Greene files for District 2 Commissioner

Rick Greene of Amador Township has filed for re-election to Chisago County Board of Commissioners. Rick has served as county commissioner for District 2 since 2007 representing North Branch, Shafer, Taylors Falls; the townships of Amador, Shafer, Sunrise and now adding Franconia following the new redistricting plan. Greene has been a lifelong resident of Chisago County. My family history in Chisago County dates back to the mid 1800’s. I am the fourth oldest child out of 14 children and was raised on a dairy farm in Franconia Township. “Having such a large family has given me untold experience in the art of negotiation and compromise.”

After graduating from Taylors Falls High School and then Dunwoody Institute where he earned a degree in electronics Greene continued with a 40 year career in agribusiness for John Deere in Osceola, WI. Greene remains a lifelong member of his church and is a member of Farm Bureau. In addition, Rick and his wife Randi, a registered nurse have owned and operated a successful grain and livestock farm outside of Almelund for the past 35 years. He and his wife raised three children on this farm, all graduating from North Branch High School. Morgan is employed at Stepp Manufacturing, a family-owned business in Sunrise and very busy with his family. Elizabeth is married to U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Tony Henriquez who has completed three deployments to Iraq and just returned in March from an 18 month duty in Africa.

They are thrilled that Liz, Tony, and 2 ½ year old TJ are all back together and stationed in San Diego. Youngest son Charlie is currently living in Roseau, MN working for Polaris in its transportation division. “I’m very proud of my family – especially my three grandchildren. I feel that 40 years in local business, 35 years running a successful grain and livestock operation and my previous years as county commissioner have given me the management skills out county need in these challenging times.” Greene started his service in local government on the Amador Township board, rising to the position of chairman. He won a seat on the Chisago County board in 2006, was elected vice chair in 2009, and chairman in 2010. He is also a member of a number of county and regional committees. “My years of experience as a township supervisor and county commissioner have given me the background to understand how government funding sources work and how to really get things done in local government,” he explained.

“One of the county board’s greatest accomplishments during my terms has been our determination to initiate and maintain a zero percent tax levy increase in the years 2010, 2011, and 2012. No one can remember the last time Chisago County had no increase in the annual tax levy. We continue to accomplish this in the face of continuing multimillion-dollar funding cuts while still providing good service for our residents.” Other accomplishments during his terms are: • Approved plans for millions of dollars of road improvements in District 2 during 2010, 2011 and 2012 without raising the property tax levy. • Increased commercial/industrial tax base. • County bond rating remains very strong. • Respectful county board meetings where citizens input is encouraged and valued. “In order for our county to grow during these tough times, the board must be continually vigilant about protecting taxpayer dollars from waste and misuse.

That was my goal when I started and continues to be my top priority as we move on in this economy. This takes courage and requires forward thinking that looks to the future.” Please contact me at my website Greene4Commis sioner.com or call me at 651-583-2513. I represent you and to do that I need to know your opinions. I enjoy listening and talking about your ideas.