---

The City of Lindstrom has its first ever female Mayor, with the installation  of appointee Judy  Chartrand on Friday, March 3.  The two remaining city council members left in office following a couple of resignations early in 2023—voted to put Chartrand in the mayor’s position over two other citizen applicants, AnnMarie Brink and Rodney Stickney.  Chartrand had just won a council seat in the November 2022 election.

Once Chartrand was sworn-in she was able to vote to appoint her replacement Greg Krueger.  The other existing council vacancy was filled by the three approving former council member Dave Waldoch.  There was a total of 12 candidates vying for appointment to council.

Sitting Council member Linda Merkel reminded the citizens if they are disheartened by the appointment process there will be another ballot in a couple years.
Mayor Chartrand commented that the number of people who expressed interest in serving Lindstrom was heartening.

The members of the council, including Brian Norelius, also newly elected, did interviews with candidates February 22, 23 and March 2. They ranked their preferences based on resumes, responses to the questions and experience they bring to elected office and the choices were all seated by unanimous vote.
Waldoch and Krueger will be sworn-in at the next council session.

---