Meet Kristi Anderson: Candidate for Orono City Council

To the editor:

My name is Kristi Anderson, and I am pleased to announce my candidacy for Orono City Council.  

My husband Bill and I have been residents of Orono for 15 years. We have raised three children here, one who recently graduated from Orono High School, the other two still immersed in Orono schools. We love the community, the rural character, natural resources, and most of all, the people.

As an entrepreneur, I own a gift manufacturing business plus a consulting firm which contracts with local governments. I have served as recorder with the cities of Orono and Shorewood, a Park and Recreation Director in Shorewood, and am currently the director of the Southshore Community Center, which serves the entire south Lake Minnetonka area.

My 15 years of experience have helped me understand how government works, what it takes to get things done and how to work with staff and neighboring communities. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of budgeting and using resources to streamline processes. I’ve made difficult decisions and participated in a multitude of city planning meetings. This professional experience has led me to pursue a bid for Orono City Council so I can put my background to work for you, my neighbors in Orono.   

If elected, I will facilitate greater responsiveness, citizen inclusion, government transparency and fiscal responsibility in fulfilling the duties of city council representative. I will strive to nurture the connection between citizens and city leadership, set clear priorities that follow our comprehensive plan, make positive connections with our neighbors and build community to secure Orono’s future.

I believe all citizens in our district need to be heard; I will strive to serve and represent people of all ages and backgrounds. There is so much to be proud of in Orono. Let’s work together with our families and friends, neighboring communities, local businesses and local government to ensure we preserve the wonderful place we call home.  

I respectfully ask for your vote on Nov. 6. I encourage you to email me at Kristiforcouncil@gmail.com to introduce yourself or learn more about my vision at Kristiforcouncil.com.