David H. Senjem
Age:67.
Residence:Rochester.
Political party:Republican.
Family:Married to Marlys; two children, Dwight and Jannah, son-in-law Eric Conger, granddaughter Hailey Conger.
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Education: Graduated from Hayfield High School and Luther College, Decorah, Iowa.
Occupation:Mayo Clinic (retired).
Community involvement: Served on Rochester City Council, Rochester Park Board, MinnesotaEmergency Response Commission, Southeastern Minnesota League of Municipalities, 21st Century PartnershipRural and Small City Vitality Task Force, Rochester/Olmsted County of Governments, Olmsted County Feedlot Task Force and Rochester Area Economic DevelopmentInc.
Website: SenjemforSenate.org
What would be your top three priorities?
1. Legislating and otherwise serving the citizenry with respect and dignity.
2. Bringing jobs and economic prosperity back to Minnesota.
3. Coming to agreement on an extremely challenging budget situation while working toward a strong jobs climate.
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What should be done to solve the state's $6 billion budget deficit?
State revenues for the 2011-2012 biennium are projected to increase from $30.7 billion to $32.8 billion, a 7 percent increase. Few family budgets will enjoy that level of increase. State government needs to function within the framework of the money our economy generates with tax rates.
What is one regional issue you would work on?
Support for the continued growth and development of the University of Minnesotain Rochester as a uniquely situated and specially programmed "best in the world" educational institution.
Would you support legislation to grant the city of Rochester the authority to put before voters a ballot measure to renew the city's sales tax?
This is difficult to answer as a committee is working on a list of candidate projects. However, assuming the projects selected meet legitimate community needs and are reasonable and creditable, I would provide legislative support.
Would you support efforts to connect Rochester to the Twin Cities via a high-speed rail line?
Mayo Clinic drives our economy. We must look to support Mayo whenever possible. Olmsted County is studying the engineering feasibility of the bypass option, the federally established $45 million local cost share and Dodge County's non-interest in a bypass within their jurisdiction.The county’s findings will guide future legislative decisions.
