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Just West of Waconia on Hwy 5

952-442-5000

Sebenaler Chiropractic Center

Chaska * 952-448-9908

CORNERSTONE Insurance Agency

David Barsness * 952-448-5028

8661 Deer Run Dr. * Victoria

952-443-2351

MACKENTHUN’S MEAT & DELI

St. Bonifacius * 952-446-1234

Highway 5 in Victoria

952-443-2491

Richard Tieden

8433 Spruce Point

Since 1997.

Wife Catherine, son Michael, 23; daughter Annie, 22.

1) Roots. I grew up in Minneapolis, lived for 18 years in St. Louis Park, then moved to Victoria because of the beauty of the countryside. I loved the small town feel and have made many friends here. A truly remarkable city.

2) Education/Work. Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Minnesota. While serving in the United States Army, Vietnam, 1970, I initiated and directed the first drug treatment program for the United States military, and then served as a civilian consultant to the Pentagon, where I helped develop three more programs for returning Vietnam veterans. Currently, I am a Career Probation Officer for Hennepin County. I have specialized in developing a cognitive skills program for high risk felony offenders. I also have a private consulting business, Richard A. Tieden Consultant, providing services for law firms where clients are in need of specialized services of a psychological or chemical health nature.

3) Reason for running. I decided to run again for Councilmember because it’s been an honor serving those in Victoria. Much has been accomplished over the eight years I have served, and a great deal remains to be done. Accolades are nice, but criticism helps you see other points of view and provides perspective and balance. In the final analysis, it’s what important for Victoria, and when you answer that, I believe we all get more accolades than criticism.

4) Improving Victoria. We need to continue working on our capital road improvement plan. If elected I will continue to talk and meet with representatives of these various offices. Victoria residents tell me that our service delivery is more efficient and friendly. I want all to feel that way and will continue to encourage that. In conclusion, if elected I will continue to participate in all appropriate committees, encourage healthy growth, and be accountable to the residents.

5) Characteristics of a Councilmember. To well represent the people of Victoria in both word and action, an individual should be knowledgeable about the state of the city, the issues and concerns that face the community, someone honest and willing to take the time to get issues resolved, someone capable of listening to all sides of an issue, finding what’s important for Victoria, and conducting one’s self accordingly.

6) Expectation of citizens. All of us are busy these days, but I would like to see more of a turnout at City Hall council meetings. I would like more people finding a place in our varied service organizations. As a Victoria Lion, our twice yearly pancake breakfasts bring many of us together, and I’m always asking others to join in, to join us. The sense of community is amazing, and people find themselves much more connected and, I believe, cared for.

7) Safeguarding transparency. The Minnesota Open Meeting Law and the Minnesota Data Privacy Act clearly provide direction in the handling of information and how we conduct business. As I read the question, the issue is about how the Council talks among themselves as to city business. We are well versed in understanding the law. It’s not about memos or electronics. It’s about integrity. We have it.

8) Parking. We sure have talked a great deal about parking but then it’s a great deal. As I see it, we want to provide sufficient parking to attract both business and customers. Many communities struggle with this and it appears it’s more of an art than a science. There are certain industry standards, the concept of shared parking, and pressure from a variety of individuals in how to go about this. This is what your Council wrestles with in the best interests of Victoria.

9) Lofty purpose. We have city codes and laws which provide direction and process for us all to live in harmony. This is accomplished in Victoria via your Council, staff, police, and fire department. We dignify this duty with efficiency, consistency, and fairness. Because of the great citizens we are, and the wonderful community we share, we live in a very safe community.

10) Council time. I’m always reminded that we find time to do the things we really want to do. Representing Victoria is the dessert on my plate.