Minnesota and North Dakota Voter's Guide

Forum Communications Co., in collaboration with the League of Women Voters of Minnesota and of North Dakota, is providing this voter guide to help keep you informed ahead of the 2024 election.

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Voter Guide

Willmar City Council Member Ward 2

As local legislators who sometimes have executive power, council members can propose ordinances, set administrative policy, and authorize the budget proposed by the mayor. They oversee all city activities, including city services, programs, licensing, and public safety. Mayoral appointments to city government typically require council approval.Voting in local elections is important - learn more here: Why Vote for City Council

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  • Candidate picture

    Stephen Douglas Gardner
    (NP)

Biographical Information

Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)

If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)

How do you plan to engage with and represent all members of our diverse community?(500 characters)

What steps will you take to ensure transparency and accountability in city government? (500 characters)

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Campaign Website http://www.instagram.com/stephen_d_gardner
Contact Phone 3202959059
Campaign Email 1sgstevegardner@gmail.com
I have spent my entire adult life in service to the nation, state, and community. I retired from the Army in 2008 and went to work for a local private business. During that time I have volunteered in ways that help to make our community better. Whether it be as the project manger for the Flags of Honor Memorial renovation, a member of the Celebrate Light committee, or Chair of the Board for the Willmar Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, I have always strived to make Willmar the best it can be. The future of Willmar is bright. I believe I have the skills and vision necessary to represent the people of Ward 2 as we work to drive the city forward.
My top three priorities are: 1. Fiscal responsibility. We must always remember our funds are derived from the taxpayer and are to be used responsibly. 2. Economic Development and Housing. These two areas are closely related. We can help to create jobs, but without housing for the workforce, employers will struggle to fill open positions. 3. Infrastructure. Past city councils have put us in a hole in terms of needed repairs. We need to get that figured out in a responsible way.
The surest way to engage with and represent all members of our community is to be present and listen to their needs. Elected officials should look for opportunities and events within the community to get out and interact directly with their constituents. I plan to do just that. This can come in the form of community forums or invitations from civic organizations or private business. I will show up, listen, and do what I can to meet their needs.
Don't lie, cheat, or steal. These are simple words that have had a profound impact on my life. I try to live my life by this simple mantra and these words will serve as the backbone of my time on the City Council. I expect voters and constituents to hold me and others accountable to these ideals.
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The League of Women Voters of Minnesota and North Dakota crafted the questions sent to the candidates in the Spring of 2024. They reached out to candidates based on contact information in their public candidate filings. Candidates with email addresses were invited and reminded with emails. Candidates with only mailing addresses were sent a letter. Candidates with phone numbers received a phone call as well.

Candidate responses are published as they responded and have not been edited, except when responses were longer than the given character limit. In those cases, the responses are truncated.

VOTE411 is brought to you by the League of Women Voters Education Fund and League of Women Voters of Minnesota Education Fund. The League of Women Voters does not support or oppose any political party or candidate for office.