Letter to the Editor: Mayoral Candidate Sets Record Straight

To the Editor:

I am running for Mayor of Northfield, striving for the opportunity to serve Northfielders with leadership, collaboration, and integrity. The primary role of city government can easily be undermined by needless distractions and issues caused by poor communication, a lack of transparency, and unfortunately, rumors. It has been my hope that this dynamic wouldn’t be present as Northfield prepares to welcome new public servants. Unfortunately, I am experiencing the result of what can only be described as misinformation and gossiping in an attempt to sway votes.

A couple of weeks ago, it came to my attention that several citizens had been told that during my tenure on the Northfield City Council (2000-2004) I was censured by the council. I would like to publicly state that at no time during my term was I censured, nor was there any public or private discussion concerning such action. The Northfield City Clerk has reviewed meeting minutes and confirmed that there was no mention of it.

My family and I have lived in Northfield for nearly 20 years; my wife attended St. Olaf; and two of my children started school here and are now in high school. We have met and know incredibly smart and talented people who care as much (if not more) about others as they do themselves, and I can tell you: There should be no place for this kind of disrespectful and hurtful behavior in Northfield.

Thank you,
Dana Graham