Minnesota State University Reporter

Issue date: 7/9/08 Section: Local and State News

Chris Frederick

Former Minnesota State student president Chris Frederick officially filed for Mankato City Council member Mike Laven's at-large seat on July 1, the first day candidates were able to file.

Frederick, who announced his intention to run for city council in April, said he's excited about the opportunity to represent peers and constituents on the city council.

"I'd say I bring to the table fresh ideas and a new perspective," Frederick said. "I have a different perspective to offer - more of a long-term approach to issues."

Frederick, 25, served as MSSA president during the 2007-08 school year and is the Minnesota State University Student Association state chair. He said his experience at MSU gives him a unique perspective and ability to represent the Mankato community.

"I've gotten the opportunity to be immersed in the Mankato community and see what's all going on," he said, noting he can "look at both sides of an issue" before reaching decisions.

Laven, who has served eight years on the city council, has yet to file for re-election but said he plans to do so as early today. Candidates can file for office in Blue Earth Country through July 15.

Like Frederick, Laven touted his decision-making process as a councilor.

"It's a matter of learning to listen to what everyone wants to tell you and taking it into consideration and making a decision based on that," he said.

Laven's and Frederick's involvement with local issues, such as the social host ordinance, means the two have had the opportunity to work together addressing concerns of the Mankato community. Laven indicated he's impressed with what he's seen from the former MSSA president.

"He's a good guy and I would think he'd probably do a very good job," Laven said. But he also sounded a note of caution.

"Chris definitely knows more names to the faces [at MSU], but the question voters have to ask themselves is does that translate into a leader they know can get the job done?" he said.

Frederick said while he respects Laven, he believes the two come from different backgrounds and have different ways of examining issues. He indicated that while Mankato is on "a great path," there is still room for improvement.

"We can continue that [path] and build on some of the relationships already started by being more aggressive and foster those relationships," Frederick said.


Derek Wehrwein is the Reporter editor in chief

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