Jourdain challenges incumbent Prince in Bemidji's mayoral race
BY DALTYN LOFSTROM
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — Daniel Jourdain will challenge incumbent Jorge Prince in Bemidji’s mayoral race at the Nov. 5 general election.
After the pair made it through the Aug. 13 primary election, Jourdain had announced in a since-deleted Facebook post that he was dropping out of the race. Since then, he has restarted his campaign and reentered the race.
The Pioneer reached out to Jourdain for more details on his decision to reenter the race but did not receive a response.
Jorge Prince
Jorge Prince, 53, has served as Bemidji mayor since 2020. He was motivated to pursue a second term upon recognizing
challenges that the city continues to face along with opportunities for improvement.
“As a council we have achieved many wins on behalf of our citizens including securing millions of dollars in outside funding for our city, navigating our city out of the Covid-19 pandemic, securing clean water in our city for generations to come and strengthening relationships,” Prince said. “However, I know there is still much work to do.”
If reelected, Prince hopes to address affordable housing, crime, mental health, addiction and inflationary concerns. Collaboration between city government, businesses, community organizations and citizens will be paramount in overcoming these issues, he noted.
"The issues facing our city are complex as they are intertwined and impacted by the disproportionate level of poverty in our
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
community," he added. "These challenges require all of us to be engaged."
Prince said he will advocate for low property taxes, putting forth regulations to encourage housing developers to build affordable homes in the area, and making investments in Bemidji’s police, fire and legal departments.
Daniel Jourdain
Daniel Jourdain, 39, previously served as an At-Large City Councilor following a February 2021special election until the end of 2022. Jourdain entered the mayoral race with some encouragement from community members.
“Too often, important decisions are being put off, and I believe I have the capacity to make hard decisions and encourage others to work together,” Jourdain said. “There are a number of tough decisions about which projects make sense for the city, and I believe
there is not currently enough being done to support and encourage the staff who do the work.”
Jourdain emphasized partnership and teamwork as two ingredients to address issues that Bemidji faces. Among Jourdain’s top concerns are affordable housing, wages, reliable access to transportation, crime and substance abuse.
“We need to support public safety initiatives and find ways to encourage housing development to replace aging housing stock,” he added. “Strategic planning, economic development and evaluating land use needs will also be major issues for the city in the coming years.”
Jourdain said he would provide leadership by promoting citizen involvement and working toward long-term planning for the city’s future.
JORGE PRINCE
AGE: 53
RESIDENCE: Has lived in Bemidji for 48 years
EDUCATION: Has a bachelor's degree in accounting from BSU and Economic Development Finance Professional certification through the National Development Council
OCCUPATION: Chief financial officer and partner with LaValley Industries, LVI Supply, Evolve Creative, GreenEdge and IdeaWorks
DANIEL JOURDAIN
AGE: 39
RESIDENCE: Has lived in Bemidji for 10 years
EDUCATION: Has an associates degree in law enforcement
OCCUPATION: Cultural coordinator at the New Day Center
VOTE NOVEMBER 5TH
BEMIDJI CITY COUNCIL WARD 1
Fiskevold Gould, Johnson to face off in Ward 1 race
BY CARLEY SWANSON-GARRO
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — Incumbent Bemidji City Councilors
Gwenia Fiskevold Gould and Ron Johnson are running head-to-head for the Ward 1 seat on the council.
Ron Johnson
Ron Johnson, 74, is the current council representative for Ward 3, a position he is unable to run for again due to the redistricting in 2022.
Johnson has represented Ward 3 since 2000 and his current term ends this year.
He retired in 2023 from Lakeland PBS and previously served 10 years in the Minnesota Army National Guard.
During his time on the council, Johnson has served on several committees and as president of the board of directors for both the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities and the League of Minnesota Cities.
Johnson said he wants to continue to be involved in city council because “Bemidji is experiencing tremendous growth and with that growth comes many opportunities and also some challenges.”
If elected, he will focus on three areas: improving public safety by fully funding the city’s police and fire departments, working with community
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
RON JOHNSON
AGE: 74
RESIDENCE: Lifelong Bemidji resident
EDUCATION: Has a bachelor's degree from BSU and degrees from Alexandria Technical College and Brown College in Minneapolis
OCCUPATION: Retired Promotions and Design Manager at Lakeland PBS
partners to address Bemidji’s housing shortage and growing Bemidji’s economy to provide better-paying jobs.
As a homeowner in Bemidji, Johnson said he is committed to keeping local property taxes in check and believes these goals can be accomplished without increasing property taxes.
“I am extremely proud of the many accomplishments I have helped the council achieve during my nearly 24 years on the Bemidji
GWENIA FISKEVOLD GOULD
AGE: 36
RESIDENCE: Has lived in Bemidji for 5 years
EDUCATION: Has a bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
OCCUPATION: Director of Annual Giving at the Bemidji State University Alumni and Foundation
City Council,” Johnson said. “I believe I have the leadership skills, experience, connections and ‘common sense’ to continue moving Bemidji in a positive direction.”
Gwenia Fiskevold Gould
Gwenia Fiskevold Gould, 36, is the Ward 1 incumbent, having won the seat on the city council in a special election in April 2023. She is the Director of Annual Giving at BSU and decided to run for city council because she believes
it is crucial to step up if you have something to offer your community.
"With my background in community engagement and fresh perspective, I saw an opportunity to bring my collaborative working style and offer a new generation of leadership," Fiskevold Gould said.
She currently serves as the council representative for the Bemidji Parks and Recreation Commission and the Community and Police Advisory Board, and is on the Bemidji Area United Way Investment Cabinet.
Fiskevold Gould believes the two main issues facing the city of Bemidji are public safety and housing.
"As a renter who would like to buy a home in this neighborhood, I know how challenging it is for anyone of any income level to find homes available," she said.
To address these issues, Fiskevold Gould wants to see the council bring in more state and federal funding to relieve the tax burden on its residents.
"In my first year and a half on the council, we have begun addressing our housing shortage by approving workforce housing and a senior living cooperative, updated our rental ordinances and increased funding to build retention in our police department, but there is still more work to be done," Fiskevold Gould said.
BEMIDJI CITY COUNCIL WARD 3
Newcomers Dickinson, Carter running for Ward 3
BY CHARLEY GILBERT
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — For the first time in years, Ward 3 will have a new face after the general election with newcomers Mark Dickinson and Katie Carter running for the seat on the Bemidji City Council.
Due to the redistricting that took place in 2022, current Ward 3 Councilor Ron Johnson is unable to run for the seat and is instead running for the Ward 1 position.
Mark Dickinson
Mark Dickinson, 65, is a lifelong Bemidji resident, a graduate of Bemidji High School and BSU with a degree in business. He has been a full-time real estate agent and broker since 1984 and has been the owner of Century 21 Dickinson Realtors since 1998.
“The reason I am running for the city council is that I love our town and area,” Dickinson said. “It’s time for me to step up and help make the decisions needed to keep our community moving in a positive direction.”
Dickinson wants to address his concerns for Bemidji by keeping the city a welcoming place for families and businesses.
“My main concerns for our city are keeping the residents safe, making Bemidji an inviting environment for families and businesses to want to live and operate here, maintaining our infrastructure, and operating within our means,” Dickinson said.
Dickinson has several ideas in the works to combat these issues, including competitive compensation for public safety workers,
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
MARK DICKINSON
AGE: 65
RESIDENCE: Born and raised in Bemidji
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in business from BSU
OCCUPATION: Realtor and owner of Century 21 Dickinson Realtors
KATIE CARTER
AGE: 52
RESIDENCE: Has lived in Bemidji for 20 years
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degrees in psychology and English, and master's in English from BSU
OCCUPATION: Writer, podcast editor and consultant
removing barriers to development in Bemidji and supporting initiatives in the community without overspending.
“We need to be supportive of activities and initiatives in our community, but mindful that the city is not able to financially support everything, especially when there are private sector organizations, individuals, and companies that are better able and more efficient at providing those services,” Dickinson said.
Katie Carter
Carter, 52, is a writer, podcast editor and consultant; having lived in Bemidji since 2004, she said she is ready to give back to the community and address every problem with solution-driven curiosity.
If elected, Carter’s top priorities would be addressing housing affordability,
employment wages and financial losses from Sanford Health, Bemidji State and other institutions.
“I will address issues with a solution-driven curiosity, compassion and an openness to wisdom, lessons and ideas that will ensure this brilliant community continues to shine — economically and culturally,” she said.
Carter’s desire to run for city council stems from her upbringing and her growing deep love and understanding of the Bemidji community.
“As the daughter of parents highly engaged in civic progress, my dad served as county commissioner for several years and my mother, president of the chamber of commerce in my hometown, the notion of engagement that matters was woven into the fabric of my life,” Carter said.
VOTE NOVEMBER 5TH
BEMIDJI CITY COUNCIL WARD 5
Incumbent Eaton to face Batchelder in race for Ward 5
BY ASHLEY MCKENZIE
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — In the race for Bemidji City Council’s Ward 5 seat, incumbent Lynn Eaton will face off against local business owner Bill Batchelder on Nov. 5.
Lynn Eaton
Lynn Eaton, 73, has been a resident of Bemidji since 1985 and was elected to the council in February 2022 after a special election was needed to fill the vacancy left by Nancy Erickson.
In that election, Eaton received nearly 53% of the votes beating out Bill Batchelder and three other candidates.
Eaton, a retired district engineer for the Minnesota Department of Transportation, emphasized his commitment to moving forward with initiatives set in motion during his current term.
"I am anxious for another term in office because it feels like we have been getting things ready for the last two years," Eaton said. "Things like hiring a new city manager, dissolving the Joint Planning Board, new management of the Sanford Center, and the trauma of shuttering some significant housing facilities — to name a few.
"With these matters somewhat behind us, we can now look forward to getting the Rail Corridor projects underway, addressing our housing needs, finding ways to finance our capital improvements, and making our community the best it can possibly be."
Eaton's goals include ensuring the city's fiscal responsibility, improving the financial performance of the Sanford Center, and supporting business growth while maintaining essential public infrastructure.
"We need to spur business growth, housing availability and sound public works without burdening the community residents," Eaton said.
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
LYNN EATON
AGE: 73
RESIDENCE: Lived in Bemidji for nearly 40 years
BILL BATCHELDER
AGE: 64
RESIDENCE: Lifelong Bemidji resident
Eaton has also been an active member of several community organizations, including hockey, soccer and the parochial school board.
Bill Batchelder
Bill Batchelder, 64, is the owner of Bemidji Woolen Mills and is making his second bid for the Ward 5 seat motivated by a desire to give back to the community that has shaped him.
"I have been blessed by an incredible life of real-world experiences that I would like to share with our beautiful community," Batchelder said. "I feel it is my turn to give back."
Batchelder has deep roots in Bemidji and is proud to continue his family’s legacy through Bemidji Woolen Mills, which he says has been a pillar of the local business community for generations.
For Batchelder, public safety is the most pressing issue facing Bemidji. To address this, he feels the best solution would be to "work as a team with all community members and
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from UND and master's degree in Management of Technology from the University of Minnesota
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from BSU
OCCUPATION: Owner of Bemidji Woolen Mills
OCCUPATION: Retired from Minnesota Department of Transportation
partners to take a hands-on approach with the eyes and ears of our community to support and reinforce our public safety department," Batchelder said.
In addition to public safety, Batchelder is focused on ensuring transparent city development and financial discipline and says he supports “promoting responsible development and job opportunity for Bemidji's future.”
Batchelder also expressed concern over the rapid increase in the city's levy, emphasizing his commitment to fiscal responsibility and holding the line on levy spending.
His platform also emphasizes being a voice for Ward 5 residents by "ensuring your concerns and ideas are heard at city hall."
Batchelder hopes to contribute his knowledge and leadership skills to serve Bemidji in a new way. "An 'all for one, one for all' approach," he left off.
VOTE NOVEMBER 5TH
Incumbent Gaasvig running unopposed for District 1 seat
BY DENNIS DOEDEN
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — Incumbent Craig Gaasvig is running unopposed for the District 1 seat on the Beltrami County Board.
Gaasvig, 55, works as a regional account manager at North Country Business Products.
He has served on the county board since 2019. In 2022, he defeated challenger Mark Morrissey by a vote of 2,377 to 1,670.
Prior to his time on the county board, Gaasvig was a supervisor on the Port Hope Township Board for 12 years. He is an active member of several local boards and
committees, including the Cass Lake Rural Fire Association, Blackduck Emergency Medical Services Tri-County Board, the Headwaters One Watershed One Plan Committee and the Executive Committee of the Headwaters Regional Development Commission.
He also is serving his third term as a District 4 Director on Beltrami Electric Cooperative’s board of directors.
He and his wife Karen have two sons and recently welcomed a grandson.
Gaasvig’s focus on the county level includes making sure the jail project stays on budget and on schedule, and that the board makes
common sense decisions that are in the best interest of the citizens of Beltrami County.
He said the top issue facing the Beltrami County Board in the coming year is dealing with out-of-control inflation and the corresponding effect it is having on the county budget. He also said unfunded state mandates are another cause for the ballooning budget.
Gaasvig said the board’s most impactful decisions during his most recent term were taking extra time and effort to thoroughly study the options for the new county jail, informing the people of Beltrami County of options, and then having the people vote overwhelmingly to support the new jail financing with a local sales tax.
EDUCATION: Mathematics degree and secondary education teaching license from BSU
OCCUPATION: Regional sales manager for North Country Business Products
BELTRAMI COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 2
Incumbent Gould faces Bommersbach in District 2 race
BY CHARLEY GILBERT
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — Incumbent Joe Gould and Adam Bommersbach will face off to represent District 2 on the Beltrami County Board in the Nov. 5 general election.
Joe Gould
Incumbent Joe Gould, 37, was first elected to the county board in 2022 and is a high school social studies teacher for Cass Lake-Bena Public Schools.
Gould has been an active member of the community, serving on several boards, including the Bemidji Area Boys and Girls Club and the now-dissolved Greater Bemidji Area Joint Planning Commission.
“I am running to be a voice for renters, homeowners and our youth,” Gould said. “These are still challenging times for our country. We need to address disparities and look towards the future.”
He sees three top issues facing Beltrami County: housing, child care and mental health.
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
JOE GOULD
AGE: 37
RESIDENCE: Has lived in Bemidji for 11 years
EDUCATION: Master's degree in public administration from BSU
OCCUPATION: High school social studies teacher
“Public service is in my blood,” Gould said. “I have over 17 years of state and local government experience. I will continue to work hard for the people of Bemidji and Beltrami County.”
BELTRAMI COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 3
Howe, Winger competing for District 3 seat
ADAM BOMMERSBACH
AGE: 35
RESIDENCE: Has lived in the Bemidji area for 11 years
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry and health science from Valley City State University
OCCUPATION: Registered Environmental Health Specialist employed by the Minnesota Department of Health
Gould lives in Bemidji with his wife, Gwenia who currently serves on the Bemidji City Council, and their dog Coya.
Adam Bommersbach
Adam Bommersbach, 35, graduated from Valley City State University with three
bachelor’s degrees in biology, chemistry and health science. He is currently a registered health specialist by the Minnesota Department of Health conducting food, pool and lodging inspections.
Bommersbach has lived in Bemidji since 2013 with his wife and three children. He previously ran for the position in 2022 but didn't make it past the primary election.
“It is my belief that Beltrami County is a great place to live, raise a family, start a business and pursue boundless opportunities,” Bommersbach said. “Our area also faces great challenges. … I feel a deep call to serve this community that I care so much about.”
He sees the issues impacting the county as complex and in need of a multifaceted approach.
“Beltrami County faces many complex issues that impact their ability to serve residents effectively,” Bommersbach said. ”The top issues include budget constraints and a limited tax base, which limits the funding availability for essential services like public safety, mental health care and infrastructure maintenance."
BY ALEX FABER
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — District 3 will have a new commissioner after the general election this November as Richard Anderson, the district’s current commissioner, did not file for reelection.
Newcomers Kari Howe and Scott Winger are on the ballot as District 3’s two candidates for the Beltrami County Board.
Scott Winger
Scott Winger was born and raised in the Bemidji area, graduated from Bemidji High School and has worked in a variety of career fields in his 62 years, including over 21 years for the Beltrami County Sheriff’s office.
He has worked as a mechanic and is currently the area manager for a nonemergency medical transportation company. He is also an instructor for Minnesota’s Specialized Transportation Services and owner/CEO of Professional Hypnosis Services LLC.
Winger previously ran against Richard Anderson for Beltrami County Commissioner 13 years ago. Though he lost that race, Winger says running for the position again has always been on his mind and Anderson’s recent retirement has inspired him to give it another shot.
“I have always cared about Beltrami County and have done what I can to make it a better place by doing volunteer work for many youth activities, as well as my service with the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office,” Winger said.
Winger believes taxes, public safety and roads are all top issues facing the county.
He believes reducing the increase in taxes can be done by reducing spending, seeking more assistance from the state and federal government and working to increase industry, which “may need to
Beltrami County Commissioner District 3
I know many of you like me, and are tired of politicians telling us what they think we want to hear. I will tell it like it is because I want you to know what is really happening in our area. I appreciate your vote in the General Election this year!
What can we do to help reduce the crime rate? How can we improve mental health issues?
Work on repairing roads that need attention, including some that are in need of urgent care.
We must work on ways to stop the increase.
involvement
The State of Minnesota puts mandates on our County that we as taxpayers are forced to pay. I feel the State must provide the County with more assistance in these situations, and I intend to do what I can to help make that happen.
DISTRICT 3
From Page 7
involve incentives for businesses to move to our area.”
Winger wants to improve public safety by supporting law enforcement and fire departments across the county, specifically promoting volunteer organizations to provide assistance.
To improve county infrastructure, Winger proposes pushing for increased funding and assistance.
“I feel too much of our money goes to the roads in the Metro area and we need to fight hard to get their money to come to our community for our public safety and tourism,” Winger said.
Kari Howe
Kari Howe, 66, retired four years ago after working for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development for over 20 years. She had many roles in that position, with the primary goal of assisting business and industry in growing and expanding.
BELTRAMI COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 3
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
SCOTT WINGER
AGE: 62
RESIDENCE: Born and raised in the Bemidji area
EDUCATION: Has a law enforcement degree as well as multiple certifications
OCCUPATION: Area manager for a non-emergency medical transportation company, instructor for Minnesota's Specialized Transportation Services and owner of Professional Hypnosis Services
KARI HOWE
AGE: 66
RESIDENCE: Has lived in Beltrami County since 1978
EDUCATION: Attended four years of higher education
OCCUPATION: Retired from Minnesota DEED, former co-owner of Dunn Bros Coffee in Bemidji
Howe and her husband were also small business owners, running Dunn Brothers Coffee for 18 years, has lived in Bemidji Township since 1995 and in Beltrami County since 1978.
BELTRAMI COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 4
Newcomer Duresky looks to unseat
District 4 incumbent Sumner
BY DENNIS DOEDEN
The Bemidji
Pioneer
Now she wants to return to her role as a public servant, this time for Beltrami County.
“I feel some of the biggest (county) needs include mental health, public safety and safe
roads,” said Howe. “The county is working to address these issues and I would like to do my part to participate in creative solutions.”
Howe supports strong local programs — including programs specifically related to mental health — as a key to improving public safety.
"I also support any programs focusing on the challenge of recidivism and helping people return to the community from jail as successful citizens who contribute in a positive way to our neighborhoods," Howe said.
Due in large part to Beltrami County’s limited taxable land, Howe believes budgetary concerns are also a top priority.
“It is important to me if elected, to work to manage the balance of taxes and expenses to meet the needs of the county residents,” Howe said. “My husband and I were also small business owners for 18 years, so I understand what it takes to have a budget, and work to stay within it, while also understanding to expect the unexpected.”
BEMIDJI — Newcomer Frank Duresky is looking to unseat incumbent District 4 Commissioner Tim Sumner, who is currently serving his fourth term on the Beltrami County Board.
Tim Sumner
Sumner has been the District 4
representative on the board since 2012. He is a case manager at the Red Lake Homeless Shelter and studied at Northwest Technical College in Bemidji. He is also a member of Red Lake Nation.
DISTRICT 4: Page 9
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
TIM SUMNER
AGE: 40
RESIDENCE: Lifelong Beltrami County resident, lives in Red Lake
EDUCATION: Red Lake High School graduate, attended Northwest Technical College
OCCUPATION: Case manager at Red Lake Homeless Shelter
FRANK DURESKY
AGE: 60
RESIDENCE: Lives in Waskish
EDUCATION: Graduate of Kelliher High School
OCCUPATION: Farms with his son near Waskish
DISTRICT 4
From Page 8
Sumner, 40, won his fourth term in 2022, defeating Joe Neft by a margin of 1,459 to 1,050.
His work as a commissioner has included supporting road infrastructure, mental
health services and deciding the future of the Beltrami County Jail.
He did not respond to the Pioneer’s requests for more information.
Frank Duresky
Duresky, 60, is retired from 39 years in the floor covering business. He also formerly
owned a convenience store and is currently farming with his son in the Waskish area.
He has served on the Kelliher School Board for 20 years, 16 of those years as chairman. He also was recently elected to the Waskish Township Board as a supervisor and belongs to the Upper Red Lake Area Association.
BELTRAMI COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 5
“I feel I have strong leadership qualities and the ability to work with others to come up with solutions,” Duresky said. “I am sure Beltrami County has many issues they will be facing, the main ones for the residents of District 4 are taxes, roads, making sure our public lands and water stay public, and having representation in all the important committees that affect our area.”
Carlson unopposed for Beltrami County District 5 seat
BY DENNIS DOEDEN
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — John Carlson is unopposed in seeking his second term as District 5 representative on the Beltrami County Board of Commissioners.
Carlson, 71, was first elected to the county board in 2022. He moved to Bemidji in 1971 to attend BSU, where he earned a degree in business finance.
He worked as a certified management accountant and owned an insurance agency until 2017; he is currently semi-retired. Carlson lives with his wife in Bemidji, where their two children are also living and raising their families.
From 2011 to 2012 Carlson served in the Minnesota State Senate and remains proud of his time at the Capitol where he fostered consensus to get 28 pieces of legislation passed.
Carlson says the top issues facing Beltrami County in the coming year are completion of the new jail within budget, balancing the 2025 county budget while attempting to keep the levy below 7%, solving staffing shortages, improving roads and bridges through a five-year priority plan and addressing mental health issues in adults and children.
He said the board’s most impactful decisions during his first term were approving the jail project and a local option sales tax to fund the new jail, joint airport zoning revisions,
ABOUT THE CANDIDATE
AGE: 71
RESIDENCE: Has lived in Beltrami County since 1971
EDUCATION: Has a business finance degree from BSU
OCCUPATION: Semi-retired CFO for Bonded Lock of Bemidji and President of Tranquilla Consulting
establishing a Housing Trust Fund and an Opioid Settlement Fund Committee, and remodeling the Public Health space in the Community Services Center.
BEMIDJI SCHOOL BOARD
BY DALTYN LOFSTROM
The Bemidji Pioneer
6 candidates vying for 3 positions on school board
newcomers are vying for these spots on the board.
BEMIDJI — Three four-year positions for the Bemidji Area Schools Board of Education will be on the ballot at the Nov. 5 general election.
Following an Aug. 13 filing period deadline, six candidates including two incumbents, two former board members and two
Incumbent Justin Hoover is not seeking reelection.
Jack Aakhus
Jack Aakhus, 39, has nearly a decade of experience as a U.S. history and civics teacher, counselor for at-risk youth and a football coach. Come November, Aakhus
• I am passionate about providing quality public education.
• I am motivated by the best interests of all students.
• I listen to and create solutions that reflect and are respectful of diverse points of views.
hopes to add "school board member" to his resume.
"An educated citizenry benefits us all," Aakhus said. "I love this community and want to do my part to see it thrive by helping our students to achieve their full potential."
Aakhus has served on various school committees related to curriculum development, educational technology,
implementation of state standards and bullying among other topics. He hopes his experience will serve the district well as he seeks to resolve the district's $2.3 million deficit and address enrollment concerns.
"Many parents were alienated by decisions made during the COVID era," he added. "To bring those families back, confidence needs
SCHOOL BOARD: Page 10
Elect Todd Haugen for Bemidji School Board
My Priorities: Increase enrollment and end our budget deficit Improve school safety
student academic performance About Me:
• Bemidji resident for 49 years.
• BSU graduate.
• Appointed to the board in 2022 and spent 8 months on the board.
• Retired radio broadcaster (KB101 Morning Show) with 37 years of management experience.
JOHN CARLSON
BEMIDJI SCHOOL BOARD
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
JACK AAKHUS
AGE: 39
RESIDENCE: Bemidji
EDUCATION:
Has a master's from the University of Minnesota Duluth and a bachelor's from UND
OCCUPATION: Former counselor, social studies teacher and volunteer football coach for Bemidji Youth Football
TODD HAUGEN
AGE: 67
RESIDENCE: Bemidji
EDUCATION:
SCHOOL BOARD
From Page 9
to be restored in district leadership. I believe that having the right priorities will go a long way in restoring that confidence, thereby increasing enrollment."
Aakhus also noted plans to address academic achievement throughout the district.
"Over the past few years, proficiency in math, reading, and science has fallen dramatically in Bemidji and across Minnesota," Aakhus said. "I hope to achieve
Has a bachelor's degree from BSU
OCCUPATION: Retired radio broadcaster for KB101, current co-host of "Lakeland Currents"
NICOLE JARANSON
AGE: 38
RESIDENCE: Bemidji
EDUCATION:
Has two associate's degrees, pursuing a bachelor's degree
OCCUPATION: Registered nurse
CAROL L. JOHNSON
AGE: 66
RESIDENCE: Bemidji
EDUCATION: Attended Bemidji State University
OCCUPATION: Retired from Ken K. Thompson Jewelry, part-time cafeteria cashier for Sanford Health
an academic revival that reverses this trend by prioritizing resources toward academic opportunity, fostering parentteacher partnerships and galvanizing our community in support of our scholarly achievement."
Todd Haugen
Todd Haugen, 67, was temporarily appointed to the board in 2022 and felt compelled to run for a position after retiring from radio broadcasting.
“I’m running because I love kids and I believe in public education, especially the
way it’s done in the Bemidji School District,” Haugen said. “Our daughter, Savannah, graduated from BHS in 2022, and our younger daughter, Giselle, will graduate in 2027. We've had a great experience with this district, and our girls have had some fantastic teachers. But anything good can always be made better.”
Among several priorities, Haugen noted hopes for greater academic performance, increased school security, family involvement and an improved financial situation for the district if he is elected.
“Once families are involved with our district they’re more likely to stay involved, and we
definitely need to rebuild our enrollment to pre-COVID levels,” he added. “If we expand our enrollment, we can make more progress in closing our $2.3 million deficit.”
Haugen also wants to highlight the Bemidji Career Academies, adding, “This is an excellent program that can help our kids and help build the workforce that our growing community needs.”
Nicole Jaranson
Nicole Jaranson, 38, ran for a board position
SCHOOL BOARD: Page 11
BEMIDJI SCHOOL BOARD
SCHOOL BOARD
From Page 10
in 2022 and hopes to secure a spot once voters take to the polls this November.
"My children are my motivation," Jaranson said. "I want all of our students and staff to know they have a voice and that we as a board will listen to them. Our children and staff deserve better and we should give our children as many opportunities to thrive as possible."
Jaranson detailed her vision of a district in which students and staff feel supported, trusted and safe.
"I want all students and the whole community to be united within the district and continue to have a great school that we all can be proud of," she added.
Jaranson also emphasized her view of the role that schools should play in a child's education, adding, "Our schools should teach our children to take pride in their country and to restore freedom, fairness, excellence and love of America to our district's public schools. Our children deserve to think for themselves being given the knowledge and teachings to do so."
Carol L. Johnson
Carol L. Johnson, 66, served on the board from 2004 to 2022 and hopes to bring her prior experience back to the boardroom.
“I served with commitment and dedication in the past and will continue to do so in the future,” Johnson said about her prior board experience. “I support public education and I support Bemidji Area Schools. I support our exceptional staff, our academics, athletics, arts and extracurricular choices.”
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
JULIE LAITALA
AGE: 49
RESIDENCE: Bemidji
EDUCATION: Attended Bemidji State University
OCCUPATION: Lead ophthalmic assistant, owner of Revolution MMA Fitness
and transportation to our legislators,” Johnson added. “These two unfunded mandates negatively affect our district’s financial stability.”
Johnson noted her respect for Superintendent Jeremy Olson and his leadership as she emphasized the importance of working together with district stakeholders to achieve positive results.
Julie Laitala
Julie Laitala, 49, has served on the board since December 2022 and aims to serve for longer.
“I became a school board member to be a voice for the voiceless by representing as an honest community leader who cares about all student's well-being and achievements and to help our community understand the value of public education,” Laitala said. “I decided to run again because I believe every child is brilliant.”
ANN LONG VOELKNER
AGE: 65
RESIDENCE: Bemidji
EDUCATION: Has a bachelor's degree in forestry from Michigan Technological University
OCCUPATION: Walker District Ranger for the Chippewa National Forest
way. It's the way up, the way out, and it's the way people can succeed in this world, and our society needs it.”
As a 1994 BHS alumnus, Laitala expressed her pride in the district’s students, teachers and schools that she’s been able to serve the past two years.
Ann Long Voelkner
Ann Long Voelkner, 65, has served on the board since 2004 and most recently won
reelection in 2020.She has also served on the Minnesota School Board Association as well as the Minnesota and Regional Service Cooperative Boards.
"As a board member, my focus is on providing the best learning environment for students and staff," Long Voelkner said. "Achieving that goal is accomplished by listening to our diverse community, staff and students; balancing multiple viewpoints and applying sound governing principles with expectations of quality solutions."
Long Voelkner noted her adaptability and cohesiveness working alongside other board members and the superintendent who have switched out throughout the years.
"New ideas and perspectives are incredibly valuable," she added. "I am committed to learning new methods when needed, adapting changes where necessary and seeking to continuously improve."
Through collaboration, Long Voelkner noted her academic focus and plans to ensure that Bemidji Area Schools is a safe district.
"I will collaborate with others to support academic achievement and safe facilities," she said, "all within an environment that best suits learning."
With an extensive history of family members attending the district, Johnson hopes to increase enrollment, improve the district’s marketability and address funding shortfalls at the state level.
“I know from experience that we need to continue to bring our message of inadequate funding for special education
Laitala emphasized the importance of community in ensuring a child’s success and the role that the school board plays in supporting students and teachers.
“We need people willing to stand up, listen, to communicate effectively, to be lifelong learners, to have their voice and speak for the quietest voices, and to really have something to say about education,” she mentioned. “Education is the key. It's the
Vote Julie Laitala Bemidji School Board
◼ Faith & Family
◼ Pro Law Enforcement
◼ Pro Parental Rights & School Choice
◼ Major Tax Cuts & Less Regulations
◼ Pro 2nd Amendment
◼ Election Integrity & Voter ID
◼ Pro-Life
Duran, Olson facing off in Minnesota House 2A race
BY MADELYN HAASKEN The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — Republican Bidal Duran and Democratic-Farmer-Labor party challenger Reed Olson will face off on Nov. 5 for the Minnesota House 2A seat left open by Matt Grossell after he decided not to seek reelection.
Bidal Duran
Duran, a former law enforcement officer and member of the U.S. Marine Corps, hopes to focus on lowering taxes and crime rates.
"If elected, I will fight to reduce taxes by ensuring fiscal responsibility with everyone's tax dollars," he said. "I will make sure we support our local law enforcement officers and give them the necessary equipment to make their jobs easier."
Duran will also strive to "create a better environment for my children to grow up in," noting the importance of a strong education system.
Reed Olson
Reed Olson is the executive director of the Nameless Coalition for the Homeless and a small business owner in Bemidji. Olson also previously served as a Beltrami County Commissioner.
"After 10 years in local elected office, I have worked on the challenges facing our communities," he said. "I believe these issues require statewide solutions."
If elected, Olson expressed that he would prioritize creating more housing in the area.
"We need to look at burdensome regulations and overly restrictive zoning laws that impede the creation of more housing," he said.
He also noted the importance of increasing access to child care throughout the region.
"I support educating our children and not playing political games," he said. "It's concerning that only half of the children in Minnesota can read at grade level, so we must focus on improving education for our children to secure a better future."
He also expressed a need for more child care providers in the region and across the state.
"There is a significant shortage of daycare providers in Bemidji and throughout Minnesota," Duran said. "I aim to create policy changes that will encourage and empower new childcare providers and support existing ones."
"It is an economic imperative for the district that we create more child care," he said. "I will work with state and local officials, as well as the business community to find ways to increase our affordable and accessible child care."
Olson will also aim to create and improve mental health resources for people living in rural areas.
"We all know someone who is in need of mental health care, but have a difficult time accessing services," he said. "We need more psychiatrists and specialized nurses in our rural communities so that everyone has a chance to live their best life."
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
BIDAL DURAN
PARTY: Republican
AGE: 39
RESIDENCE: Has lived in the Bemidji area for 13 years
EDUCATION: Has a bachelor's from BSU, a master's in criminal justice leadership from Concordia and is currently seeking a Ph.D. in public management and leadership
OCCUPATION: Former law enforcement officer and member of the U.S. Marine Corps
REED OLSON
PARTY: Democrat
AGE: 48
RESIDENCE: Has lived in Bemidji for 15 years
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in history from UW-Madison
OCCUPATION: Small business owner and homeless shelter director
MINNESOTA HOUSE DISTRICT 2B
Bliss, Reyes compete for Minnesota House 2B seat
OfficialSampleDFLBallot
BY ASHLEY MCKENZIE
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — In the race for the Minnesota House District 2B seat, Republican incumbent Matt Bliss will face DFL challenger Michael Reyes in the upcoming Nov. 5 election.
Matt Bliss
Republican incumbent Matt Bliss was first elected to represent District 2B in the Minnesota House in 2022, after previously serving in 5A since 2016 prior to redistricting.
"I am proud of the work I have done representing the people of our district and (will) continue to bring our local voice and values to the table in St. Paul," he said.
Bliss grew up on a farm and later served in the U.S. Navy where he received training in communications and electronics. He now owns Bliss Point Resort on Cass Lake and has worked as an IT director for the Red Lake Nation.
During his time in office, Bliss has served as the minority lead on the Veteran and Military Affairs Committee, as well as sitting on the Children and Families Finance and Policy, and the Elections Finance and Policy Committees.
"We need to start by getting a grip on state finances," Bliss said. "At the same time, we need to continue to help veterans, support students and their families and defend our Second Amendment rights. I remain humbled by the continued support from
constituents and look forward to tackling our state's biggest challenges with them."
Michael Reyes
Michael Reyes, 40, is a lifelong resident and enrolled member of the Leech Lake Nation and currently works for the tribe in planning and development.
Reyes has a background in law enforcement, having worked for over 16 years with the Leech Lake Tribal Police as a chief dispatcher, drug prevention officer and Bureau of Indian Affairs data clerk. He is also a volunteer firefighter who has served for over 10 years with the Cass Lake Fire Department.
He has been actively involved in his community, serving on the Pike Bay Township Board and the Leech Lake Housing Board.
U.S.Senator
Reyes said one of his motivations for running was his "commitment to fight the battle against drugs." He also wants to address homelessness in the community.
"I am well aware of the need to provide new homes in our area to address this problem," Reyes said.
USRepresentative District8
If elected, Reyes stated he would prioritize putting the needs of the people first, saying, "I will make sound and fair decisions based on research and knowledge."
Reyes is married with five children and currently serves as an elected official in Pike Bay Township in Cass County.
OUR FREEDOM
KamalaD.Harris andTimWalz President andVice-President
Wedeserveleaderswhowillfightforour freedomsinnorthernMinnesota.
Weneed
U.S.Senator
AmyKlobuchar
StateRepresentative District2A
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
MATT BLISS
PARTY: Republican
AGE: 60
RESIDENCE: Pennington, Minn.
EDUCATION: Studied automechanics at a technical college and electronics and communications while in the U.S. Navy
OCCUPATION: Owner of Bliss Point Resort in Cass Lake and IT director for the Red Lake Nation
MICHAEL REYES
PARTY: Democrat
AGE: 40
RESIDENCE: Lifelong Cass Lake resident
StateRepresentative District2B
MichaelReyes
EDUCATION: High school diploma and EMS training
OCCUPATION: Planning and development for Leech Lake Band and Cass Lake volunteer firefighter
ECONOMICFREEDOM
tofindgood-payingpermanentjobswith benefits.
USRepresentative District8
StateRepresentative District2A
Weneed
StateRepresentative District2B
Wedeserveleaderswhowillfightforour freedomsinnorthernMinnesota. Weneed
FINANCIALFREEDOM togainaccesstoaffordablehousing. Andweneed
We deserve leaders who will fight for our freedoms in northern Minnesota. We need ECONOMIC FREEDOM to find good-paying permanent jobs with benefits. We need FINANCIAL FREEDOM to gain access to affordable housing. And we need
FINANCIALFREEDOM togainaccesstoaffordablehousing. Andweneed
PERSONALFREEDOM foreveryonetohaveaccesstohealthcare, includingreproductivehealthcare. Democratsarereadytofightforour freedomsinCongress.
OURFREEDOM DEMOCRAT
ECONOMICFREEDOM tofindgood-payingpermanentjobswith benefits. Weneed
PERSONALFREEDOM foreveryonetohaveaccesstohealthcare, includingreproductivehealthcare. Democratsarereadytofightforour freedomsinCongress. VotefortheDemocraticticketon Nov.5th!
VOTE
PERSONAL FREEDOM for everyone to have access to healthcare, including reproductive healthcare. Democrats are ready to fight for our freedoms.
VotefortheDemocraticticketon Nov.5th!
Tofindoutwhereyour votinglocationisorwhich districtyoulivein: pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us
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Vote for the Democratic ticket on Nov. 5th!
WHAT: Tofindoutwhatyourballot willlooklikeforyourvoting districtgoto: myballotmn.sos.mn.gov
VOTE DEMOCRAT
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Remember To VOTE REPUBLICAN
Schultz once again challenging Stauber in race for CD8
PIONEER STAFF REPORT
DULUTH — Incumbent U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber and challenger Jen Schultz will go head to head in the general election to represent Minnesota's 8th Congressional District.
Stauber, a three-term Republican from Hermantown, will again face the DFLnominated Schultz — a former state representative from Duluth — after the pair ran against each other in 2022 with Stauberdefeating Schultz by a 57.2%-42.8% margin.
Each candidate answered the following questions in their own words ahead of the primary election in August.
Pete Stauber
How do you view the state of the economy in northeastern Minnesota right now, and what can you do in Congress to support local job growth?
Joe Biden’s economy is crippling working families. Our costs of living are skyrocketing. Energy prices are through the roof. The American dream of homeownership for young families is virtually unattainable. We need to change course. We must put America first by building a pro-growth economy and enact an all-American energy policy that doesn’t rely on our adversaries. We must become critical mineral dominant by mining those minerals right here at home, generating an economic boom throughout the region, and doing it in an environmentally sound way, with union
labor. Mining is part of our past, present and future!
What should the federal government be doing to ensure public safety in our communities?
As a 23-year police officer, I am proud to be a foremost leader in Congress when it comes to keeping our communities safe. We are clearly at a crossroads in our nation between those defending law and order and standing and supporting our law enforcement, and those who are more interested in sending criminals back to the streets making our communities less safe. Unlike some of my congressional colleagues who continue calling to defund our law enforcement, I will do all I can to provide our police with the resources needed to keep our communities safe.
Do you support congressional action on abortion, birth control, in vitro fertilization or other reproductive health measures?
As the father of six beautiful children, including two who were adopted, I believe all life has value and should be protected. However, before we were blessed with our first child, my wife and I struggled to conceive. I support all families who are trying to have a child, whether that’s through natural birth, adoption, foster care or fertility treatment like IVF. I support congressional action on policies that protect
DISTRICT 8: Page 15
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
PETE STAUBER
PARTY: Republican
AGE: 58
RESIDENCE:
EDUCATION: Bachelor's in criminal justice from Lake Superior State University
OCCUPATION: Retired from 23-year police officer career
PUBLIC SERVICE: U.S. Congress, St. Louis County commissioner, Hermantown City Council member, Board member, United Day Activities Center and Managed Military Heroes Hockey camp
PARTY: Democrat
AGE: 53
RESIDENCE: Duluth
EDUCATION: Graduate degree from the University of Minnesota
OCCUPATION: Economist and educator
PUBLIC SERVICE: State legislator, 2015-2022; Great Lakes commissioner, 2015-2022
How Beltrami County ensures elections are safe and secure
BY ASHLEY MCKENZIE
The Bemidji Pioneer
BEMIDJI — As the 2024 general election approaches on Tuesday, Nov. 5, concerns over election security have been circulating in public conversations across the nation.
With Minnesota positioned as a potential swing state, understanding how the election process works has never been more important. Though the election process has layers of security built-in, misconceptions still circulate about voter fraud, ballot integrity and how secure the system really is.
To address these issues, Cassondra Knudson, deputy communications director for the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office, and Jodee Treat, auditortreasurer of Beltrami County, recently spoke about how elections are run at the local level. Their insights provide a closer look into the mechanics of voting in Minnesota and how the county ensures its elections are safe, secure and accurate.
Who gets to vote in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, voter eligibility is pretty clear-cut.
“To be eligible to vote in the U.S., you need to be a U.S. citizen, 18 years of age on Election Day and a resident of Minnesota for the last 20 days,” Treat explained.
She also noted that a law passed in 2023 expanded voting rights for felons.
“The law change now says if they are no longer incarcerated but are still serving out their felony, they are allowed to vote,” she added.
Regarding non-citizens, Treat explained that if voter registration goes through the certification process and it's found that someone who voted is not a citizen, it comes back to the county attorney's office and is processed as a felony charge.
Penalties for misrepresenting oneself as a U.S. citizen when registering to vote can result in fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment.
“There are very good checks and balances in place,” she noted, adding that the state’s systems cross-reference records to ensure that only eligible voters can participate. “If someone falsely claims citizenship or something like that ... it’s handled as a felony.”
Regarding absentee ballots and ballots mailed to deceased individuals, Treat noted that the Department of Health goes through all of its death records and sends them to the Secretary of State's office, they are then queued up to compare with whoever votes in Beltrami County.
“If the voter is deceased, the state system receives death records from the Department of Health and then puts them as a deceased voter,” she explained.
“The family could bring a death certificate into our office, and we could inactivate the voter's record that way.”
And, for those who change their name due to marriage or other reasons, the process prevents duplicate voting.
“When they come in to change their name, their old voter record becomes inactivated or changed to the new name,” Treat added.
Additionally, the state's system checks to confirm that the same individual isn’t registered under different names by checking birthdates for any matching voter’s name.
“Anyone that moves and puts in a permanent change of address with the post office, it triggers a challenge in our system,” Treat explained.
Even though a photo ID is not required to vote in Minnesota, Treat explained the state’s process ensures that election security is maintained.
“Voters can prove their identity with a utility bill and a photo ID like a tribal identification card,” she said.
Minnesota also allows those without a fixed address, including unhoused voters, to register by describing where they live.
“Our office is not authorized by Minnesota law to investigate or charge people with voting-related crimes,” she added. “Investigations are led by law enforcement, and county attorneys make the decision on if a charge will be filed.”
The Minnesota Judicial Branch tracks convictions related to voter fraud. The conviction statistics for ineligible voting in recent years include:
• 2023: Five convictions for ineligible voters knowingly voting and three convictions for ineligible voter registration.
• 2022: Five convictions for ineligible voters knowingly voting, three convictions for ineligible voter registration.
Absentee ballot security
The handling of absentee ballots and drop boxes has been a key area of public concern in recent elections.
A drop box is a secure, designated location where voters can submit their completed absentee or mailin ballots, typically offering an alternative to mailing them back or voting in person.
While Beltrami County does not have authorized drop box locations, Treat assured voters that absentee ballots are carefully logged and monitored.
“We keep a log of who drops off an absentee ballot if it’s not the voters themselves,” she added. In terms of drop box security at the state level, Knudson noted that counties and cities can choose to use drop boxes as long as they meet the requirements of Minnesota Statute 203B.082.
These requirements include mandatory safeguards such as continuous video recording and are designed to prevent unauthorized access. She also spoke on voters who submit ballots for others, usually spouses or family members.
Knudson added that any collection/delivery of absentee ballots outside of the methods authorized in Minnesota law is prohibited.
“There are checks in place to ensure that when results are counted, the number of ballots matches the number of requests for absentee ballots,” Knudson said. “Every absentee ballot that is accepted and counted is tied to a registered voter.”
Election Day ballot process
When it comes to ballot handling on Election Day, the process in Minnesota is carefully designed to ensure accuracy and security. Treat provided a stepby-step breakdown of how ballots are processed in Beltrami County from the moment they are cast to the final certification of results.
Once the polls close on election night, officials review all the ballots cast — whether they are inperson votes, absentee ballots or direct ballots. The ballots are then processed using tabulator machines.
"They are called a DS450,” Treat added. “They are for tabulating large amounts of ballots. We can put in an entire stack of mail ballots and it will go through and tabulate them very quickly.”
After the ballots are scanned and processed, they are sealed into ballot bags with the election judges’ signature over the seal before the results are reviewed by the canvassing board.
Every county establishes a canvassing board of five members: the county auditor; the district court administrator; the city mayor and two members of the county board. Each city and school district has its own canvassing board to certify results in those races as well.
Post-election audits also help verify the accuracy of results.
How secure is Minnesota's voting system?
One of the recurring concerns raised about elections is the potential for voter fraud. Treat emphasized that Beltrami County's system has several layers of security to prevent illegal voting.
DISTRICT 8
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the sanctity of life and opportunities for families to grow.
Jen Schultz
How do you view the state of the economy in northeastern Minnesota right now, and what can you do in Congress to support local job growth?
As an economist, I will bring meaningful investments to our region and will focus on fixing our economy, so it works for everyone. I’ll represent working people, not
"If they don’t have a physical address, they can give a description of where they sleep,” Treat added.
At the state level, Kudson emphasized that voter fraud is handled much the same way.
political parties. I’ll help small businesses, work to increase affordable housing and access to health care, and invest in our port, infrastructure and schools — all things businesses need. I’ll work with everyone regardless of party affiliation. I’ll vote for infrastructure bills, and champion policies to bring back and protect domestic manufacturing and responsible mining to create jobs. I’ll strengthen the middle class because it is the foundation of our economy.
What should the federal government be doing to ensure public safety in our communities?
Public safety is about protecting people and communities. I fully support law
“Voters can return their ballot and up to three others,” she said, “When returning ballots for others, they must be returned to the county/municipal office, show ID and sign a log. In some limited cases, certain voters may be able to use agent ballot delivery. Only these limited methods of returning someone else’s absentee ballots are permitted.”
“We hand count every paper ballot for a precinct, Treat said. “And (when) we get results for that precinct, we make sure the results that we hand count are exactly what the machines said, what the machines counted.”
Once the canvassing board cross-checks the hand-counted ballots with the automated tabulator results and they match, the election results are then considered official.
enforcement and first responders. I strongly oppose defunding the police. I have great respect for first responders and military personnel as my late father was a dedicated firefighter, paramedic and Vietnam veteran. We need to secure our borders humanely. Congress should have passed the bipartisan border bill. We need to address illicit drug use by improving border security and drug surveillance. I will address mental health and homelessness. We need to make sure people have access to basic needs and opportunities to thrive.
Do you support congressional action on abortion, birth control, in vitro fertilization or other reproductive health measures?
Every person should have the right to make their own health decisions with their doctor, not politicians. I support reproductive rights including abortion, access to birth control and IVF treatment. We need to codify these long-held protections into law. Restrictive state laws are jeopardizing women’s lives. In addition to increasing access to healthcare, I will protect Social Security and Medicare. I have a track record of getting things done through being an independent thinker, asking good questions, solving problems and helping people. There is a better way forward where we improve lives by investing in people and in our communities.
