​HPR Voter Guide

By Bryce Vincent Haugen

High Plains Reader has assembled a Voter Guide to introduce readers to candidates in the June 9 Fargo election. Here we’ll meet candidates for mayor and Fargo City Commission. Each candidate answered the same three questions.

Additional coverage of Fargo and West Fargo candidates

Look for additional coverage of the Fargo Park Board online at hpr1.com. In our May issue, we will cover the Fargo School Board race and interview candidates for West Fargo Mayor, West Fargo City Commission and West Fargo Park Board.

The candidates for mayor

Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney is term-limited and will be leaving the mayor’s office after serving since December 2014, roughly 11 years. Five candidates are running to replace him: Senator Josh Boschee; City Commissioners Denise Kolpack, Dave Piepkorn and Michelle Turnberg; and Human Rights Commission chair Rev. ST (Sekou) Sirleaf.

Josh Boschee

Sen. Boschee (District 44) is a longtime Fargo community leader, real estate broker and state legislator. With more than a decade of experience working on large-scale budgets, public safety, housing and workforce issues, Boschee said he takes a pragmatic, collaborative approach to solving problems and delivering results.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role? 

Josh Boschee: I’ve spent my career focused on bringing people together to solve complex challenges and deliver results for our community. As a legislator representing Fargo in Bismarck, I’ve worked across party lines to pass practical solutions on housing, workforce and infrastructure which directly impact Fargo’s future. I’ve also built strong relationships with state and community leaders, businesses and neighborhood advocates, giving me a clear understanding of how decisions at City Hall affect people day to day.

My background in public service, combined with real experience navigating budgets, policy and community priorities, means I’m ready to lead on day one. I understand both the urgency of our challenges and the importance of thoughtful, accountable leadership to move Fargo forward.

HPR: Top three campaign issues? 

JB: My campaign is focused on three core priorities: housing affordability, public safety and smart growth.

First, we must expand housing options so people at all income levels can afford to live in Fargo. That means cutting red tape, supporting workforce housing and planning for long-term growth.

Second, public safety requires both strong emergency response and proactive community-based solutions, including mental health and addiction services.

Third, we need to manage growth responsibly with how we invest in infrastructure, support local businesses and ensure development benefits the entire community. These priorities are about keeping Fargo a place where people feel safe, can build a life and see opportunity for the future.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

JB: As one of the fastest growing cities in the Midwest, Fargo’s biggest challenge is managing rapid growth while maintaining affordability and quality of life. Rising housing costs, workforce shortages and infrastructure demands are putting pressure on residents and city services. At the same time, we face ongoing concerns around public safety and ensuring every neighborhood feels supported.

But with those challenges come real opportunities. Fargo is well-positioned to be a regional leader in innovation, economic development and livability. By investing in smart growth, strengthening partnerships and planning ahead, we can attract new businesses, retain talent and expand opportunities for current residents. If we get this moment right, Fargo’s future is incredibly bright.

Denise Kolpack

Denise Kolpack was elected to the Fargo City Commission in June 2022 and has served as Deputy Mayor since 2024. Before entering politics, she was Executive Director of the North Dakota Water Coalition and ND Newspaper Association and spent 15 years with Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, which included time as Vice President of Brand and Marketing Communications.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Denise Kolpack: As Deputy Mayor and City Commissioner, I’ve been doing this work every single day — inside City Hall — learning how our city operates behind-the-scenes, building strong relationships with Team Fargo and understanding where we need to improve.

Over the course of my 40-year career in executive leadership and management, I’ve developed the experience and discipline to take on complex challenges and get things done. I’ve also stayed deeply involved in our community by building relationships across Fargo.

I care deeply about this city and the people who call it home. I’ll be a mayor who leads with heart and accountability, someone who shows up to do the work and never backs down from tough decisions.

I bring extensive experience in budgeting, policy and advocacy, which are critical for this role. As an Independent, I’ve built strong working partnerships across party lines and truly value different perspectives; that’s how real progress happens.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

DK: Public safety: I strongly support continued investment in public safety personnel and equipment. I have deep, steadfast respect for our first responders. Also, I believe in listening closely to our community, because safety isn’t just about statistics, it’s about how people feel in their neighborhoods.

Fiscal responsibility: I will insist on a city budget that is responsible, transparent and sustainable for the future. Taxpayers deserve to understand not just what we spend, but why it matters and the results it delivers. That means smart growth, long-term planning, efficiency maximization and open, accountable decision-making via open books.

Professionalism: It’s time to bring professionalism back to Fargo City Hall. I will expect clear roles, ethical leadership, responsibility and respectful conduct. Decisions should be grounded in facts, not dysfunction or drama. I’ve led several boards and organizations throughout my career, and I’m prepared to use the gavel to get us back on track.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

DK: Fargo is facing real challenges, including homelessness, housing availability and affordability and growing concerns about public safety perceptions (especially in our downtown). Addressing these issues will take strong collaboration with our state legislators, community partners and regional leaders. We need to rebuild trust and focus on practical, effective solutions that serve all Fargoans.

At the same time, I see tremendous opportunity in our people, especially Team Fargo. By continuing to invest in our workforce and aligning our strategy with our budget and staffing, we can ensure the city continues to deliver high-quality services as we grow.

I will focus on implementing a clear, long-term strategy that aligns with our Growth Plan, Land Development Code and incentive policies to ensure Fargo continues to grow in a way that is thoughtful, sustainable and beneficial for our residents and businesses.

Rev. ST (Sekou) Sirleaf

Rev. ST (Sekou) Sirleaf is co-pastor of One Family Christian Center International in West Fargo, where he has preached and provided spiritual guidance, counseling and community support to individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. In addition to his ministry, Sirleaf serves as Chair of the Fargo Human Rights Commission, holds several diplomas and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Global Development Studies (Sustainable Development) at Harvard University.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Rev. ST (Sekou) Sirleaf: My background has prepared me to lead by listening, bringing people together and making thoughtful decisions. As a minister for over 30 years, I have worked closely with individuals and families through life’s challenges, helping to resolve conflicts, providing guidance and building strong communities.

That experience translates directly into public leadership. As Chair of the Fargo Human Rights Commission, I have engaged with diverse groups, elevated community concerns, and worked collaboratively with stakeholders. My academic background in operations management has also given me a practical understanding of systems, organization and accountability.

Leadership is ultimately about service, and my life’s work has been centered on serving people, building trust and working toward solutions that benefit the broader community.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

SS: My campaign focuses on three core priorities: public safety, affordable housing and responsive leadership.

First, every resident deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood. Supporting law enforcement while strengthening community partnerships is essential to maintaining public safety.

Second, housing affordability is a growing concern. We must encourage responsible development and ensure that Fargo remains a city where people can afford to live, work and raise families.

Third, leadership must be responsive and accessible. Residents want a city government that listens, communicates clearly and works collaboratively with the community. These priorities are about maintaining Fargo’s strengths while addressing the real concerns residents are raising.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

SS: Fargo’s biggest challenge is managing growth in a way that remains affordable and sustainable. As the city expands, issues such as housing costs, infrastructure and public services require careful planning to ensure that growth benefits all residents.

At the same time, Fargo’s growth presents a significant opportunity. The city is attracting new residents, businesses, and talent, which can strengthen the local economy and enhance our quality of life. The opportunity is to guide this growth responsibly — investing in infrastructure, supporting local businesses and fostering a community where people feel safe, included and connected. With thoughtful leadership, Fargo can continue to grow while preserving the values that make it a great place to live.

Michelle Turnberg

Michelle Turnberg grew up in Minnesota and moved to the Fargo-Moorhead area to earn a biology degree from Concordia College and a mass communications degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead before becoming a news anchor for KXJB and KVLY. An active member of her church, she said she values her faith, family and freedom and spending time with family, dogs and friends.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Michelle Turnberg: As a former local news anchor, I have been in living rooms across the region for years and people know me and trust me. I have covered the issues and I am now ready to help lead on them.

I currently serve as a Fargo City Commissioner and have spent the last two years learning the ins and outs of municipal government and how cities function. This knowledge is vital to the role of Mayor.

As mayor, I will bring a fresh perspective and leadership style, coupled with a deep understanding of how our Fargo operates. People want leadership that shows up, listens and follows through. That is exactly what I plan on continuing to do.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

MT: Public safety is non negotiable. Our first responders will be funded and supported. Period. Ensuring our police, Fire and EMS departments are fully-staffed, funded and healthy. We will also ensure good leadership within those departments.

We will focus on core services. The government doesn't need to be involved in everything such as "niche interests,” "special" projects and other non-essential projects lead to more debt. Along with public safety, core city services such as infrastructure, streets, traffic, water, snow removal etc. are the focus.

We must address our growing city debt and keep Fargo affordable for working families. Families are feeling the pressure and we have to be mindful of every dollar. City government needs to be efficient, accountable, transparent and focused. "No surprises" is what I hear from residents.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

MT: The city's growing debt is a problem. Growth is a good thing, but only when we manage it responsibly. We need to plan ahead so residents are not left footing the bill unexpectedly. Infrastructure and development must go hand in hand. Residents need to remember the city does not have an endless pot of money and our role is not a non-profit.

I am a listener first. I believe in bringing people together and not talking past each other. You will always know where I stand and I will always explain why.

This is not about politics. It is about people and practical solutions. I am focused on the future and what Fargo needs next. New energy and a clear vision can make a real difference right now.

This mayoral campaign is so very important! Now is a crucial time for Fargo in terms of our future. I am excited to get out, meet people and earn their support. This campaign is about your family, your neighborhood and Fargo's future. I will be honored to serve as your next mayor. I know our best days are still ahead.

Long-time Fargo City Commissioner Dave Piepkorn declined the opportunity to be included in this Voter Guide.

Fargo City Commission Race

Because Commissioners Kolpack and Piepkorn are giving up their city commission seats to run for mayor, there is a wide open race for their replacement. There are eight candidates in the running: Derik Arneson, Scott Brekke, Tony Gehrig, Nickie Gullickson, Aaron Hill, Anna Johnson, Chad Peterson and Jeremy Schaeffer.

Derik Arneson

A lifelong Fargo resident and Fargo North graduate, Derik Arneson grew up in the Longfellow neighborhood and has lived in Hawthorne for more than 25 years. He works in IT at Network Center, Inc., helping customers find the right solutions at the right value while building long-term relationships grounded in trust, responsibility and reliability.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Derik Arneson: With years of experience in IT and project management, I’m accustomed to working under pressure, calming critical situations and finding common ground. I’ve also led diverse teams toward shared goals — skills I’ll bring to collaborative, solutions-focused city governance.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

DA: 1. Reduce the burden of specials on fixed-income families by shifting localized infrastructure costs toward a citywide approach.

2. Support a transition from the current commission structure to a council/ward system that delivers more direct, hyperlocal representation.

3. Improve city financial management by scaling back tax abatements for high-end development while prioritizing high-quality, lower-income housing. I believe this can be done by working collaboratively to focus on effective city administration over politics.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

DA: Fargo is a growing economic center, but regional coordination with neighboring communities can be challenging. As we grow into a larger metro area, we need to protect what makes Fargo feel like a small/mid-size city — community, connection and quality of life — while planning responsibly for increased demand on services and infrastructure.

Scott Brekke

Scott Brekke has managed big-box retail operations for the last 30 years, writing and executing budgets to drive growth in sales and profitability. He also serves as a member of the Fargo Liquor Control Board.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Scott Brekke: I believe this experience comes at the right time for the city of Fargo and its current needs. My background in leadership, financial management and operational planning has prepared me to help guide our city responsibly and effectively. I am committed to working hard for our community and helping Fargo continue to grow and succeed.

I am a third-generation resident of Fargo. I have deep ties to this community and believe that, with my skills and effort, I can help improve our city and continue building a strong future for Fargo.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

SB: Some of the issues I will address include:

Eliminating tax incentives.

Reducing or removing special assessments.

Maintaining a balanced budget while conducting line-by-line reviews of all controlled expenses.

Supporting and enforcing law and order in partnership with the Fargo Police Department.

Tony Gehrig

Tony Gehrig is a longtime Fargo resident. He previously served on the Fargo City commission from 2015 to 2022.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Tony Gehrig: I am a lifelong resident of Fargo. I graduated from Shanley, North Dakota State University and retired from the ND Air National Guard in 2024. I have lived in every part of Fargo — north, central and south — which gives me an understanding of the needs of the entire city. Finally, I was a Fargo City Commissioner from 2015-2022, which means I understand the job.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

TG: 1. Balance the budget and eliminate debt by ending unnecessary spending and focusing on the needs of Fargo while rejecting the wants.

2. End all special assessments.

3. Dramatically reduce all incentives and replace that erratic system with a low, sustainable and predictable tax rate that meets the needs of all residents and businesses.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

TG: The biggest challenge for Fargo — and the biggest opportunity — is growth. Growth for the sake of growth is irresponsible. We need to grow with purpose and intention. This means recognizing that not all investments are good investments. Parking ramps, convention centers, performing arts centers, multi-decade incentives and ever-expanding assessments we are told are all investments in our future. All of those are completely reckless and cause nothing but ballooning debt and expanding budgets.

Fargo must focus on the needs of our city first, perform the core roles of local government well, and then invest where it benefits our residents. A convention center will lose money. Parking ramps lose money. Incentives cause taxes to go up. Assessments raise the cost of living for every family. We need to get back to basics, balance our budget, have a low, sustainable, and predictable tax rate, and then, and only then, can we talk about the wants of Fargo.

Nikkie Gullickson

Originally from Wahpeton, Nikkie Guillickson has lived and worked in Fargo for over 35 years, along with her husband, three children and their dogs. Gullickson is a (John) Maxwell Certified Leader currently serving her second term as a member of the Fargo Public Schools Board of Education.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Nikkie Gullickson: While employed with BCBSND (Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota), I capitalized on my education and worked with mainframe and mid-range computers. Additionally, I worked in underwriting, process improvements and corporate communications as Account Manager to the government contracts division.

My employment with Melroe/Ingersoll-Rand Bobcat (now Doosan) was also in the communications department. I managed a large program/advertising budget each year supporting Bobcat equipment dealers worldwide. Alongside both of these positions, I was also employed in credit/collections for MeritCare (now Sanford) and other part-time positions with small, local businesses in insurance, accounting and sales.

As an elected member of the Fargo School Board, we review financial documents and budgets, work as a team to make recommendations, evaluate data and make decisions based on that data along with input from administration and experts when necessary. We review, revise and create policies for better functioning, planning, oversight and monitoring. I served on the Negotiations team for three sessions and am currently Chair of Communications, Engagement and Advocacy (CEA). I also serve as a member of the Health Insurance Committee.

My background uniquely qualifies me for a seat on the Fargo Commission because the work I have performed in the past transfers seamlessly to tasks that match the daily workings of the city commission and are almost identical to the top tasks in work I perform regularly today.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

NG: 1. Transparency: Every citizen has the right to understand the decisions being made in their community with their tax dollars and the impact those decisions have. My votes will be backed by data accessible to the public and information from experts in the community. I look forward to conversations, hearing citizen voices and being accessible and responsive.

2. Ethical Stewardship: Prioritize city spending on basic infrastructure, safety and essential services that benefit the whole community.

3. Principled Growth: Advocate for responsible city development that ensures new projects don’t leave long-time residents or vulnerable neighborhoods behind.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

NG: Challenge: Downtown Fargo fading

Opportunity: City can be a partner/sounding board with business district for solutions to decreased foot traffic, while also including safety entities (fire, police) and organizations offering services to those in need in these conversations.

Challenge: Citizens asking for improved engagement with city officials.

Opportunity: Offer more accessibility to city officials perhaps through “town hall” formats on a regular rotation encouraging conversation, transparency and idea sharing.

Challenge: City budget (deficit and assessments)

Opportunity: Work with city departments to assess core needs, review necessity of consultant reliance, work closely with developers and contractors to create infill/build-out wisely, refresh responsibly (Renaissance zones) and maintain existing infrastructure to reduce/eliminate delayed maintenance cost.

Aaron Hill

Aaron Hill is a Fargo Park Board member, first elected in 2022. He lives in north Fargo with his wife and three children, is a licensed real estate agent with Goldmark and the co-founder of Fargo Brewing Company.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Aaron Hill: I am an entrepreneur — unafraid to dive in and find solutions on the fly. I have experienced highs and lows and understand how to stay calm, rational and focus on the outcome. I know how to lead an organization and the work it takes from top to bottom.

Additionally, I have experience as an elected official on the Fargo Park Board and have demonstrated an ability to collaborate with stakeholders both within and outside a public entity. During my tenure as president of the Park Board, we completed the Fargo Parks Sports Center and Island Park pool projects. We implemented a new governance model, embarked on a comprehensive park system master plan and initiated a long-range capital improvement plan. I am extremely well connected in the community and optimistic about the future of Fargo.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

AH: Balance the budget and improve employee morale. It starts at the top with having difficult conversations and creating expectations to find efficiencies and set priorities, while staying in our lanes. Our job is not to be the experts — the staff are — but we are the conduit between the organization and the residents in the community and we need to follow our internal process.

The Convention Center is an extremely important investment for our City and region, so we need to do it right, which includes securing the most effective location and the right partners.

Invest in our existing neighborhoods and downtown. We need to utilize the existing infrastructure and services. Continued sprawl creates significant challenges in managing resources, so incentivizing smart growth initiatives will be vital to grow strategically and intentionally.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

AH: The continued growth of the city is both our biggest challenge and opportunity. New businesses, new neighborhoods and new facilities are fantastic and exciting, but they create challenges in adding infrastructure and adequate services. Our city leaders need to create the priorities for growth and incentive them accordingly, which includes creating and following a process, while continuing to serve existing areas.

Additional challenges include childcare, affordable housing and workforce shortages, but we have a terrific and supportive community that truly cares, so if we can unite ourselves through commonalities, I think we can accomplish anything.

Anna Johnson

Anna Johnson is a “proudly enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa” and the belief “that every person deserves to be seen and heard” has driven her public service. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Fargo Arts and Culture Commission and has served on the Native American Commission.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Anna Johnson: I am not a career politician — I'm a Fargo resident who has spent years living, working, and investing in this community. I grew up in Bismarck, so I understand this state from the ground up. That understanding gives me a unique ability to collaborate and build relationships. I came to Fargo for college and never looked back — finding my home, my wife and my purpose here since 2007.

As a union truck driver, I understand the value of hard work, and getting the job done right. As a small business owner and muralist, my art is literally painted on the walls of this city. Not only that, I have served on boards and commissions, and coached youth in our community. I know what it means to show up for people.

That real world experience — working with my hands, running a business, helping neighbors, and growing up in this great state — is exactly what City Hall needs more of. I will bring a working person’s perspective to every decision I make about Fargo’s future.

Fargo does not need more politicians. It needs people who actually live the Fargo experience every day and are willing to roll up their sleeves and work together. That’s exactly who I am.

My life reflects the spirit of the everyday Fargo worker. I believe the people who make our city live and breathe — the workers, the artists, the volunteers — deserve real representation. I’m ready to be that voice.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

AJ: A city that works for everyone: Fargo is a great city, but we can do better — and it starts with management of our tax dollars. Right now, wasteful spending is draining resources that could be put to work elsewhere. When we stop spending money on things that don’t deliver results, we free up funding to do the things that really matter, like properly supporting our city staff and services. When we invest in our people, we get better return from our city operations.

When city government is running efficiently and our staff are empowered to do their jobs well, we can tackle one of the biggest challenges facing our growing city — housing. By streamlining permitting, reducing bureaucratic delays and making smart investments, we can make Fargo more affordable and accessible for our populations with highest housing needs.

It’s a simple idea; spend smarter, support our people, and build a Fargo where everyone can afford to live and thrive. That’s the kind of city commission I want to help lead.

HPR: Biggest opportunities/challenges for Fargo?

AJ: Fargo is growing fast, and that brings both challenges and opportunities. Our biggest challenges are simple — housing people can afford, city services that are responsive and keeping good city employees who take care of our neighbors every day.

But our greatest opportunity is our people. Fargo residents are hardworking and deeply invested in this community. Our city government needs to listen to them.

That's exactly what I intend to do. As city commissioner I will open the doors of city hall wider — through regular community conversation — making sure every resident has a real voice in decisions that affect their lives. When people are informed and involved, better decisions get made. Fargo does not just need better government — it needs government that works better with its people.

Jeremy Schaeffer

Jeremy Schaeffer is a graduate of West Fargo High School and has worked in steel fabrication and in sales. Schaeffer also served as Chairperson of sponsoring committee to propose a petition regarding window tint in vehicles in early 2025.

HPR: How has your background prepared you for this role?

Jeremy Schaeffer: Some of y’all may know me as the window tint petition guy. I’m running for City Commission because I love Fargo, I love the people and I love God. I got married in October 2025, and we have a little girl on the way this summer. I’m 29 years old and a 2014 graduate of WFHS Packers.

I can guarantee you more energy, more citizen engagement and absolutely no way of being bought out. I’m doing this for y’all — you deserve someone who will listen, be available, and do everything they can to make Fargo the spot. That’s why I’m running.

Since spearheading the statewide petition for window tint over the last year, I can say confidently I’m able to converse with all demographics in Fargo. My work experience in sales and shipping/logistics has given me strong leadership skills. At the end of the day, I want to do this. That drive alone is pertinent enough to put me at the forefront.

HPR: Top three campaign issues?

JS: Really, the opportunities for Fargo lines with my priorities. Right now though? Debt/budget, citizen engagement, and making Fargo the premier city in the country, man. It’ll take some work and cooperation with the commission, it is attainable. My priorities are simple:

1. Citizen engagement: more people voting, more people showing up to city meetings, and more awareness of local politics.

2. No more property tax increases.

3. Property tax incentives that are fair, realistic, and actually improve our community.

Former Cass County Commissioner Chad Peterson had no publicly available email, phone number, website or Facebook page so he was unable to be reached. 

Reach reporter Bryce Vincent Haugen at brycevincenthaugen@gmail.com.