District 2 County Commissioner: Groth

Steve Groth

Age: 58

Residence: Goodhue

Family: Wife, Karen; four children; four grandchildren.

Public Involvement: Active member, Goodhue Wind Truth; church elder, Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church, Red Wing; regular attendant at county and township meetings.

Education: Zumbrota High School

Work: Owner, ATI Services, Zumbrota.

What is the main issue you would address as a county commissioner?

After being involved with Goodhue Wind Truth, I truly believe the heart of our problem is an ever-growing federal and state government. As the economy slows, the government grows. My involvement with the industrial wind issue has solidified my views on the importance of local grassroots government, from townships to county.

I believe in lower property taxes, less government regulations, less government restrictions, more personal freedom, and less dependence on government. This is how this great country was built.

The county faces a budget crunch that looks to continue into the years ahead. How would you address the county's ongoing budget issues?

First we have to balance the county's budget without tax increases. Let's start here by cutting commissioners' salaries and benefits, and then continue across the board throughout the county employees. Benefits seem to have become expected and taken for granted. Then line-by-line cut the fat off the meat.

Lowering the taxes and less government interference would provide business growth and expansion, encouraging new business creation in our county, keeping the existing businesses here and creating more employment, which in turn would bring more revenue to the county.

Over the past year, wind energy has been at the forefront of county politics. What role do you think the county should play in large-scale wind development projects?

The county government is established to protect the health and safety of all its residents. I have brought forth two ordinance amendments in regards to large wind projects; both have reasonable restrictions protecting all citizens of Goodhue County from noise, ice throws, stray voltage, and flicker.

I have been to the Public Utilities Commission numerous times and they are looking to our county for direction. We know our area far better than they do. Ultimately, the county government is responsible for giving guidance, protecting our dense home population and beautiful, agriculturally rich land. We need to protect our county.

What are some qualities that make you well suited to be a county commissioner?

Straightforwardness, honesty, not being afraid to tackle any issue, and I will stand up for all people's rights. As a business owner I have been through the ups and downs of business, dealing with employees, government restrictions and regulations. As a county commissioner I would encourage growth of local business.

I would push for less government interference and more personal accountability and responsibility. I know business creation and expansion is greatly encouraged when taxes are lower for businesses. I offer a new perspective, which will only help all the people I would represent in District 2.

Tags: goodhue county board, local government, elections