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.

  • Learn where candidates running for office in your community stand on the issues.
  • Build your ballot before voting. Print or email the information to use as a reference when you actually vote.

We do not save your information; it will be lost when you leave this page. Only candidates that appear on your ballot will be listed. Additional information may be available for your area so be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page for other voters’ guides.

Starbuck City Mayor

The mayor is usually the head of the city and may represent the city in front of other government bodies. They also can preside at council meetings and appoint city workers. A mayor usually has a role in proposing a city budget which influences services provided to residents and can veto ordinances proposed by the city council.Voting in local elections is important - learn more here: Why Vote for Mayor

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Cody Blevins
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Jeffrey Kleven
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Gary Elmer Swenson
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Luke Wilde
    (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)

If elected, what strategies will you use to ensure transparency, accountability and ethical conduct in city government under your leadership? (500 characters)

How will you engage with residents to solicit feedback, involve them in decision-making processes, and ensure their voices are heard? (500 characters)

How will you approach public safety and community policing to ensure the well-being of all residents? (500 characters)

Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Candidate response is not yet available.
Contact Phone 3202198492
I bring a deep understanding of our community’s unique challenges and strengths. Having lived and worked here for my entire adult life, I know the value of hard work and dedication. I have a proven track record of collaborating with local organizations and residents to drive positive change. My commitment to fostering economic growth while preserving our rural heritage sets me apart. I prioritize accessibility and open communication, ensuring that every resident feels represented. With a passion for community service and a vision for a sustainable future, I am ready to lead our town with integrity and accountability, putting our needs first.
My top three priorities will be: 1) Strengthening our local economy by supporting small businesses and attracting new opportunities. 2) Improving infrastructure, including roads and internet access, which are vital for both safety and connectivity in our rural area. 3) Enhancing community services, such as healthcare and education, to provide all residents with the support they need to thrive. These priorities will create a sustainable community that meets the needs of all our citizens.
I will participate in regular town hall meetings, where residents can voice concerns and ask questions directly. Establishing an online portal will allow easy access to city documents and decision-making processes. Additionally, I will ensure that all city council meetings are open and accessible. These steps will cultivate trust and ensure that our government operates with integrity.
I will create a resident advisory board that reflects our community’s diversity, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table. Regular surveys will allow residents to share their opinions on key issues. I will also utilize social media and community events to reach a broader audience. By prioritizing direct communication and being approachable, I will foster an environment where residents feel valued and empowered to participate in decision-making, ensuring their voices shape our community's future
I believe in building strong relationships between law enforcement and the community. I will promote community policing initiatives that encourage officers to engage with residents in non-enforcement capacities, fostering trust and cooperation. I will advocate for training programs focusing on de-escalation and cultural competency. By prioritizing prevention and community involvement, we can ensure a safer environment for all our residents.

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.