Spencer Buerkle
Spencer Buerkle's Blog

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.
Longtime resident of Sauk Rapids, graduated from Sauk Rapids High School and St. Cloud State with a degree in Business Administration.  Married wife Judy, Trinity Lutheran Church, Vietnam Veteran, Sauk Rapids Volunteer Firefighter 32 years retired, Sauk Rapids Fire Dept. Engine Company 2 Member, Sauk Rapids VFW and American Legion Member, Avid sportsman- Central Retriever Club, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited and NRA member.  Local real estate professional since 1969 as an owner of a local real estate firm, real estate agent, property manager and partner in local real estate partnership.

What experience do you have that prepares you for public office?
Former Benton County Commissioner for 6 years, 17 years on Central Minnesota Mental Health Board of Directors representing Benton County, 6 years Stearns Benton Workforce Council representing the private sector, currently serving on the Sauk Rapids Housing Advisory Board.  Also my education, my background in business and my civic duties have prepared my very well to carry out the duties of County Commissioner.  I am still active in the community and the private sector so I am able to keep in touch with the real world.

Why did you decide to run for this office?
I have always had a great interest in government, in fact I took electives in college in political science.  My real estate career has provided me with the background to see how important taxes, zoning, development, growth, roads, etc. impact our daily lives.  I sincerely enjoyed my previous time as county commissioner and look forward to serving again.

Top three issues you would tackle, if elected.
1).  Keep county spending under control
2). reduce disparity between Benton and Stearns County taxes
3). Improve on inter-governmental cooperation, communication, and strategic planning.