Need a reason to vote this November? We’ve got several—and that’s not counting state or federal offices.
Come Nov. 5, Cottage Grove voters have four council seats and a referendum to fund parks among their ballot questions.
As to the council seats, there are Council member Tony Khambata, Council member Justin Olsen, Council member Monique Garza, and Mayor Myron Bailey. Of the four Garza is most recent and Bailey most senior, Garza being appointed to serve in council member Steve Dennis’ place and Mayor Bailey in his fourth term, first being elected as a council member back in 2005 before running for mayor.
As to parks in Cottage Grove, the fall ballot will also seek approval for a half percent sales tax to fund improvements at Hamlet Park, Mississippi Dunes Reserve, and River Oaks Golf Course. Known as Preserve. Play. Prosper,’ the initiative is expected to raise $36 million over 25 years. City projections predict an average $22.99 increase in yearly sales tax per resident with the tax, or 1/200 of every dollar spent. Of monies raised, $17 million will go for Hamlet Park, $13 million for Mississippi Dunes Reserve, and $6 million for River Oaks Golf and Event Center.
Returning briefly to local offices on the ballot, Newport residents will have a chance to vote for mayor and two council member seats this November, with said seats currently held by Laurie Elliot, Kevin ChapdeLaine, and Marvin Taylor.
Closing out with St. Paul Park, the city holds elections in odd numbered years, meaning there are no local offices on the ballot this fall.
Live in Cottage Grove or Newport and thinking of running? Candidate registration starts July 30 and closes on August 13.