If you or someone you know is interested in running for office this fall, we’ve got news:
Ballot registration time is here—and also running short. With registration opening at 8 a.m. Tuesday, July 30 for non-primary races, the filing deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13. Those interested in filing will need to contact city hall and file an affidavit of candidacy with the city clerk. An affidavit of candidacy includes the candidates’ own notarized signature but no other signature requirements.
Open for council this year in Cottage Grove are two four-year council terms, one two-year council term, and the mayor’s post. Potential openings at Newport include two council member seats and the mayor. Grey Cloud Township will elect a treasurer as well as a township trustee position on the ballot. St. Paul Park does not have municipal seats up for election for this year.
With public office offering both free criticism but also the chance to make a real difference, ballot registration for local candidacy ends at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13.
Also on the ballot this fall, meanwhile, a parks referendum seeking funds for two city parks and a golf course will ask Cottage Grove residents to vote yes or no on a half percent sales tax, projected to raise $36 million for upgrading local parks.
Starting out the list is Mississippi Dunes Park. Located on the riverfront just south of the current Mississippi Landing development, voting for the referendum would help with park funding needs, explained in more detail on the city website.
“Although the Mississippi River runs through Cottage Grove, the community has not had a nature-centered space to learn about the environment, enjoy and explore natural habitats, and have direct access to the river,” the city explains. “While the city has been maintaining nature trails on the Mississippi Dunes Park property, it has not been able to invest in the restoration and preservation of natural habitat or enhance public access to the river and surrounding environment.”
Voting yes would assist the city in doing so.
Also included in the referendum is Hamlet Park. Located adjacent to historic Thompson Grove along Highway 61, Hamlet Park was first acquired in 1959, being the city’s largest and oldest outdoor space. Due to age and other reasons, the city is seeking help with funding upgrades to the area.
“Acquired in 1959, Hamlet Park is the city’s oldest and largest park,” the city explains. “With it being the oldest park in Cottage Grove, many facilities are in need of repair or reinvestment. With 150 acres of space at the park, there are several undeveloped spaces within Hamlet Park that have the opportunity for new recreational play. Additionally, the park building and equipment are in need of repairs and updates, such as the baseball and sports fields, that need additional funding to complete.”
A “yes” vote on the referendum Nov. 5 would help this to become a reality.
Last on the list of places included in the “Preserve. Play. Prosper” referendum from the city is River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center.
Located south of Highway 61, the 18-hole golf course has potential, per the city.
“River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center is a popular place for resident and visitors alike,” the city explains. “The 18-hole golf course, Toptracer range, bocce ball court, winter trails, restaurant, and event center have served our community well for over 30 years. As our community grows, so does the need for more year-round, family-friendly activities and events. River Oaks Golf Course and Events Center has the potential to become that recreation destination.”