County Supervisor candidates find little to disagree about at forum

In the Friday night AAUW form, the Winneshiek County Supervisor candidates found little to disagree about. They all advocated local control on issues such as frac sand mining and hog confinement operations, looked to the state for increased infrastructure funding, and were concerned about protecting the natural resources. Roads, bridges and balancing the budget were issues identified by the candidates and audience.

For those attending the forum it was more of an opportunity to hear what the big issues are and how the candidates felt their  background and style would enhance their ability to serve as supervisor.

District 1 incumbent Dennis Karlsbroten pitched his lifelong Winneshiek County residency, his effective negotiations that have saved the county money, the ability to speak up about concerns, and his fiscally conservative approach to governance.

District 1 challenger John Beard cited his experience in the State Legislature, work on numerous local groups such as Pheasants Forever, and his past effective resolution of county/landowner disputes.

District 2 incumbent Floyd Ashbacher noted his 25 years in the Sheriff's Office and said being a supervisor was very similar because it was all about problem resolution. He also noted his bipartisan, collaborative work and participation on multiple Board of Supervisor committees and boards.

District 2 challenger Barbara Massman felt her commitment to preserving natural resources, experience on the Planning and Zoning Commission, and her background as a long time real estate agent put her in a good position of listening and problem solving for residents of the county. She said that the Board of Supervisors had not had a woman on the Board in a long time, and felt a woman can bring a different perspective to the table.

John Beard and Dennis Karlsbroten

Floyd Ashbacher and Barb Massman