Milbrath, Johnson, Fitch run for county seat

Three candidates have filed for the open Waseca County Commissioner seat in District 3, vacant since the death of longtime commissioner Blair Nelson in May. Brad Milbrath, Larry Johnson and Ann Fitch have all filed the necessary paperwork to run in the special primary election set for November 7. The two highest vote getters from the Nov. 7 primary will move onto a general special election February 13, 2024. Whoever wins the February election will serve the remaining three years of a four-year term representing citizens in the City of Waseca Wards 1A and 2A. Voting booths for those Wards are at Christ Community and Faith United Methodist Churches. 

Milbrath, first to announce, filed on August 15. He is a former Waseca County Sheriff who retired at the end of 2022.

Johnson, next to announce and file on Aug. 17, is a former Waseca City Council member who is currently employed as a banker/mortgage lender at MinnWest Bank. 

Fitch, also a former Waseca City Council member from 2015 to 2019, serves as the president of the Waseca County Chamber of Commerce. 

Johnson released the following statement on Facebook:

“I have filed to run for County Commissioner. Many of you know me. You have seen me volunteering at various functions, maybe you spent time socializing at my past businesses, maybe I DJ’d your wedding or your kids or I helped you with your home loan. It is my belief that this position requires the type of skills that I have acquired over the last 33 years getting to know you and this community. As a former city council person, I know how to approach difficult civic tasks and to work toward building a consensus to help move projects forward. As a former business owner and a current banker, I understand the importance of reading budgets and understanding their impact on citizens.  I humbly ask for your support and vote as we move toward the election and toward a bright future for Waseca County.”

Milbrath released the following public statement in early August:

“My name is Brad J. Milbrath, retired Sheriff of Waseca County. I am stating my intent to run for Waseca County District 3 Commissioner, which has been left vacant by the untimely passing of Commissioner Blair Nelson.

“I have 34 years of local government experience, with 24 years in Waseca County as chief deputy and sheriff. I have extensive knowledge of Waseca County operations, policies, procedures, department activities and responsibilities, as well as public relations with staff and local, state, and federal agencies. This knowledge will allow me to continue with current county board business effectively and efficiently.

“Commissioner Nelson and I worked closely on many projects while I was serving as sheriff. We had similar visions and ideas for making Waseca County a better place to call home for current residents and those we hope to attract and welcome to Waseca County.

“As your next County Commissioner, I will use the experience and skills I developed as Sheriff to ensure District 3 voters, as well as all Waseca County residents, will get professional and effective representation. I will make sure your concerns and issues are addressed and that your voices are heard.

“I would appreciate your vote in November.”

Ann Fitch released the following public statement Wednesday: 

“It is with great enthusiasm that I am running for Waseca County Commissioner, 3rd District Seat. Having spent a lifetime living, working, and serving in Waseca, I have witnessed the challenges and opportunities that our county faces. I firmly believe that together we can build a brighter future for all. My journey has been one of service and dedication to making our area an even better place to live, work, and thrive. As your county commissioner, I will bring transparency, a collaborative spirit, and a deep understanding of the needs of our all neighborhoods. 

“I know my years spent on Waseca City Council, Waseca Economic Development Administration, Discover Waseca Tourism, and numerous other organizations have prepared me well for this endeavor. I look forward to sharing my thoughts with you throughout this campaign. “Your support is appreciated and never taken for granted.”