Three-way race ahead for county commissioner seat

WILLMAR -- A last-minute filing Tuesday means there will be a primary election for Kandiyohi County's District 2 commissioner seat.

Paul Hoffer, of Willmar, filed late Tuesday afternoon for the position, currently held by Board Chairman Richard Larson, who has filed for re-election.

Bill Graves, of Willmar, filed last week.

Because there are more than two candidates, a run-off will be held during the primary election on Sept. 9.

Hoffer said that he decided to run for office be-cause he has "a passion for public service" and enjoys being involved with "decision-making and policy-making."

This isn't the first time Hoffer has run for County Board.

In 2006 he ran against Commissioner Harlan Madsen in District 5. At that time Hoffer lived in Kandiyohi.

He has since moved to Willmar and lives in District 2.

Hoffer, 53, said he believes the board needs a "new voice, a young voice" and someone who is "not afraid to speak out on the issues."

Taxes and prioritizing county projects were cited as main issues he's concerned about.

He said he believes the five current members "have the same ideas and same thoughts" and there is not a great deal of debate on issues.

"I just think we need a new voice in Kandiyohi County," he said.

Hoffer works for Dockrite of Hutchinson and is currently the manager of New London Dock and Lift. He has four children, including two that attend Willmar High School, and three grandchildren.

District 2 includes part of Willmar's Ward 3 and all of Ward 4 on the city's east side.