Q & A’s – Waconia Mayor
Incumbent Jim Nash is running unopposed for Mayor of Waconia (seat is 2-year term).
1) Why do you want to serve as Mayor for the city of Waconia? (100 words)
Nash: I have really enjoyed my last two years as Mayor and feel that through my role I am able to serve my city in a number of ways. I enjoy representing our city across Minnesota, as a wonderful place to live, do business, and raise a family. I am looking forward to doing the same for another two years.
2) What areas of the city budget need to be cut? Are there any areas that need additional funding? In what cases would you support a tax increase? (250 words)
Nash: We have worked very hard to pare the budget to a level where we are providing essential needs, and little else. I understand that the money we spend at city hall comes from your checkbook, and because of that understanding, we are always looking for ways to do more with less. One area that will need to be addressed in coming years is our infrastructure, and staff and council are working on a plan that will map out the highest priority projects that will be funded for improvement.
3) What ideas do you have to help promote residential, business and job growth in Waconia? (250 words)
Nash: Waconia has seen positive commercial and residential growth in the last two years! This is due in large part to the amenities that we have in Waconia, favorable tax climate, and quality of life and to the creativity that we have in ways to attract people to locate here. We are looking at ways to expand our industrial base and there will hopefully be things developing in the 2013-14 timeframe.
4) What is the most pressing issue facing Waconia? What would you do to address that issue? (250 words)
Nash: I think that one of the most pressing issues for our city is infrastructure. We have several great needs on Highway 5 to address with MnDOT and local businesses, and also we have several local street needs that will be a focus for the coming years. Our community will continue to grow, and as leaders we need to focus our attention on the critical link between infrastructure and growth.
5) Why should voters consider you for the position of Waconia Mayor? (100 words)
Nash: I think that I have done a good job in my role as Mayor and have kept my focus on serving the needs of the community at the forefront of my efforts. Whether it is advocating for invasive species legislation, transportation improvement, working with state leaders in St. Paul, or lending my support to local activities, I think that residents see that I am working hard for Waconia and will continue to do so.
6) Please tell us about your background and/or experience. (100 words)
Nash: Married to Kim 22 years, 6 children: James, David, Sarah, Hannah, Matthew, Emily. Small business owner and entrepreneur. Served two years as City Councilman Waconia Ward 1, two years as Mayor.
