FIRST, GIVE A VERY BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF YOUR PAST EXPERIENCES, ESPECIALLY ANY SERVICE ON ELECTED OR APPOINTED GROUPS OR BOARDS.

My name is Chris Etzler. I am currently serving the City of Staples as Mayor. Prior to being elected Mayor in 2007, I served as council member since April of 2005. Since return- ing to Staples in 2003, I have served the community in several different capacities including acting as the current EDA President. I am currently sitting on the city's Forestry & Beautification board, the Green Committee, the Government Center Task Force, Intergovernmental Relations Committee and the Emergency Services Committee.

In 2004, I co-founded the Quad County Youth Football League and currently act as board chair. I also represent the City on the Board of Directors where I will serve as the Co-Chair of their Economic Development Committee. In the past I have served on the Staples Community Foundation Board and the Staples Motley Chamber of Commerce Board.

1. HOW WOULD YOU PERSONALLY PLAN TO REPLACE OR REINSTATE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AID (LGA) FUNDS TO CITIES WHICH HAVE BEEN CUT DRASTICALLY THE PAST FEW YEARS?

LGA is critical to the survival of rural Minnesota cities and Staples is no exception. The math is simple; the city will levy its taxpayers for $726,337 in 2010, which is 24 percent of our $2.97 million budget. After the Governors cut, the City will receive $957,573 in LGA or 32 percent of our budget. Without LGA, in order to maintain the current level of services, the City's levy would more than double. Replacing lost LGA with large tax increases is not an option. Reinstating LGA is a state level legislative initiative. The City will need to work closely with the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, which has made LGA its top priority.

As a board member of the CGMC, I am participating in an interview process of each of the 2010 gubernatorial candidates as we are expressing the importance of the program. I have also worked hard at establishing a relationship with each of our State Representatives and Senators as they are the ultimate decision makers. I also encourage and support staff to participate in statewide policy making committees.

2. WHAT IS YOUR VIEW OF THE PROPER ROLE OF THE STAPLES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA)?

I view the role of the EDA as community growth. How do we grow the community? Through not only chasing smokestacks, but by creating an inviting community that people want to live, work and play. By working with and encouraging local entrepreneurs to grow their business. By connecting with and encouraging out of area entrepreneurs to consider Staples as place for their manufacturing or retail facility. By understanding the needs of the community as it relates to why people do or don't live, work or play here.