Thanks to Clothesline Laundromat for their support.
This year’s election includes candidates for Dakota County Soil & Water Supervisor District 2, which represents West St. Paul. We’ve asked the candidates a series of questions to see where they stand on the issues. We’ll share one question and the responses at a time leading up to the general election on November 5. See our 2024 voter’s guide for more.
Previously we asked about candidates’ top issues, the position itself, environmental issues, and what sets the candidate apart. This time we’re asking about impact.
The recommendations of the soil and water board are ultimately voluntary, so how will you work to ensure they still have an impact?
Here are the candidates’ responses:
Kendra Sommerfeld
I’ll work to ensure our board’s recommendations are practical and accepted by strengthening our partnerships with our local governments, organizations, and residents.
Laura Zanmiller
The SWCD’s role is not to enforce conservation. We work to identify sensitive areas and help educate landowners on the importance of conservation practices. The SWCD partners with individual landowners and local units of government to work together to develop a plan both parties can agree upon. This partnership is unique in that it is voluntary and both partners have the same goal of improving the land by getting projects on the ground.
However, the SWCD does have a minimal standard for projects that cannot be compromised. This standard ensures the work done has the necessary impact to achieve the desired results. Staff do follow up to ensure the projects are completed properly and meet the set standards.
Vote on November 5
The general election is on Tuesday, November 5. Learn more about where and how to vote. You can also vote early with an absentee ballot, either by mail or by stopping at the Dakota County offices.
See our 2024 voter’s guide for more on the candidates and other races.
Thank you to the candidates for taking the time to respond to our questions.
This local election coverage only happens thanks to the support of our members. Consider joining West St. Paul Reader to ensure local election coverage continues. Membership starts at just $3 per month.
