Dodge County District 2 candidates
Tim Tjosaas.
I have lived in Dodge County for almost my entire life - I grew up on a dairy farm east of Kasson. From there I spent one year in Sioux Falls, SD at Augustana College (now University) and then three years at the University of MN - St. Paul Campus while attending college. My wife and I returned to the area following college and have lived in Kasson since 2001.
My wife, Christina, and I have two adult children - Abbie and Brayden. Abbie is married to Jonathan Root and they have two wonderful children - Ella and Connor, and currently live in Kasson. Our son, Brayden, currently lives in Alexandria, Minnesota.
For the last almost 30 years, I have worked for Compeer Financial (and its predecessor organizations). Currently, I am the Managing Director of Agri-Access where I lead a business unit which provides secondary market financing to Ag lenders across the U.S. Prior to this role, I led the Compeer Home team that focused on financing homes and recreational land. I have also led the Compeer Home Underwriting and Servicing Teams.
My public service started in 2002 when I ran for the Kasson City Council. I was elected for a four-year term and then ran for Mayor at the end of that term. I then was elected to four two-year terms as Mayor. In 2013 my father, Lyle, was the County Commissioner and unfortunately passed away during his final term. In 2014, I ran for his seat in a special election in February and have since ran for re-election and won in three different election cycles (Fall of 2014, 2018 and 2022). With this experience, I have also served on many boards and commissions such as: Kasson Public Library, Kasson Planning and Zoning, Kasson Parks & Recreation, Kasson EDA, K-M Joint Ventures, South East MN League of Municipalities (served on the Exec Board and as President), SEMCAC (currently on the board and have been on the Executive Committee), MN Prairie (current Chairperson), Spero, Dodge & Olmsted Community Corrections, the Drug Court Task Force, Public Health committee, SEMREX and the EDA.
I believe in public service and providing leadership to the county. I want to serve the residents of Dodge County to the best of my abilities. I continue to look for ways to provide quality services while trying to maintain or lower our tax rate. Over the next couple years, we have a lot of potential funding shifts coming from the State and Federal levels of government so the challenge will be on us as commissioners to find ways to provide quality services and trying to keep our tax rate low. With MN Prairie I want to finish working through the withdrawal of Steele County and the set-up of the new organization with Dodge and Waseca counties. As its current chairperson, I want to make sure that we are able to navigate the final challenges in 2026 and then see the new organization be successful in the early stages after January first.
Finally, one other item I'd love to accomplish is to bring more awareness and understanding to how county government works. We're limited in flexibility with the multitude of unfunded mandates to how some programs are funded. There are the grant funds that can only be used per very specific guidelines (ex. opioid funding) or require time studies to determine how much time is spent on a program and then the requisite funding received. What should seem simple and straight-forward when it comes to budgeting becomes very convoluted and difficult because of the strings attached or stringent guidelines to be met. In summary, my goal is to always look at options on how to keep our tax rate in line and levy increases minimized. However, the mechanics behind that work can be very difficult and I'd love to help people better understand the process and inner workings.
My goal is that Dodge County continues to be a great place to live. At the county level we do view ourselves as rural and agriculturally focused first and we need to keep that in mind as each of our communities grow. Balancing city growth with our agricultural roots can bring difficulties, however, I always want to keep an open mind and leave open the doors for communication that can help all of us be successful.
Troy Stafford
As a lifelong resident of Dodge County, I have deep roots in our community and a strong commitment to the public. My boys were raised here and are proud graduates to the KM School District and I gratefully serve as an officer and leader of Mantorville Fire and Rescue, President of the Mantorville Fire Department Relief, Co-Treasurer of Dodge County Faith in Action and an active Commissioner of the Mantorville EDA.
I currently live in Kasson with my wife, where we have a blended family of four children; two each. Our children have pursued rewarding careers as a dentist, software engineer, surgical technician, and embryologist, and we patiently await the day we can complement our family with the addition of grandchildren to our welcoming family!
We enjoy traveling to Indianapolis to spend time with our two children who live there, while also making the most of the time we have with our two who live locally. Family is extremely important to us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to stay connected and support each of our children in their careers and lives.
We enjoy being active in our faith community and believe strongly in giving our time, talents, and support to the communities we are fortunate to be a part of. I am a very active MFD and find it very gratifying helping others in some of their greatest times of need. Serving others and giving back has always been something that is important to our family.
I grew up in and graduated from Dodge Center High School where I subsequently went to Winona State for a BS in Accounting started my career at the CPA firm of McGladrey & Pullen and passed the Uniform CPA exam. After 7 years in public accounting, I worked in various private industries in both Controller and CFP capacities then in 2020 when into real estate; specifically row crop land and rural properties. I thoroughly enjoy helping clients achieve their end goals whether that is in the sale of or purchase aspect in quite often, the largest transaction of their lifetime.
I understand how financial decisions affect families, businesses, and community growth. By combining sound financial judgment, analytical thinking, and a commitment to public accountability, I will make thoughtful, data-driven decisions that serve the best interests of Dodge County and its residents.
I proudly serve as an officer and leader of Mantorville Fire and Rescue, President of the Mantorville Fire Department Relief, Co-Treasurer of Dodge County Faith in Action and Mantorville EDA. Past role I have been active in include Faith Lutheran Church Dodge Center church counsel and the Kasson Planning Commissions along with Habitat for Humanity board member. These leadership roles have equipped me with the experience and skills to make meaningful contributions as a public servant.
As a CPA with professional experience in public accounting and several CFO/Controller positions, I have developed the financial expertise, accountability, and problem-solving skills needed to serve our community effectively. My background enables me to analyze financial data, identify cost-saving opportunities, and make informed decisions that protect taxpayer resources while ensuring responsible fiscal management.
One of the most important issues facing Dodge County is keeping property taxes affordable, particularly for seniors and others living on fixed incomes. Many longtime residents have worked hard to pay off their homes, yet rising property taxes can make it increasingly difficult for them to remain in the communities they helped build. When incomes remain relatively stable but taxes continue to increase, homeowners face financial strain that can force difficult decisions about housing, healthcare, and other essential expenses.
Keeping property taxes in-check also benefits working families, veterans, and individuals with disabilities who often face similar financial constraints is near and dear to my heart. Affordability contributes to stable neighborhoods, encourage homeownership, and strengthen the local economy.
By balancing responsible government with sound financial management, Dodge County can remain a place where people of all ages can afford to live, retire, and thrive. Protecting taxpayers, while preserving essential county services, is fundamental to maintaining a strong and sustainable community.
“With all the unfunded mandates being pushed down by the state, it is ever more imperative that local governmental units roll up their sleeves and perform deep dive critical analysis to mitigate unnecessary property tax increases for our local residents. Maintaining fiscal responsibility while continuing to provide quality public services should be a priority. County leaders must carefully evaluate spending, seek operational efficiencies, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely. Thoughtful budgeting, responsible planning, and pursuing other funding opportunities can help reduce pressure on local property taxes without compromising essential services.”
Dodge County District 3 candidate
Jim Checkel is running unopposed for the commissioner seat.
I have lived in the district that I am running in for my entire life.
My family consists of my sister, brother in law and niece. They live outside of our community.
I am currently retired. I worked for nearly 42 years doing research at Mayo. I worked in various labs, including Allergy Research for 30 years and 11 years in Neuroimmunology Research, with fill ins in Immunology and Osteoporosis labs.
I also worked on numerous farms doing work on both crops and livestock. I ran my own farm for over 25 years.
I also have worked parttime jobs at Barlows, Northern Tool and Equipment and at Ashley Furniture. I also have worked at Patterson Motors, Greenway Co-op, and Owatonna Canning Co.
I have served for 6 terms as a Supervisor for Ashland Township Board, and for the Chair of the Dodge County Association of Townships.
I currently serve on the Dodge County Planning Commission. I also serve on the Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Promotion Council for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. I serve on an Advisory Committee for the Kasson Clinic, and for the Dodge County Community Foundation.
I hope to accomplish a good relationship with the various departments at the county level and a better understanding of their needs. I have worked in the past with personal from several departments and impressed with the dedication that I see from these people. I hope to be able to help they better accomplish their goals and to better be able to explain to people not serving in public jobs what it is what each department does and how to work together.
“My goal is to serve the people to the best of my ability, and to be able to say clearly why I make decisions on issues that are presented to the Board”.
Dodge County District 4 candidates
Rhonda Toquam
I am a lifelong resident of Dodge County. Growing up on a dairy farm in NE Dodge County, and have lived in my current location since 1987.
I am married to Roger. Together we have 3 sons, who all reside in Dodge County with their families and are actively engaged in our family farming operation.
My years of work have been raising our sons, and being involved in our farming operation.
I previously served on the Dodge County Planning and Zoning Board, and have served as District 4 County Commissioner since the 2016 election. As a commissioner, I have served and still do serve on many committees, Joint Powers Boards, and other boards both related to commissioner work, and volunteer community and church boards.
What I would like to accomplish in the future is continuing to maintain Dodge Counties financial stability, while continuing to keep the county budget and levy increase at a minimum. Working with staff to continue excellent services to our residents, meeting with state officials with hopes of making the needs and requests of rural Minnesota known and understood.
“My goal for the community is making sure Dodge County is a place to be proud of. Maintain our rural landscape and agricultural base, while being a place to come for entertainment, scenery, history, and enjoyment.”
Ashley Martin
I have lived in the community for more than four and a half years and am proud to call it home. Hayfield has been a wonderful place to live. I moved to Minnesota more than 11 years ago for a job opportunity, but I didn’t move too far from my home state of Wisconsin. My husband has lived in the Hayfield community for more than 11 years, and he is what originally brought me to the area. After moving to the area, I have been involved with local organizations and businesses that have given me the opportunity to meet and work with others.
I live in the country just outside Hayfield with my husband, our six fur babies, and our chickens. Most of my family lives in Wisconsin, and I also have family members who live in nearby communities.
I have worked in the healthcare industry for more than 18 years across three institutions. During that time, I have held roles in a variety of research areas as well as education. Each experience has helped me strengthen my skills in working with patients and colleagues, collaborating with other institutions, and building partnerships.
While working full time, I earned an associate degree in clinical research, a bachelor’s degree in healthcare management, and a master’s degree in business administration. These accomplishments have given me opportunities to expand my knowledge and continue building my skills while reinforcing my belief that hard work pays off.
I have never held public office before. Over the years, I have learned more about county government and how it serves our communities. I have wanted the opportunity to run for county commissioner in my district because I believe I can bring a fresh perspective and make a positive difference.
I believe that if you see an opportunity for change, there is no better time than now to take a chance, step up, and get involved.
I would like to accomplish several things as a county commissioner. District 4 covers a large area, including many townships and residents who deserve to have their voices heard and to feel seen and represented.
One area I would like to focus on is county spending. I believe we need to take a closer look at how taxpayer dollars are being spent and make sure we are being responsible and thoughtful with those resources. I know this is easier said than done, and it can be easy for someone on the outside looking in to criticize decisions. However, when there are areas where improvements can be made, we should be willing to have those conversations.
“Every resident deserves to be heard and treated equally. I would like to make it easier for residents to address the commissioners at board meetings rather than having to wait and hope they can be placed on the agenda”.
Another important area is our roads and bridges. I would like to better understand whether we are taking full advantage of available funding opportunities and doing everything we can to improve and maintain our county infrastructure.
Communication and transparency are also important priorities for me. Residents should be informed through multiple channels and know where to find information about their community, county projects, resources, and the work being done by the county.
My goals for the community include developing a better long-term plan for spending and improving communication with residents so they know what resources and opportunities are available to them, as well as when road and infrastructure projects are expected to take place.
“We all deserve transparency, honesty, and equal treatment. I believe the county should have a longer-term plan of action for spending and projects, rather than focusing primarily on the next one to three years—and should be willing to share that plan with residents. Having a clear, long-term vision can help the county make more informed decisions and allow residents to better understand where their tax dollars are going and what they can expect in the future.”
