We asked, what are the goals for Winneshiek County? What are our projects and dreams? This brought a silence. No one had a strong idea or plan.

People like the way things are in Winneshiek County, the quality of life and healthy living. There's controversy because we want things to remain the same, but change will happen. We want to see growth, but see smart growth. We want to shape our destiny, not let it shape us.

Our farmers are seeing better yields and are doing it more efficiently, yet they're still losing money. The 500 acre and below farms have been our strength. Those farmers are finding it harder to stay in business.

It's always hard when you're looking at infrastructure projects, because you're always going to be oversubscribed. One of the goals that we want to achieve in the next decade is sustainable environmental management - the best air and water quality that we can achieve.

A sense of accomplishment comes when you have completed the tasks for the goals you have set for yourself.

True friends... face in the same direction, toward common projects, interests, goals.