Letters of Support
THANK YOU!
I am so grateful to my many supporters who have taken the initiative to write “letters to the editor” that have been published in multiple newspapers that reach District 5 residents. And many of you continue to “like” and “share” our Facebook posts as well, thank you! Spreading your enthusiasm helps my campaign immensely. Our whole team appreciates you talking to your neighbors and friends and we will continue to read all of the local media and add your letters to this page!
Thank you for voicing your support – John Fahey for Carver County Commissioner District 5
Letters of Support for the 2022 Election
Letter written by Darrel Sudheimer of Waconia. Published in the Waconia Patriot, on the newspaper website October 31, 2022. Link to the letter.
To the editor,
I have had the privilege to sit on the Carver County Community Development Agency (“CDA”) Board with John P. Fahey for numerous years. It is the CDA’s mission to provide affordable housing opportunities and foster community and economic development.
As a Past Board Member, John brought his banking expertise, and small business common sense to some challenging issues facing homeowners, tenants and others looking for housing in Carver County. Also as the current Vice Chair of the County Board, John continues to be active with the CDA as the Board liaison. John’s leadership and experience are invaluable at this level and is a proven asset.
Darrel Sudheimer, Waconia
Letter written by Dan Ross, Chaska. Published in the Chaska Herald, on the newspaper website October 27, 2022. Link to the letter.
I first met John Fahey as a NYA Lion, 20+ years ago. He is active member, former past president and Melvin Jones winner. The Lions motto is “We serve,” and John certainly does that! He has served on various county and community boards and committees for 30+ years.
I also know John through the Ridgeview Medical Foundation, which he asked me to be part of many years ago, as part of a Business Partnership initiative. Through the Foundation, I was asked to serve on their board of directors and also became an on-call emergency dentist for Ridgeview Medical Center. Through John’s introduction to the Foundation, I was able to become part of this outstanding regional community medical center. John and his wife Janet continue to be active in the Foundation, another worthy cause they support.
Not only does John have small business and banking experience, but he also uses this acumen for the greater good of the community and serving as a Carver County Commissioner representing District 5.
As a small business owner, myself, I support John as our District 5 County Commissioner. I would like to see John in this role for another four years because he is someone who is widely connected, has years of community and county service, and has a strong educational background while serving others.
Dan Ross, Chaska
With November elections just around the corner, we would like to encourage all voters to get out and vote to re-elect John Fahey for Carver County Commissioner. John is actively involved in the community and in Carver County. He gets out to connect with people – to meet and greet them, and he listens to their concerns.
John currently actively serves as Vice Chair of the Carver County Board of Commissioners. Over the past 30 years, we have watched John through his experience and leadership get involved by volunteering and public service. We have seen him volunteer and actively get involved by helping at Carver Lions events, Steamboat Days, etc. He is involved – and it’s always great to see him at the Steamboat Days Parade. John connects with people, and not only listens to their concerns, but follows-up by answering those concerns.
John has listened to various issues in the area townships – we can count on him to listen and understand our concerns and he responds quickly and fairly.
Let’s re-elect John Fahey for Carver County Board of Commissioners. We look forward to seeing more of his accomplishments by keeping his expertise and experience working for Carver County.
Leon & Scheryl Goetze, Carver
Letter written by Robert Saarloos of Norwood Young America. Published in the Waconia Patriot, on the newspaper website October 17, 2022. Link to the letter.
To the editor,
I would like to take this opportunity to endorse John Fahey for the re-election of county commissioner for Carver County. I take recommending anyone for a political office very seriously. Vouching for the integrity of a person, whether it be for a job or political position, puts your own integrity at risk. I willingly submit my endorsement.
I have known and worked with John on committees and commissions over the years. I have always found him to be respectful and open minded when confronted with the various issues we were confronted with. John will approach an issue with a quiet resolve and methodically weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. He is articulate, fair, and contemplates a response before speaking. As Vice Chair of the Carver County Board of Commissioners, John has displayed these leadership qualities.
I believe we are truly fortunate to have John Fahey running for county commissioner. I know he will serve us well.
Robert Saarloos, NYA
Letter written by Roger Storms of Chaska. Published in the Chaska Herald, on the newspaper website October 20, 2022. Link to the letter.
I support the reelection of John Fahey as Carver County Commissioner. John has served us well for the past two years and is currently the vice chair of the county board. John invests the time and energy to inform himself about the issues before him.
John does this by listening to voters of his district and asking for their viewpoints. You will see John Fahey at functions throughout Carver County. Many times, he will be working for the event, making him available to visit with you.
John has the experience of being a public servant to complement his availability to learn new solutions by seeking and listening for your opinions.
Please vote for and support John Fahey for Carver County Commissioner.
Roger Storms, Chaska
Letters of Support from 2020 Election
I support John Fahey!
I have had the chance to meet with both remaining candidates for Carver County Commissioner in District 5. Though I commend both John Fahey and Mark Willems for running, there are clear distinctions between the candidates; in many ways they are polar opposites. I am supporting John Fahey based on my personal experience with both candidates. In my experience, John Fahey is honest, trustworthy, hard working and ethical. I don’t sense he will play favorites, make back door deals with friends or family or openly disregard or even mock the citizens of Carver County. John has committed to me to support business and community growth, to always tell the truth, to vote his conscience, to refrain from “vote swapping”, to represent his constituents over himself, to embrace the future while also supporting our County’s agricultural past and to be a man of integrity. From my experiences with John Fahey, I believe he is telling the truth and I heartily support his candidacy!
Mark D. Halla
Carver County resident and prior candidate for Carver County Commissioner in District 5
John P. Fahey has my upcoming vote in the August 11th Primary!
I’ve grown up in Norwood Young America and Carver County and graduated from Central High School. I currently attend college at the University of St. Thomas for a degree in Finance.
I was actively involved in Boy Scouts and community involvement is important to me. Through the years, I have seen John’s involvement, volunteerism and leadership within the communities and County. John understands and supports small businesses, which is also important to me, given my family has owned and operated a small business for decades.
John is a lifelong resident for Carver County who can provide a long-term vision. He is hardworking, ambitious, and has the education and experience we need in Carver County.
I appreciate that John has given me the opportunity, exposure, and experience to be involved in this Commissioner Race and part of his Campaign Team. Giving to and supporting others is what he does and therefore, he has my vote for Carver County Commissioner, District 5. Join me in voting for John in the Primary on August 11th.
Connor Smith
Norwood Young America
John P. Fahey represents the very essence of what Carver County is all about: Citizenship, Leadership, Business Ownership, Volunteerism and most importantly, Family Values.
As a CITIZEN, John has served on Carver County’s Planning Commission for 11 years & currently serves as chair. He has also served as a District 108 school board member,
As a LEADER, John is a former Mayor of Norwood Young America and is dedicated to working with leaders of the 10 cities and 10 townships, which make up Carver County. He understands the importance of strong supportive interrelationships among rural townships, cities, and Carver County.
As a VOLUNTEER, John has been a proud Lions’ member for over 26 years and is a Lions Melvin Jones Award Fellow, presented to John for “dedicated humanitarian services” by the Lions Clubs International Foundation.
As a BUSINESS OWNER, and along with his commercial banking lending experience, John knows first-hand the challenges that come with human resource management, service to customers, the value of critical decision making and having a strong vision for the future.
As a FAMILY MAN, John is devoted to his wife Janet and two sons. He is quick to say that their support and love serve as his foundation.
As a former Carver County Mayor of the City of Victoria, I consider John Fahey a pragmatic, thoughtful, and inclusive man who understands the value of community. His experience, education, and strong Carver County relationships will bring much value to us all. On November 3rd, 2020, please cast your vote for John as your 5th District County Commissioner. He will bring out the best of Carver County.
Mary Hershberger Thun
Former Victoria Mayor
Solving problems in the midst of criticism is a critical necessity for public service. I am thankful that so many committed and capable candidates are running for county commissioner seats in the coming election.
John Fahey has spent his entire life involved with communities, townships, and county matters. His commitment to civic engagement is exceptional. His work ethic, small business experiences, financial industry involvement, and awareness of county-level issues makes him an excellent candidate for county commissioner.
These attributes and my personal relationship with John and Janet Fahey are why I will be voting for him.
Scott Jensen
Laketown Township
We support John P. Fahey for Carver County Commissioner – District 5. John will bring his well-rounded leadership, experience, and education to work for us. He is a life-long member of Carver County and Norwood Young America and has served the County and Communities in many ways for many years:
• Chair, Carver County Planning Commission
• Carver County Community Development Agency
• Carver County Board of Adjustments
• Carver County Park Board
• Mayor, Norwood Young America
• District #108 Norwood Young America School Board
• NYA Economic Development Commission
• 26-year NYA Lion’s Club member
John personally knows many of the farm families in District 5 and beyond. He has taken the time to know us and the important issues we are facing. We trust he will continue to listen to our needs and represent us at the County level.
His education with a degree from St. John’s University, a rural college, along with his MBA from the University of St. Thomas, along with his professional banking experiences has given him the tools he needs to manage government budgets, taxes and spending. As a small business owner, he also understands the importance of supporting these establishments within our community.
We like John’s ability to work with people and at the same time be able to analyze and manage tough issues. Experience + Leadership. John will get the job done for us. Join us in voting for John in the Primary Election on August 11th!
Bob & Lori Kloth
Farmers – Young America Township
I plan to vote for John P. (JP) Fahey for Carver County commissioner – District 5. I am a graduate of Central High school in Norwood Young America and am currently attending Iowa State University studying Animal Science with a pre-vet tract. I plan on hopefully one day opening a vet clinic in Carver County or working at one.
JP has been a mentor to me and is someone I look up to. He has been a successful small business owner and community and County leader. He also supports and encourages young adults to pursue their education and business goals. I also think it is very important to have a leader who supports and works for our farmers of Carver County and JP is the person for the job. He also has grown up in Carver County his entire life and will work for the county and make decisions that have positive impacts and benefits for our communities. Lastly, JP is motivated, driven, passionate and a people’s person who will work for the people of district 5.
Join me in voting for John in the Primary on August 11th, for Carver County Commissioner – District 5!
Payton Dvorak
Norwood Young America
The Fahey Family has been a landmark name serving in Norwood Young America and Carver County for the past 100 years. We have been neighbors to the Fahey family for 50+ years. We know John personally and have seen what he and his family have done to serve the community and County.
His mom Carol was a County Public Health Nurse for many years and his dad, John (Bud) was a District Court Judge in Chaska. His brother Mike was also a County Attorney and later a District Court Judge.
John was the Co-Chair of the 2007 State Amateur Baseball Tournament and has volunteered at numerous events at the Norwood Young America Sports Complex (Zellmann Field). He & his wife Janet also helped with high-school events and were active with the Booster Club.
Serving and leading within the County is what he and his family know how to do. He served as our former Mayor of NYA, currently serves as the Chair of the Carver County Planning Commission and also serves on the Carver County Community Development Agency.
He has also been a Central High School Board Member, is a long-time NYA Lion’s Club member and has long term banking experience, formerly with Klein Bank and continues working in the banking industry today.
Education is important to him and his family. John is a graduate of St. John’s University; his wife Janet is a graduate of the University of St. Thomas and their two adult sons attend the University of Minnesota.
Not everyone has the will, work ethic or commitment to become involved like John has. We would like to see the Fahey legacy of service continue. We feel he will be the person who will truly listen and represent us the best as the next Commissioner.
We plan to vote for John on November 3rd, for Carver County Commissioner – District 5 and we hope you’ll join us.
Bob, Jo and Jim Zellmann
Norwood Young America
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing John P. Fahey for a long time and served with him on the Klein Bank Advisory Bank Board for several years. John is someone fully committed and knowledgeable about what is going on in the County. He is active in our communities, our churches, and our schools. From small businesses, to Townships matters, to City and County items, he is well informed and prepared to work with individuals to make the best decisions and have the best outcomes. His service with the Carver County Planning Commission for 11 years and as current Chair, is just one testament to his dedication and devotion to the County.
I’m proud to say my family farm is a Carver County Century Farm. You can imagine how important it is to me, to have a leader in the County who will care, respect, and work hard for farmers. I trust John will do that and therefore he has our vote for Carver County Commissioner – District 5. Please join us in voting for John in the Primary on August 11th.
Randy & Mary Lou Wroge
Farmers – Young America Township
As an educator and a resident of Carver County for over 25 years, I am voting for John P. Fahey for Carver County Commissioner.
John is a strong advocate for education. He and his wife, Janet have spent countless hours cheering at games and volunteering at many school events as their boys went through Central Schools. Their children did well in school while also participating in extracurricular activities, following in John’s footsteps. When John saw our children, he always took time to ask how school was going, encouraging them to aim high.
John understands that a strong education is essential for success, and he instills that message in all those he interacts with. He also served on the school board for our local school district. In this role, John’s leadership and ability to work with others towards common goals ensured the district was using all resources in the most effective ways possible.
One of the distinguishing differences between the District 5 commissioner candidates is that John is a parent, has had children who have been through the school system and who, as a past school board member, has firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing schools in Carver County.
John also is a long-time member of the Lions, a group that supports education as well as other noble causes.
One of the most compelling reasons I am voting for him is his demeanor. John is approachable, intelligent, and curious. He listens well and collaborates with others. I believe his leadership experiences, his love for this county, and his quiet leadership will lead our county well. I hope you will join me in voting for John P. Fahey on November 3rd.
Ann Dettmann
Norwood Young America
As an organic produce farmer and a business owner in Carver County, I know it takes hard work to market your business and have a vision. These are some of the qualities I look for in our City or County leaders. John Fahey has these qualities and is the best candidate for Carver County Commissioner – District 5.
I love Carver County. We need someone who can see the big picture, construct a plan – someone who can take action, inspire people and accomplish ideas.
John has shared with me his plans for Carver County when he is elected as Commissioner. Working with the Carver County Comprehensive Plans, budgets, and other County, City and Township leaders, a number of things he plans to do are;
- Work to get Highway 212 completed from Carver to Norwood Young America, along with safety improvements to State Highway 5.
- Work to support small businesses and bring economic development to the County. He supports tourism and is currently on the CDA Board, which is working with the local Chambers of Commerce, small business owners and Cities within the County to develop a County Tourism website and tourism efforts.
- Work to continue to provide housing and services to our growing communities. As part of the CDA Board, John has been involved in the Veterans Housing project.
- Work to manage and provide strong financial advice in regard to the County’s budget and expenditures, while maintaining the County’s AAA bond rating.
John is a strong supporter of farmers – working alongside of us, he brings great leadership, experience, and forward thinking.
I know his wife, Janet, and have worked with her to bring tourism to the County. Hundreds of people have visited my farm, “At The Farm”, through Agri tourism to the County.
John is committed to keep Carver County a great place to live, tour, visit and enjoy. John has my vote on November 3rd, for Commissioner and he needs yours too.
Donna Frantz
At The Farm
Waconia
