County Commissioner - District 4 Candidate: Charlie Meyer

Q: Please list your background and specific qualifications for this position.

A: I was born and raised in Douglas County. I graduated from Jefferson High School in 1973. I went to Alexandria Tech and graduated with a degree in sales and marketing. I have worked full time at Garden Center since 1974.

My wife, Kathy, and I have been married since 1978. I have three grown children, two sons and a daughter, all living in Douglas County. My two sons and I currently own and operate our family business. I retired from the Alexandria Fire Department with more than 20 years of service. I was president of the AFD Relief Association for 18 years.

I was on the board of directors for Viking Savings Association from 1996 to 2008. I have been on the Minnesota Bowling Proprietors Board of Directors since 1984. I have been on the executive board for 12 years, serving as the president in 2005 and 2006. I am active in the West Central Food and Beverage Association and am now serving my second term as president.

Q: What do you view as the biggest challenge facing the county right now and how would you deal with it?

A: I believe the biggest challenge right now is trying to reduce the government’s wasteful spending while continuing to run an efficient operation. I would try to get each department to work more efficiently within their budget.

Q: Would you say the current board has shown commitment and follow through on current projects, for example the law enforcement and services center and courtroom remodel? What would your strategy be to further progress?

A: I think they definitely had good follow through on their project with the courthouse and the old Central School. I would make sure there is a better maintenance program in place moving forward.

Q: Is there anything more the county can do to combat aquatic invasive species, such as zebra mussels? Share other thoughts about protecting water quality.

A: I think the county has been doing a good job keeping an eye on that. I think if we continue to work closely with the DNR, our water quality will improve.

Q: County commissioners have recently opened communication with the Alexandria City Council. What would you contribute to this partnership?

A: I think the city and county should work together as often as possible. We could save the taxpayers money if we didn’t duplicate some services.

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