From staff reports
Want to run for public office but have no idea what the job entails? The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce might have some answers.
The chamber will have a free, two-hour seminar called "Candidacy 101" on May 30 at the chamber office, which is on the main floor of Holiday Inn Downtown, 220 S. Broadway.
Intended to offer a well-rounded look at life in public office, the seminar will cover everything from how to start a campaign to the demands of holding office.
Several former and current elected officials will speak during the event.
ADVERTISEMENT
Olmsted County Attorney Ray Schmitz, former Rochester City Council member Ed Hruska and Olmsted County Commissioner Carol Kamper will speak.
Former state senator Nancy Brataas and Rochester School Board member Paul Scanlon have been invited. City Clerk Judy Scherr also will speak.
The chamber offered a similar class once before, in 1996, said John Eckerman, the chamber's government affairs director.
"I think it's important to find out the time constraints, what you need to run a campaign, how you juggle (political obligations) with a job," he said.
The seminar is open to chamber members and non-members.
The period to file for local offices begins July 2. Election Day is Nov. 5.
