Mille Lacs County looking for 3 SWCD supervisors this election

Interested in doing your part to protect water quality in Mille Lacs County and our local watersheds? This November, the Mille Lacs Soil and Water Conservation District will have three supervisor positions up for election. Within the county, there are five supervisor positions, each representing distinct groups of townships. On the ballot this year are the seats from District 1 (representing Greenbush, Princeton and Bogus Brook townships), District 2 (representing Borgholm, Milaca and Milo townships) and District 4 (representing Bradbury, Kathio, Onamia and South Harbor townships). While specific qualifications are not required, candidates must reside within the district they aim to represent. All supervisor positions are voted on countywide and regular terms are four years.

The Mille Lacs SWCD was recognized as the District of the Year in Minnesota’s statewide voting in 2022. This recognition was largely due to the district’s unique approach to enlisting individuals and communities in its civic decision-making approach. The SWCD is instrumental in a many projects in Mille Lacs County including well water testing, tree planting, invasive weed monitoring, soil management, and shoreline stabilization, all aimed at protecting soil and water resources in our area’s rich tapestry of landscapes and land-uses.

Elected supervisors convene monthly for public board meetings, fostering dialogue and decision-making around district priorities and long-term objectives. Essential to the supervisor role is the ability to engage diverse perspectives, navigate differing viewpoints, and contribute to constructive discourse. Civic engagement, critical thinking, and strategic listening are invaluable assets in shaping district policies and priorities.

The time commitment for supervisors varies, ranging from four to 12 hours per month, depending on individual engagement levels. To support their dedication, supervisors are compensated for their time and mileage for approved meetings.

Interested candidates are invited to file for candidacy from May 21, 2024, through June 4, 2024, at 5 pm. Additional information is available on the District’s website. Take the next step toward being a steward of our natural resources by contacting the Mille Lacs SWCD for more information on filing for office.