Candidate profile: NIC trustee, Dean Haagenson

Birth date:  10/15/41

Profession: Construction Executive

Educational background: B.S. Mechanical Engineering, University of Idaho

Public service (elected or appointed offices):  State Representative 1983-1990

Community service (service clubs, nonprofit boards, etc.): Chamber Board, Rotary, Workforce Development Task Force, State Workforce Council, NIC Long Range Planning Committee

How many years as a resident of your city:  36 years

Marital status: Married

Family:  Wife, Cindy

Hobbies:  Motorcycle riding

1.       Why are you running for office?

North Idaho College is a great asset to our community and the region. I would like to be a part of its continued success and growth.

2.       What do you see as the three biggest issues you'll face?

        1. Given the decline in state funding there will be a challenge balancing state, local, and tuition revenues and to do so fairly. Out of district tuition may be considered in lieu of the $500 lump sum per student from other counties

       2. With the student count nearly doubling in the past few years, providing adequate facilities will be a challenge.

        3. Continued cooperation with the other higher education institutions will be essential.

3. If elected, what steps will you take to resolve these issues?

Given that I have not served on the Board, it would be presumptuous of me to give specific answers as to what I would do however, these are my thoughts:

Funding - I would need specifics on state funding but would advocate restoration of historical levels. As a former legislator I may have some advantage in approaching the legislature.

Facilities - My background in construction will provide some insight to the potential priorities and costs.

Cooperation with other institutions - Cooperation relies on effective communication. I am an effective communicator, and can maximize opportunities for jointly-beneficial programs.

  4.  What specific skills or experience qualify you for this job?

My experience in the legislature gives me some insight to the funding process which would be of benefit to the Board. My experience as a businessman will be helpful in the budgeting process. A public entity is not a business, but it can be run in a more businesslike manner.

5. Why should voters elect you, rather than an opponent?

My long time residency, my significant community involvement, and my desire to maintain and improve NIC will make me an effective  trustee.