Wabasha County Commissioner - District 5: Cory Kubista
My name is Cory Kubista, and I am running for the Wabasha County Commissioner position.
Most of you know that I have been in law enforcement in Lake City for 30 years, but what most of you don’t know is that my childhood was spent here as well. My grandfather retired in Lake City in the early 70s when I was a child. I spent summers with him, and then my family moved here a while later. I still remember all the old shops, and some of my favorite memories are of helping out with the recycling on Oliver Paul’s recycling truck. Back then, I was able to ride on the back and help throw in small bags of garbage and share in these experiences with my grandfather. I also enjoyed being part of Lake City school sports, playing both baseball and football.
After graduating high school and serving as a member of the United States Army in the Gulf War, I was blessed to return to Lake City and continue to serve and remain actively involved in the community. I was a school resource officer for nine years, but in addition to that, I was able to guide and lead the youth in sports as a coach in high school baseball, football, and softball.
I am telling you this so you can truly understand how deep my roots are in this community. I came back to Lake City for more than just a job, it was where I wanted to be for the rest of my life.
I want this community to thrive, and I want it to continue to grow in a way that preserves our values and beliefs. Our town has an extremely strong education system that we are to be proud of. I believe in continuing that support alongside strong public safety and public health, growth for our businesses, and services for veterans and seniors. All of these things reflect not only what I believe in, but also what our town has excelled in.
Just outside of town, we have our farming and rural community, which has always been the backbone of our county. We need to provide them with the support and assurances they need to keep moving forward. I want to explore different ways to provide tax relief not only for our rural community, but our small businesses in town. In order to do all of these things, I would not only need, but greatly appreciate, the community’s support.
I love this community and want what is best for it. I do not only want to see our community continue to grow and succeed, but thrive. For me, this position is not only an opportunity to continue to use the knowledge and experience I have gained throughout my career but also to continue serving the people and community I care so much about. I understand the importance of making difficult decisions and taking responsibility for those choices, and I would be honored to continue doing that for our community as I have done for the last 30 years.
Your vote would be greatly appreciated, and I would be honored to repay that support by continuing to work hard for the community and county that I care so much about. I hope you give me the opportunity to do that for the next four years.
Why are you running for county board?
I want to continue looking out for our community, just as I have for the past 30 years. My focus is on ensuring that citizens are truly heard, correct processes are followed to get things right, and our staff’s experience and knowledge are fully utilized and supported. To continue to promote Lake City and assist our county in all aspects.
What qualities or characteristics make you a good choice to represent your district and why?
• Highly Approachable: I have always been someone who will talk with anyone and everyone.
• Active Listener: I focus on genuinely hearing what you have to say, rather than just waiting for my turn to speak.
• Inquisitive: I am always willing to discuss any topic, policy, or personal issue.
• Service you can count on!
What is the biggest issue facing the county at the moment and how do you propose to address it?
Social service programs are at the top of the list, alongside land values and zoning. The state has cut funding for Social Service programs, leaving counties to pick up most of the cost.
To address these, I will trust and follow the proper process:
• Gather direct input from our citizens.
• Collaborate with department heads, staff, the county administrator, and my fellow commissioners.
• Partner with surrounding counties if necessary.
While this process takes time, the ultimate goal is to prioritize our programs and ensure they are fairly and properly funded.
What’s your vision for the county in four years and then in the long term?
I want to ensure a strong retention of personnel and vital services across our infrastructure, Veteran Services, elderly care, public safety, public health, education, and small businesses. We can achieve this by remaining fiscally responsible with appropriated funds, while simultaneously working to expand our tax base by attracting new businesses and residents to help offset the individual tax burden.
How will you work to make that vision a reality?
I will start by ensuring our citizens share this vision, bringing as many voices to the table as possible. I am committed to doing the background research myself so I completely understand the needs and numbers. If our local tax base cannot sustain these costs alone, I will take our case directly to the state legislature to fight for assistance.
How can people reach you for more information about your candidacy?
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