ST. CHARLES, Minn. – A candidate for the Winona County Board in the District 3 election Tuesday, Bill Spitzer, said he would maintain continuing contact with his constituents if elected and vote accordingly. Spitzer’s statement was n response to a Winona Journal questionnaire designed to ascertain the values that the candidates woud bring to the office on specific issues. Spizter, a former deputy sheriff and mayor St. Charles, evinced a grasp of the issues but sidestepped how he would have vted or how he sees the dominant view of people in the rural District 3. The district comprises od the county’s north and west townships and also Altura, Elba, Minnesota City, Rollingstone, St. Charles and Stockton. The position pays $23,400. Said Spitzer:
“It is very difficult to tell you how I would vote on these issues of the past as it would be more my opinion than anything else. As commissioner of District 3, my vote will represent the citizens who live in the district not my personal view. Each of these six issues would have been discussed with the people who I represent and I would vote accordingly. Many times when I was the Mayor, I voted against my personal opinion because I was hearing something different from the people I represented.”
The questions were sent in writing to both Spitzer and Josh Elsing. Elsing declined to respond despite three requests. The questions asked how each would vote on major and recurring County Board isuses to give voters a firm feel for the candidates’ underling values.
Frac sand
Spitzer: “Some people may support the use of frac sand for hydraulic fracturing as it can contribute to energy production and economic growth in the region. Others may have concerns about its environmental impact, such as air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and potential health risks. Weighing the economic benefits against the environmental and health implications is crucial in forming a stance on this issue.”
Elsing: Didn’t respond to question.
Street corner pitches. In Lewiston across from Kwik Trip, which attracts lots f commuter eyes from District 3. Image: Steve Lunde
Elsing. Won three-way primary with 456 votes. Age 46.
Spitzer. Won draw between tied second-place candidates, who together garnered 368 votes. Age 60.
$28 Million Jail
Spitzer: “Advocates of building a new jail may argue that it could improve public safety, address overcrowding, and provide better facilities for inmates and staff. However, opponents may question the necessity of such a large investment, preferring alternative approaches such as diversion programs, community-based rehabilitation, or investing in mental health services to reduce incarceration rates.
Elsing: Failed to respond to question.
Daley Dairy Expansion
Spitzer: “Supporters of the dairy farm expansion may highlight its potential economic benefits, including job creation and increased local agricultural production. On the other hand, those with environmental concerns might focus on the impact of large-scale farming on water resources, soil health, and air quality. Animal welfare advocates may also express concerns about the treatment of animals in such facilities.
Elsing: Failed to respond to question.
CoVid Mask Mandate
Spitzer: “Those in favor of a CoVid mask mandate argue that it helps reduce the spread of the virus, protect public health, and prevent overwhelming healthcare systems. Critics may raise issues related to personal freedom, discomfort while wearing masks, or question the effectiveness of mandates in certain situations.
Elsing: Failed to respond to question.
Dog-Breeding Kennels
Spizter: “Opinions on dog-breeding kennels can be varied. Supporters of regulated kennels may emphasize responsible breeding practices, ensuring the health and well-being of animals, and maintaining breed standards. Those against kennels may be concerned about puppy mills, inhumane breeding conditions, and the welfare of breeding dogs and their offspring.
Elsing: Failed to respond to question.
8.5% Tax Increase
Spitzer: “Some individuals might support a budget with an 8.5% tax increase, seeing it as necessary to fund essential services and infrastructure improvements. Others may be concerned about the financial burden it places on residents, especially those with lower incomes, and may call for more efficient spending or finding alternative revenue sources.”
Elsing: Failed to respond to question.
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