Tim Hansen on ballot for Second District alderman seat
Hi, I’m Tim Hansen. I have lived in Medford since 1977. I was born and raised in Minnesota, and attended and graduated from Mankato State University.
I am currently semi-retired, but still work at the Sports Page Bowl & Grill on a part-time basis, and also drive school bus for Krug’s. I am a member of the Taylor County Board of Supervisors representing District 1 of the City of Medford. I am chairman of the Taylor County Board of Health and the Taylor County Library Board. I also serve on the following committees: Finance, Personnel, and IT.
Why do you want to serve on city council?
I hadn’t thought of running for alderman until Peggy Kraschnewski filed her “now-candidacy” papers. Let me take a second to thank Peggy for her many years of service to both the City of Medford and the District. As the time towards the filing deadline kept passing and no one had filed, several people convinced me to give it a run, and here we are.
What should the city do to promote business redevelopment in vacant stores? Or should the city have a role in this process?
Yes, I believe the city should do everything in its power to ensure a vibrant downtown. There are several state and federal urban renewal grants and loan programs that are available. The city could act as a facilitator to get these funds into the hands of small businesses.
What do you feel the city’s biggest asset is and why?
We are in a very great place here in Medford. A lot of cities of our size are very envious of our large industrial base, our modern medical facilities, our modern airport and our thriving small business community.
What do you feel the city’s biggest challenge is and why?
The biggest challenge right now is finding people to fill the work force. Each week The Star News is filled with help wanted ads that go unfilled.
As a corollary to the lack of people, is the lack of affordable housing. This is a problem that is nationwide and has no simple solution. A partnership between public and private investors might provide the best answer.
As city employees in leadership positions retire or leave, do you feel it is better to promote from within the city staff to maintain continuity or hire from outside as an opportunity to introduce new ideas? Why?
I don’t think this is an either/or question. Both of your premises have valid points.
Continuity vs new ideas.
In the end, the only thing to do is trust the interview committee. You can’t be tied to strict policy of hiring from within, or hiring only from the outside. Either one of those ideas may eliminate your best candidate. In the end we want to fill positions with people that will bring their best to the city.
