Election 2016: Ramsey County candidates

For candidate profiles in other east metro races, go to www.twincities.com/elections.

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, DISTRICT 2, TWO SEATS

Sue Jeffers

• Age: 59

• What qualifies you to hold this position?
  My 30 year small business background, communication skills, common sense and work ethic will bring a new fresh insight to the county board. I am active in many projects in churches, schools and communities including being an election judge. I routinely speak to groups about property rights, economic development and getting involved in government.
• What would your top priorities be if elected?
  My top priority is a safe, vibrant and flourishing Ramsey County for all. Other priorities will include efficient and effective delivery public services, protecting and managing our public resources and promoting fair and affordable taxes. I will also focus on improved communication and accountability to the people of Ramsey County.
• What do you think is the primary role of government?
  To protect our life, liberty and property. I call county government the hidden layer of government that touches every aspect of our lives. The role of county government has expanded from being the administrative arm of the state to many other areas of government involvement that often trample the rights and responsibilities of we the people.
• Website or contact: http://SueJeffers2016.com

Mary Jo McGuire 

• Age: 60

• What qualifies you to hold this position?
  I have the experience, knowledge, and tenacity to get things done for our residents. Ramsey County is my home and I care deeply about the financial, environmental and social issues that impact our lives here. My legislative experience and community involvement has fostered many relationships that allow me to be successful in this role.
• What would your top priorities be if elected?
  – Encourage development to bring jobs and strengthen our local economy.
  – Advocate at the Legislature for funding for mandated services and keep the burden from shifting to property taxes.
  – Work to make county information more accessible to the public.
  – Prioritize the Continuum of Care, especially for mental health and early intervention.
• What do you think is the primary role of government?
  Government is the structure that performs functions collectively for the common good. This is best done through collaboration among all levels of government, private and non-profit sectors and citizens themselves. To be the most effective, government must always be assessing, evaluating, and balancing our needs and priorities.
• Website or contact:
  www.mcguireforcountyboard.org or info@mcguireforcountyboard.org

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, DISTRICT 7, TWO SEATS

Kim Points

• Age: 51
• What qualifies you to hold this position?
  Seventeen years experience in local government.
• What would your top priorities be if elected?
  My top priority would be good fiscally responsible government that creates a better balance between basic citizen services and current priorities that appear to only benefit a small segment of county residents.
• What do you think is the primary role of government?
  The primary role in government is to provide law, order, policy and services that are necessary for the community. The piece that is missing from current government is personal responsibility and common sense; there are not enough dollars to legislate or mandate personal responsibility. Government needs to incorporate that piece.
• Website or contact: kpdistrict7@gmail.com

Victoria Reinhardt

• Age: 63

• What qualifies you to hold this position?I understand the complex issues facing the County. I am an experienced leader and tireless advocate. My Doctorate of Public Administration focused on taxpayer costs avoided thru preventing crime. I work hard and use my experience and knowledge to bring private and public sector partners together to find innovative solutions that are cost-effective.
• What would your top priorities be if elected?
  The top challenge the county has is balancing limited resources with increased demands. My priority is to align our resources and cost-effectively strengthen our work towards achieving prosperity, opportunity and well-being for all. I will continue to work to tie our budget decisions directly to positive outcomes.
• What do you think is the primary role of government?
  The county’s role is to: provide public health and human services to our most vulnerable populations – families, children and adults; keep our communities and neighborhoods safe; provide good transit/transportation options; ensure access to libraries, and parks and recreation. All of which are tied to prosperity, opportunity and well-being for all.
• Website or contact: VictoriaReinhardt.com or 651-343-1749