Wabasha County Commissioner - District 5: Cindy McGrath

To my fellow community members, citizens of Lake City, my name is Cindy McGrath, and I am running to serve as your next Wabasha County commissioner for District 5.

Having lived in Lake City and Wabasha County my entire life, this community is my home, and its future matters deeply to me. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Winona State University, with emphasis in physical education, driver education, and coaching. In 2022, I retired after 40 dedicated years with the Lake City School District.

Today, I remain active in the community by serving as a substitute teacher, Driver Education Program Director, and volunteering as a certified Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) for the Lake City Ambulance.

Since 2017 to the present, I’ve had the privilege of serving on the Lake City Council. That experience gave me a firsthand look at local government operations and reinforced my passion for public service. Now, I’m ready to put that experience to work for our entire county.

If elected, my primary focus will be managing your tax dollars responsibly while prioritizing essential services, public safety, and long-overdue infrastructure upgrades.

Well-maintained roads and safe neighborhoods aren’t optional—they are essential if we want to keep Wabasha County a great place to raise a family and start a business.

I am committed to being an approachable, listening leader for District 5. If you have questions or concerns, my door is always open. I respectfully ask for your support and vote on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.

Why are you running for county board?

I am running for the County Board to continue my commitment to public service at a broader level. Having served at the city level, I see this as the next step to represent our community’s interests and ensure our county government remains responsive, transparent, and efficient.

What qualities or characteristics make you a good choice to represent your district and why?

As a lifelong resident of Lake City and Wabasha County, I am deeply committed to our community. Today, I remain active in the community by serving as a substitute teacher, Driver Education Program Director, and volunteering as a certified Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) for the Lake City Ambulance. Having served on the Lake City Council from 2017 to the present, I bring proven local government experience and a clear understanding of public service.

What is the biggest issue facing the county at the moment and how do you propose to address it?

At this time, I don’t think there are any big issues facing the county. With that being said, when an issue comes before the county board, my duty as a county commissioner is to perform thorough due diligence before making a decision, listening to constituents, and evaluating all facts carefully before making informed decisions.

What’s your vision for the county in four years and then in the long term?

My vision is centered on fiscal responsibility and county stability. Whether looking at the next four years or the long term, I am committed to advocating for taxpayer dollars to be spent as efficiently as possible while prioritizing essential services, sound infrastructure, and public safety.

How will you work to make that vision a reality?

The county needs sufficient resources to maintain the repair and reconstruction of our roads and safe communities that are vital to the quality of life for residents in Wabasha County. Ensuring adequate funding will allow Wabasha County to be a safe, reliable place for residents to live and grow. I’m committed to keeping the county government fiscally responsible, just as I’ve done throughout my time on the Lake City Council.

How can people reach you for more information about your candidacy?

I will continue to be accessible and accountable to the citizens of Lake City either by phone, email or in person.

If I were to be elected, I will update my information at that time.