Meet the local candidates: Matt Widboom

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Name: Matt Widboom

Commissioner District: 3

City or Township in which you reside: Worthington Township

Occupation: Farmer & Radio Broadcaster

What qualifications do you have for seeking a county board seat? Served 6 years as Worthington Township board member, 2 as chairman; owner/operator of a grain & livestock farm; 15 years of experience as local radio/farm broadcaster; 10 years of volunteer service in local charity, education and agriculture organizations; Received specialized training in rural leadership and community betterment from the University of Minnesota, the Blandin Foundation, American Soybean Association and Farm Bureau Federation.

What is your top priority in county government? Honest, open communication

Explain ideas you have to address your top priority: Nobles County is fortunate to have many qualified employees on staff whose leadership, expertise and opinions matter and will be vital in shaping the future of our county. I believe it is the commissioner’s role to listen earnestly and engage in frequent, in-depth conversations with citizens and county employees alike. Getting the real story and gathering as much information as possible to make well-informed decisions will be instrumental for establishing honest, open communication.

What would you like to see accomplished in the county in the next four years? As a livestock farmer I understand the importance of agriculture to the economic engine of Nobles County. County government must continue to encourage and sustain growth in the livestock industry.

During my 6-year tenure on the Worthington Township board I was surprised that no opportunities arose to gather with all entities of county government to discuss how we can provide better services to our citizens. Such a discussion would likely result in time and cost savings for townships, cities and Nobles County. Merging the minds of all members would allow for the sharing of ideas, round-table dialogue and cohesive communication. This same communication approach will improve relations with neighboring cities and counties as well.

A common sense approach to wisely investing the tax payer’s hard-earned dollar is the ultimate responsibility of our county commissioners.

Additional comments: Nobles County is at a crossroads with many imperative decisions to be made regarding administrative leadership and building projects. My wife and I are now raising the fourth generation of the Widboom family in Nobles County. As County Commissioner I look forward to integrating a fresh, youthful, honest approach in this new chapter of local government. ensuring quality living for our children and grandchildren.

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