Rick Anderson
S chroede r has two people running for one open seat on the township board.
Marion (Bill) McKeever and Rick Anderson are vying for the seat now held by McKeever. Bill has been a lifelong volunteer for Schroeder and for many years he has been involved in local politics. As for Anderson, he is hardly a newcomer, but is less well known than McKeever. Here is a look at Rick Anderson.
Tell a little bit about your background, where you came from, your career, what you do now, etc.?
My wife and I moved to Schroeder from the Twin Cities 23 years ago. I have been self-employed for 35 years, primarily as a roofing contractor. I am currently working with my wife at Temperance Traders and Temperance Liquors in Schroeder.
Why are you running for township supervisor?
I have attended most of the town meetings throughout the past 10 years, and am familiar with all issues the town faces. I’d like to see the town grow in positive directions as we head into the future.
What do you see as the greatest threat to Schroeder Township?
Our county is investing too much in tourism while our industrial area is going idle. We’ve lost many good-paying jobs needed to keep people invested in our community. Also, five small businesses have disappeared from our town over the past 20 years. We’ve gone “boom to bust.”
If you could change anything about the township, what would it be?
To change the business environment from seasonal to year-round so that people who want jobs here can afford to stay.
What is (are) Schroeder’s biggest asset(s)?
We are the gateway to Cook County and make a first impression. We also have a substantial industrial area defined (developed and undeveloped). Home sites and business sites are also available.
What will happen if Schroeder loses the percentage of profits from the sale of taconite? Do you think the township does enough to work with the IRRRB? Or the DFL legislators from the Iron Range?
It could be the final “straw in Schroeder’s back” to lose profits from the sale of taconite. Taxes will certainly rise for our citizens at a time when tax money is continually sought after. We need to be fiscally responsible in order to achieve township goals. If upcoming legislation or working with various organizations can aid the town in a positive way, Schroeder should be open to reviewing all information.
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