With Hastings Ward 1 City Councilmember Tina Folch attending her final meeting on Monday, March 11, the Hastings City Council met Monday to interview three applicants for the vacancy.
The council is expected to make an appointment to fill Folch’s seat, which expires Dec. 31, 2024.
The city accepted applications for the position through Feb. 22. Applications were received from DawnMarie Vihrachoff, Jane Neumiller-Bustad and Aspen Brenna.
On the application, candidates were offered a series of questions. Here are answers as to why each is interested in serving as a city councilmember.
Vihrachoff wrote: “I believe that ‘…to whom much is given, much is expected…’ I’ve lived in Hastings for 18-plus years and am grateful for our beautiful parks and trails, our thriving downtown, our wonderful schools, local businesses and our community programs. With my husband and me raising our daughter here, Hastings has given me and my family so much. I’m a busy mom that thrives on problem-solving and helping others. My hope is that serving as an interim city councilmember and using my non-profit leadership skill set would be of help to my community in some small way.
“I believe the role of government is to work to improve the lives of its citizens. I think the City of Hastings does an incredible job providing for and advocating for our community and making our city a dynamic place to live, and I’d like to be a part of these efforts going forward.”
Neumiller-Bustad answered: “As a member of the city council, I would:
•Represent the constituents of Ward 1 effectively, balancing the ward’s needs and the best interests of the whole city.
•Contribute positively to the discussions and decisions regarding the Vermillion corridor, safe drinking water, public safety, business growth, housing and community engagement.
•Support the city staff in carrying out the projects and activities that keep the city running smoothly.
•Serve the public interest and help shape the future of Hastings.
•Dedicate the time needed to learn the details of policies and projects, attend meetings and public events and represent the city commitment and integrity.”
Brenna wrote: “I am interested in serving as a city councilmember because I would be a voice for the younger residents of Hastings who don’t always have representation in their government. I also love the history in our town and can see the potential for Hastings to grow as a city and transform into a rivertown destination in Dakota County.”
