Mapleton to Run Primary Election for Council Candidates

August 13 Vote Will Narrow Down Pool from Five Candidates to Four for November Election

Joe Hassler

1. Personal Information

I have been married to my wife, Hannah Hassler, for over 11 years. We don’t have any kids at this time, but we are hopeful to adopt in the future.

I am the Pastor of Faith Bible Church in Mapleton. I’ve been a resident of Mapleton since Jan of 2022.

2. What Experience or qualities do you posses that would be beneficial to the community if you were elected to city council?

I’ve had the privilege of living in a number of different communities over the last 12 years. During that time, I’ve served (in a volunteer capacity) as a chaplain for the Pinal County Sheriff’s Department; the Board Chair for the Duncanville City Library; Vice President of the Duncanville Lions Club; and most recently as President of the Maple River Chamber of Commerce. I’ve received feedback that I’m well organized, I’m good at considering both day-to-day needs and the big picture vision, and I am good at prioritizing issues and discerning what the next best steps may be.

I think that there are real benefits for any given city council to include long-standing members with a history in the community, as well as people like me who have been able to experience a variety of approaches to local governance and leadership. I would bring an appreciation for Mapleton’s heritage and excellence, as well as the fresh perspective of a homeowner in the community who has lived in other parts of the country as well.

3. What would you say is the core issue of your campaign?

I want to help Mapleton be a vibrant community for all of us. I would emphasize stewarding the resources we have, such as our community members, local businesses, city staff, and public services (fire, police, library, etc) while also embracing new opportunities for growth.

4. Are there any other issues that you feel are important to Mapleton residents?

I’ve heard many residents express concern in issues like child care, the best use of public spaces, and how to continue to maintain or build the infrastructure that multigenerational residents and business owners need to enjoy living and working in the Mapleton area across their life spans.

Joel Larson

1. Personal Information

I have been married to my wife, Mary Ellen Larson for 39 years. We have four grown children: Daughter Kirsten (Ryan) Ertman. Sons Paul (Marcie) Larson, Eric (Lauren) Larson, Ben (Kelsey) Larson. We also have 9 grandchildren. Kirsten & her family live in Mapleton. Ben & his family are moving to Mapleton in September. Paul & his family live in North Mankato and Eric & his family live in Winona.

Occupation: Recently retired after working for Compeer Financial Services for 28 years as Director of Credit. Previous to that I was a Farm Business Management Educator & High School Ag Teacher/FFA Advisor for approximately 12 years.

Residency: We have lived in Mapleton for 31 years all at the same address.

2. What Experience or qualities do you posses that would be beneficial to the community if you were elected to city council?

Past experiences include serving 6 years on the Mapleton Community Home Board (4 years as Chairman), currently serving as a Trustee at St. Teresa Catholic Church and past Chairman of the Finance Council. Currently serving on the Mapleton EDA (Economic Development Authority).

The qualities I would bring to the City Council are my extensive experience in finance & budgeting along with a long

history as a resident - knowing many community members through my years as a volunteer youth basketball & VFW/Legion baseball coach and related school volunteer activities such as the MR Booster Club.

3. What would you say is the core issue of your campaign?

Economic development opportunities & affordable housing are two ongoing needs that I would like to help with.

4. Are there any other issues that you feel are important to Mapleton residents?

I believe in stewardship. I feel it is important to give my time & talents back to this community that has provided my family so much. Most of my career has been as an educator helping farm families understand their business. I would bring this skill set to the city council and Mapleton residents in the day-to-day governing of community business.

Kimberly Wilde

1. Personal Information

I am married to my husband, Chad Wilde. My children are Ava and Delaney Stencel, Tanner and Ellie Wilde

I work as a Senior Business Analyst at Mayo Clinic and I am a life-long resident of Mapleton (46 years).

2. What experience or qualities do you posses that wolud be beneficial to the community if you were elected to the city council?

I believe my background and experiences uniquely position me to contribute positively to the City Council and our community. As a life-long resident of Mapleton, I have a deep-rooted connection to our town and its people. My involvement as a member of the Mapleton Sertoma Club, Vice President of the Maple River Burns Club, and volunteer Scottish Dance teacher reflects my dedication to our community.

I’ve been actively engaged in organizing events like the 150th Burns celebration in Mapleton, MN, and have recently contributed to designing Mapleton signs and billboards, including the new sign near Daly Park, and the billboard at the south entrance of Mapleton. These efforts highlight my commitment to enhancing our town’s visibility and promoting our local heritage.

My passion for Mapleton drives me to see it grow and flourish while preserving its unique character. My roles in various organizations have strengthened my leadership and teamwork skills, and I am committed to serving our community with integrity and a focus on its best interests.

These experiences and my life-long connection to Mapleton equip me to approach City Council responsibilities with a balanced perspective, a dedication to community growth, and a heartfelt commitment to preserving and enhancing our town’s distinctiveness.

3. What would you say is the core issue of your campaign?

The core issue of my campaign is fostering sustainable growth while preserving Mapleton’s unique heritage and character.Ensuring that development and progress are balanced with the preservation of our local culture and historical charm. This involves promoting thoughtful planning that supports economic growth, enhances community amenities, and respects the traditions and values that make Mapleton special.

By prioritizing sustainable development, we can create opportunities for residents and businesses while keeping our town’s heritage at the heart of our decisions.

4. Are there any other issues that you feel are important to Mapleton residents?

Yes. One key area is economic development. Supporting our local businesses and attracting new ones can boost our economy and create jobs. I believe it’s essential to create a business-friendly environment and encourage growth that benefits everyone in our community.

Additionally, adding amenities and services to our town, enhancing public spaces, and increasing community events and activities. By investing in these areas, we can make Mapleton a more vibrant and enjoyable place to live.

I am committed to addressing these needs and working with residents to bring about positive changes that will improve our town and enhance the quality of life for everyone.

Evan Masters

1. Personal Information

I grew up in Lake Crystal, MN. I have been a resident of Mapleton since 2018.

I am married to my wonderful wife, Marissa, and together we have a baby girl and a black lab.

I graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato with a degree in Aviation and am employed at a major airline company.

I was a member of the Army National Guard, where I served on a yearlong deployment to the Middle East as a Blackhawk helicopter pilot. Currently, I am a Captain in the Minnesota Air National Guard.

2. What Experience or qualities do you posses that would be beneficial to the community if you were elected to city council?

I have spent 12 years in various leadership roles in the military at home and abroad. As a military pilot and operations officer, I was responsible for the health of wellbeing of Soldiers in a combat zone as well as completing various missions in a complex area of operations. I have also spent many years as an airline pilot where my decision-making skills were of the utmost importance for the safety of my passengers and crew.

I strive to always treat our residents with dignity and respect and to always be available to listen. I care deeply about our city and our residents, and I believe I have the skills necessary to continue being a council member in the city of Mapleton.

3. What would you say is the core issue of your campaign?

I want to ensure we are in a good position to welcome new residents and to be prepared for future growth. This is not an easy or a short process and it will take a lot of time and effort to do this.

4. Are there any other issues that you feel are important to Mapleton residents?

I believe volunteers are very important to our community and we need to continue recruiting new residents, so they feel welcome and part of the community. Ideas are always welcome to help and/or improve in this process.

Lori Carlson

1. Personal Information

Lori Carlson. My husband’s name is Joel and we have one daughter, Taylor Etienne and a son-in-law, Riley Etienne, and of course my fur-babies.

I have been self-employed for 25 years in the Private Family childcare business.

I have lived in Mapleton all my life.

2. What Experience or qualities do you posses that would be beneficial to the community if you were elected to city council?

I feel as a business owner you need to be a self starter, a forward thinker, and a long-term goal planner. I also have a business background in finance, marketing, and management. While serving and leading various committees and organizations I have learned to lead by listening. I have the opportunity to serve as a member of the Park Board since its inception and it has brought me great pride and accomplishment. It has also shown me a desire to serve our community in a broader capacity. I am committed to helping our community grow and thrive in the future.

3. What would you say is the core issue of your campaign?

I believe my core goals are to continue building small town values with financial longevity and sustainability. I feel our public safety is a critical priority and as well as community engagement. I would like to focus on planning for long term development and growth of our community.

4. Are there any other issues that you feel are important to Mapleton residents?

My goals of environmental sustainability is a primary focus of mine. I love our work of maintaining our green spaces and welcoming areas for families. I also want to focus on listening to multiple perspectives and learning from others to be so supportive and effective for others. Creating the power of community.