Darrel Olson to run for Baxter mayor
Darrel Olson, a Baxter City Council member, announced Saturday he plans to run for mayor.
Olson, 54, served more than two years on the Baxter Long Range Planning Commission before he was elected to the city council four years ago. His term is up this fall, and Olson said he wanted to announce his intentions to run for mayor early for others considering a run for his council seat.
Olson said he decided to run for mayor after much personal consideration and encouragement from community members. In a statement, Olson said he has talked to Baxter Mayor Gary Muehlhausen about his intentions to run. It is unknown whether Muehlhausen will seek re-election.
"I have no major disagreements with the current mayor. In fact we've worked well together and have mutual respect for each other," Olson said. "However, I feel it is time for a change and I'm ready for the challenge."
Olson said he believes serving on the long range planning commission and city council has given him insight and experience needed to become mayor. He said he has no personally driven agenda and does not represent any special interest group.
"My goal has always been to listen and represent everyone fairly, research the facts and do what is best for the city of Baxter," Olson said. "My record will show that."
Olson has worked for 16 years as an appraiser in the Crow Wing County Assessor's Office. He and his wife, Sheila, have two grown children and three grandchildren.
JODIE TWEED can be reached at jodie.tweed@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5858.