Primary election: Sauk Rapids mayoral race is down to two

SAUK RAPIDS — Sauk Rapids voters will choose between Councilmembers Jason Ellering and Nicholas Sauer when voting for their new mayor this coming November.

The two beat out Andrew Neussendorfer in Tuesday’s primary election and will face off again on Nov. 5. They are hoping to fill a seat left behind by Mayor Kurt Hunstiger, who isn't seeking reelection.

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Meet the finalists

Name : Jason Ellering

Occupation : Sales/Project Manager at SCR (St. Cloud Refrigeration), Sauk Rapids City Council

Age : 41

Education : Associate degree in Business Management - Johnson & Wales University

What you want to improve as mayor : I think we have made a lot of progress over the past several years regarding improving roads and infrastructure, providing amenities for residents, and supporting our police and fire department, and my main goal would be to continue to do so while maintaining great financial health. The city’s finances will be a top priority for me.

What do you like most about Sauk Rapids : First and foremost — the people! I love that Sauk Rapids has a great sense of community and small-town charm. We have great access to outdoor activity as well as a vibrant downtown. I also love that our school district and the Storm community are such a large part of the city’s identity. Go Storm!

Name : Nicholas (Nick) Sauer

Occupation : Account Manager for Border States Electric, Sauk Rapids City Council

Age : 40

Education : I graduated from Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in 2002, and I have a diploma in Graphic Communications from St. Cloud Technical and Community College.

What you want to improve as mayor : I feel privileged to have served alongside different councils and staff over the years. I am proud to say that we have worked effectively and efficiently to make many improvements to Sauk Rapids. I would like to continue to improve our aging infrastructure, keep public safety a priority, and make affordable housing more attainable, especially for first-time homebuyers. I also want to continue to improve our parks and expand our beautiful downtown.

What do you like most about Sauk Rapids : It is my hometown. I grew up and then bought my first house in Sauk Rapids. I wanted to give back, and I am honored that I have been able to do that as a council member for the past 12 years. Most importantly, I love that I get to raise my own family in Sauk Rapids because it has been able to maintain that small community feel — even with the area's growth.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Primary election: Sauk Rapids mayoral race is down to two