Attract newcomers to build workforce: mayor candidate
NEW ULM– The race for mayor will be contested after Jeff Kiecker recently filed his candidacy for mayor.
Kiecker said he filed because he loved being in New Ulm. He was born and raised in the community and said he wanted to give back.
For 11 years, Kiecker ran a cab service in New Ulm and now runs a moving company. He is also a full-time employee at AMPI.
If elected mayor, he said his top issue was ensuring New Ulm remained a safe community that should be promoted to attract new people town. Kiecker said many local businesses are struggling to find employees, and bringing more people to the city could help alleviate worker shortage.
Kiecker is the second individual to file for the mayoral election. Lonnie Luepke filed for mayor last week.
Current New Ulm Mayor Terry Sveine announced earlier this year his will not run for another term.
The Ward 4 City Council seat will also be contested. Incumbent Larry Mack and Michelle Markgraf filed last week for the council seat.
The Ward 2 City Council seat also up for election this year, but incumbent Eric Warmka is the only candidate to file. He is currently running unopposed.
Friday, May 27, and Tuesday, May 31, are the last two days to file for candidacy. Candidate filing will remain open through 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 31. City Hall offices are closed this weekend and Monday for the Memorial Day holiday.
Anyone seeking to appear on the election ballot for Ward 2 city councilor, Ward 4 city councilor or mayor must file at City Hall before this deadline.