David Dill
The Cook County News-Herald contacted the candidates for Minnesota House District 3A—incumbent David Dill and challenger Eric Johnson and asked them to share a little about themselves. The News-Herald also asked them to share their concerns—and possible solutions— to the issues Northern Minnesota faces.
I was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, and lived in Crane Lake seasonally since birth— permanently since 1980. I am 59 years old and have been married 36 years to Tucky Dill. We have one son, Drake Dill. I have been a business owner 41 years. I’m a founder of Voyageur Trail Society, a (501) (c) 3. I was city administrator in Orr, MN 11 years and have served as a member of the House of Representatives (2003 to present). I’m a commercial pilot and aircraft mechanic.
I have served Northland communities as a volunteer, paid staff, community planner, and outdoor advocate for the past 35 years. My experience serving you in the House of Representatives (12 years) and as chairman of the House Environment Committee allows me the opportunity and experience to uniquely represent you with regard to natural resource use.
My House seniority allows me to be involved at the highest level of legislative process including jobs and economic development, education, senior issues, healthcare and taxes. My endorsement by the AFL-CIO and the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce demonstrates that my leadership skills have developed a reputation for understanding the issues that support labor and business.
Job and economic opportunity in rural North Eastern Minnesota is our biggest job. The state’s unemployment rate is below 5 percent but most of rural Minnesota continues to experience higher unemployment and lower wages and benefits than metro areas.
My focus on your behalf will be to continue passing legislation and development programs that add value to natural resources, wood fiber, minerals and tourism. Communities depend on good jobs, wages and benefits. Employers depend on a well trained reliable workforce. Our communities have both and the people are well positioned to take advantage of new opportunity.
My goal on your behalf would be to assure rural Minnesota, specifically District 3A, increases income of its residents and achieves unemployment rates comparable to the more populated areas of Minnesota.
Specifically for Cook County, I have chaired the IRRRB Board and know the pressures of keeping Cook County in the Taconite Relief Area. Taconite Aid is important to Cook County residents. I will continue to fight for Taconite Aid for Cook County just as I have for 12 years in St. Paul.
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