The Sherburne County Board of Commissioners Tuesday agreed to a six-month lobbyist to solicit federal funding for local projects.

 

David Turch met with the commissioners last week, making his pitch for his services. He was hired for the half-year at $4,000 per month.

 

Depending on any success  in securing federal funding, he could have his employment continued. 

 

Turch said last week his firm has connections to all levels of government and he could navigate the political system. 

 

He is currently contracted to St. Cloud and Stearns County.

 

The local board cited road issues and economic growth as the big reasons for his hiring.

 

But they weren’t unanimous.

 

Commissiooner Rachel Leonard of Zimmerman was most open in opposition to his hiring, saying the county hasn’t realized success in its affiliation with other groups or lobbying efforts.

 

She pointed to the VA Clinic and the new Ramsey Northstar station, which the county had lobbied for - and against - and lost on both counts. 

 

But the rest of the board held sway, arguing for Turch’ hiring.

 

Commissioner Ewald Petersen of Big Lake argued if the local transportation programs need a boost, it will come from federal programs to build them. 

 

“And we’re falling behind more and more,” he said.

 

Commissioner Bruce Anderson of Elk River agreed. He said he has had positive experiences with lobbyists “and there is success if you get the right lobbyist.”

 

He said you need to target specific projects.

 

“I’m in favor of it . . . “ he said.

 

Chairman Felix Schmeising of Palmer agreed with Anderson and Petersen.

 

Commissioner John Riebel of Becker said he was in the same corner as Leonard on the issue.

 

But he finally offered the tea leaf.

 

“Six months. If he doesn’t deliver, give him the boot,” he said.

 

The county’s two major priorities in hiring the lobbyist are to secure funding to upgrade federal roadways in the county, especially Hwy. 10.

 

Economic development could be given a real shot in the arm if companies could be pursuaded to come to the area, especially with improved infrastructure.

 

Turch, a St. Cloud native, has lobbied for federal dollars to clients from Oregon to Florida and international clients in Norway, Switzerland, England and Ireland.

 

A key relationship, Turch stated last week, is his dealings with Congressman Tom Emmer, who serves the 6th District, including Sherburne County.

 

The board then went into closed session for an hour to deal with negotiation strategy by Minnesota Statute 13D.03.