help people get fit.
"A YMCA is exactly what I was looking for to keep people occupied," said Brown.

School board candidate questions
WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT CHALLENGE FACING THE DISTRICT?
Phil Rodriguez believes the biggest challenge is funding. He noted that 16 years ago the district had small class sizes, a gifted and talented program, and foreign languages in elementary school. But four times since 1991, the district has had a 0% increase in its state funding. "As a result of this, we've had to cut every year," he said. He vowed to go to the legislature to fight for school funding.
Above all, it's about students and their future in a global economy, noted Anne Nelson. She pointed out that the school district must pay for mandates from the federal government. She will push for alternative delivery methods, as traditional methods have not changed over time.
Gary Hawkins agreed that the biggest challenge is funding, yet with the markets tanking he doesn't know how the district can ask people for more money. "We need a stable funding position for Cambridge-Isanti," he said.
Jeanette Polzin stresses that the district could save money on energy costs, and urges that the district look at alternative methods. A school district in Pipestone, Minn. installed a wind generator, and now creates so much energy that it's sold back to the community.
Stuart Hazard stressed funding adequately and funding equity. He pointed out that federal mandates for special education have never been fully funded by the federal government as they are supposed to be.
Darcy Winsor, too, pointed towards funding and subsequent cuts.
John Carlson believes the district needs to become more agile in order to adapt to the reductions he believes will continue to come.
IS THE NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT IN NEED OF REFORM?
Carlson believes the act was part of a shotgun approach commonly followed by the federal government. He thinks it is the responsibility of people now to tell the government what is really needed. "It needs to be reformed," he said.
Winsor agreed, pointing out it doesn't factor in English as a Second Language or Special Education students, but sets the same goals for every one.
Hazard doesn't think tests address all the problems students are facing.
Polzin doesn't believe in standardized testing, but favors individuals being tested throughout the year to measure progress. "Tests once a year don't help students," she said.
Hawkins thinks how the tests given show success and failure needs to be re-evaluated.
Nelson believes the act is demoralizing for students, teachers and administrators, as it doesn't take into account progress individuals students have made. "It is unrealistic to believe that 100% of the student body will be 100% proficient," she said. "The No Child Left Behind Act treats all schools equally, and in this country we are all different."
Rodriguez pointed out student achievement and progress varies, and thus standards should take that into account.
DO YOU SUPPORT ASKING VOTERS TO APPROVE A LEVY REFERENDUM?
All the candidates agreed that a levy referendum is important and should be supported.
SHOULD TEACHERS BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR STUDENT PERFORMANCE?
Rodriguez thinks that they should, although he pointed out the difficulty in applying standards to special education instructors. He supports Q Comp, and the idea of paying teachers for what they accomplish.
The biggest problem with this type of system, according to Nelson, is how to measure progress. Yet paying for performance is a system that works well in other professions.
Hawkins doesn't think it is fair to reward one teacher over another based on how well their students do.
"I believe that teachers are accountable, but I believe parents are too," said Polzin.
Hazard pointed out that people tend to criticize teachers, but he thinks the administrators need to be held accountable.
Winsor agreed that parents should be involved, and thinks that students should be evaluated.
Carlson thinks that every teacher wants every student to achieve, and feels it's part of their job. He doesn't think a teacher should be punished for getting a bad student.
HOW WOULD YOU GET CONTRACTS SETTLED?
Candidates all stressed that sitting down and talking it out with the negotiating groups would settle the contracts. As part of the district's current negotiating team, Rodriguez declined to answer.
IF YOU COULD ADD TO OR ENHANCE THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM, WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
Carlson would enhance the basics rather than add anything.
Winsor believes the district already offers a wide variety of programs, but would enhance what it current has. She'd also like to see programs such as band that were cut last year added back in.
Hazard would add back what has been cut, and would add more AP classes.
Polzin thinks the district has a good variety of classes already, and would enhance the basic programs like math, reading and English.
Hawkins would make sure that physical education isn't dropped once students reach high school. He pointed out he's also involved in a program at the middle school called "Real Men Read," as well as a skateboarding program where kids walk one mile to the park.
Nelson agreed that she'd like to bring back the music programs that were cut. She'd also like to offer more foreign language classes at the elementary level.
Rodriguez would like to enhance math and science classes. He pointed out that 30% of all Minnesota graduates require remedial classes in math and science when they reach college.

Isanti candidates discuss issues

Mayoral, city council and county commissioner candidates speak about what they would do if elected this November.

During two-minute increments, those who hope to represent the city of Isanti outlined their positions on a variety of issues during a forum on Thursday night, Oct. 9, 2008 at the Isanti Middle School.
Things discussed included top goals, transportation, motocross tracks, economic development, amenities and foreclosed properties.
Attending the forum were mayoral candidates George Wimmer and Sue Larson; city council candidates Jeff Kolb and Ross Lorsiner; Isanti Commissioner District 3 candidates Alan Duff and Gail Genin; and Isanti Commissioner District 4 candidate Jaysen Guthmueller.
Absent were city council candidates Jim Kennedy and Steve Rask, as well as Isanti County Commissioner District 4 candidate Kurt Daudt.
Moderating the event was Jackie Moen. The forum was organized by the Isanti Area Chamber of Commerce.
QUESTION 1: WHAT ARE YOUR TOP GOALS
To start the evening off, candidates outlined their top goals if elected.
Sue Larson's goals center around the current economic situation. She stressed increasing the city's tax base, improving transportation access, and making sure the city has skilled workers.
George Wimmer would begin by taking a fresh look at the goals he set two years ago when first elected as mayor. He would then work to implement the financial plan recently adopted by the council. He is also focused on bringing a rail spur into the city.
Ross Lorinser's first goal is to lower taxes. "We need to make sure we do not waste taxpayer money," he said, referring to projects in the past, such as plans to construct a new liquor store, that he believes did waste money. His second step would be to attract new business. His third goal would to simply be a good steward of the city.
Jeff Kolb's top goal is safety. "It doesn't do any good to have a good budget if we can't keep our people safe," he said. He referred to building a new fire sub-station, and to constructing sidewalks along all of County Road 5. He would also seek to continue to lower spending, and focus on an aggressive economic development marketing plan.
Alan Duff said that he has set his top three goals after talking to local residents. Number one is to reduce the tax burden. He referenced the fact that while he's served on the Isanti City Council the tax burden has been reduced by 14%. He also hopes to establish a county rail industrial park to bring in higher paying jobs. Additionally, he will work to preserve open space. He advocated taking a hard look at the newly proposed county comprehensive plan. "We're not going in the right direction," said Duff.
Gail Genin opened by stating, "I did not come into this with any set agenda." What she's heard from people is they don't expect to see taxes go down, but they'd like to hold the line on taxes. She's heard that people want more county parks. And she believes that the proposed county comprehensive plan, which she helped develop, is a good compromise between those who want to develop in higher densities and those that want to preserve open space.
Jaysen Guthmueller has set reducing taxes as his number one goal, and pointed out he has listed 53 cost-saving ideas on his web site. "We've had four straight years of increases," said Guthmueller. He would like to see more businesses in the county, as they require fewer services than residential developments do. Additionally, he would strive for an open and transparent government and suggested that the county board meetings should be recorded.
QUESTION 2: DESCRIBE PLAN FOR CREATING NEW JOBS IN AREA
Kolb would continue to help new businesses with the tools the city already has in place.
Lorinser would also offer incentives in order to get and keep businesses in Isanti.
Wimmer pointed out that the city has dramatically increased its tax base in the past few years, and pointed to EverCat as one example. "We're working on a marketing plan," he added. He would also not forget the city's existing businesses.
Larson pointed out that she's been involved in a regional approach to supporting job growth. "I firmly believe we need a knowledgeable workforce," she said.
Duff noted, "It definitely starts with good marketing." He added, "I think we need to continue what we've been doing in the city of Isanti." He believes the county should stress the assets of the area: reasonably priced land, rail capacity and a phenomenal school district.
Genin stressed that the Isanti County Economic Development Authority work cooperatively with the cities of Braham, Isanti and Cambridge to bring in new businesses. She also sees growth happening in other areas that have traditionally been business centers, such as Dalbo, Grandy and Bradford.
"Right now there is competition between these towns. We need to turn that into partnerships," said Guthmueller.
QUESTION 3: TRANSPORTATION
Genin proposed establishing a ride share program. This would deal with the issue she sees of people commuting to the Twin Cities for work. Aside from that, Genin does not think there is a transportation problem within the county.
Duff, too, pointed to the large number of commuters in the county. "Eighty percent of our residents travel to the Twin Cities to work," he said. "I don't see MnDOT doing anything to fix the problem." He embraces commuter rail and is working to make that a reality "sooner rather than later." He pointed out that the city of Isanti has set aside $25,000 for a park and ride, and hopes to see a location designated soon.
Guthmueller supports park and rides, as well as commuter rail. To accomplish those, he foresees partnering with the state and federal government for funds. "Without their help we're not going to get very far," said Guthmueller.
From her years serving on the Highway 65 Task Force, Larson has become a believer in access management. But for that to work along Highway 65 the frontage and backage roads need to be developed. Larson worries about the traffic back-ups that are beginning to occur along County Road 5. "I believe that our County Road 5 is a baby 95," said Larson. She is excited about the prospect of commuter rail, passenger rail and industrial rail.
Wimmer noted that rail will help alleviate the burden on the roadways, as will park and ride areas. He agreed that east-west traffic is also becoming an issue. "These roads are not designed for this type of traffic," he said. The funding will need to come from state and federal sources, he believes. To get this, how funding is distributed will need to be looked at. Wimmer referenced the issues Anoka County has had with Highway 65, which it is now trying to fix with an overpass at 242. He predicted that in 20 years, the same will be done at County Road 5. "We keep making the same mistakes. We have to stop that," Wimmer said.
As an Anoka County Sheriff Deputy, Lorinser has seen firsthand how dangerous Highway 65 is. "You add rail. You add busing. That's going to alleviate some of the problems on 65," he said. He advocated joining with other counties and groups to pull together funding.
As a former commuter himself, Kolb advocates turning Highway 65 into a six-land interstate from Blaine to Cambridge. He noted that he's seen such things done in other cities, like Atlanta and Toronto. "They must know something we don't," he said. Kolb admitted he's not a big supporter of commuter rail, but if it does happen, he promised to push for a station in Isanti. He is also in favor of park and rides so that residents can hop aboard a bus to get to Minneapolis.
QUESTION 4: WHAT IS YOUR MAIN ROLE AS AN ELECTED OFFICIAL?
"It is to listen to what people's concerns are," said Lorinser.
"We really are just citizens of the community who step up and help lead the community in a better direction," said Kolb. He also believes elected officials should always be open to new ideas.
"The major role is to try to lay out some type of agenda for the city," said Wimmer.
"You want to be that cheerleader for the city," said Larson. "You want to be approachable to the citizens. You want to be accessible to city staff. You want to be open minded."
Duff quoted the League of Minnesota Cities and Association of Minnesota Counties. "Be responsible for health, safety and welfare of your constituents." He would like to start a county e-newsletter; intends to hold regular meetings with District 3 residents and businesses; and make all county meetings available on the web site.
Genin stated, "I feel it is our responsibility to dedicate time to that position, listen and respond."
"We should be an advocate of the taxpayers, not private interests," said Guthmueller. "I think we need to re-establish trust in public officials."
QUESTION 5:
Each group of candidates was asked separate questions at the end.
HOW SHOULD ISANTI HANDLE FORECLOSED PROPERTIES?
Wimmer noted that in Isanti the city decided to shut off water and utilities. The police department is notified to watch the property, and the city mows the lawns to keep weeds down. The city is also part of a local coalition working to get help to people nearing foreclosure.
Larson reiterated much of what Wimmer said, stressing public health and safety. She is in favor of making sure the foreclosures still look nice to avoid driving down property values.
SHOULD ISANTI PURSUE A LIBRARY AND/OR POOL/WATER PARK?
Kolb noted that he is on the committee looking into this. "I'd love to see a project like this come to our community, but we can't by raising our taxes," he said.
Lorinser would also like the amenities, but won't raise taxes to add them. However, he would give residents the option of raising taxes to cover the projects by placing it on the ballot.
SHOULD THERE BE REGULATIONS ON MOTOCROSS TRACKS?
Guthmueller noted that he hasn't researched this issue and is not sure of how big the problem is. He said he leans towards making sure these tracks don't infringe on the rights of others.
Genin noted she has heard complaints against the tracks but also heard from those in favor of them. "We need some regulation," she said.
Duff noted that this is a big issue. "Basically this requires good planning," he pointed out. He advocates keeping the tracks away from areas where density is high.

Man shoots self with new rifle

North Branch man injured while sitting alone in a tree stand.

A North Branch man accidently shot himself in the knee while sitting in a tree stand on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2008.
According to the North Branch Police Department, the 31-year-old was on his own property off Elmcrest Avenue with a newly acquired rifle hunting under the two-day early anterless season.
Exactly how the man was shot is not yet clear, but he was shot with a .223 round through the left knee while alone in a tree stand.
He was transported to Fairview Lakes Regional Medical Center around 5 p.m. and then flown to North Memorial Medical Center for trauma care.
His name had not been released at press time while the investigation progresses.

Body found along Isanti County Road 3

Minneapolis man discovered in the ditch next to his Jeep

The body of a Minneapolis man was discovered in Isanti County on Sunday, Oct. 12 shortly after 10 a.m.
According to the Isanti County Sheriff's Department, the body of 56-year-old Steven Richard Johnson, was found several feet away from a Jeep Cherokee. The vehicle, which was lying on its side, was registered to Johnson. Two dogs were still inside. No one else was around.
The incident occurred along Polk Street Northeast just south of County Road 3. According to Chief Deputy Russ Monson, it appeared that the man lost control while going around the curve and went off the road.
It is being treated as a fatal accident, and is still under investigation at this time. The preliminary autopsy report will likely be finished on Tuesday.
It is not yet known when the crash occurred or how long the man was there.
Neither of the two dogs were injured.