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Chris Kostik Incumbent Candidate for Credit River Mayor

Experienced, Steady
Leadership for Credit River

Credit River deserves experienced leadership with the judgement to balance growth, services, and community character

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How I Approach Leadership

I approach leadership by focusing on facts, listening to residents, and making disciplined decisions that balence today's needs with Credit River's long-term future

Responsible 
Fiscal
Management

During my time serving Credit River, we established strong public safety agreements, hired experienced staff, while maintaining an AA+ bond rating and keeping our tax rate among the lowest in Minnesota. Sound financial management ensures we meet today's needs without burdening future residents.

Clear
Communication

Leadership requires clear, consistent communication—internally with staff and externally with residents. I’ve worked to strengthen Credit River’s communication tools, including our website, social media, email updates, and council meeting livestreams, so residents know not just what decisions are made, but why.

Community
Centered Leadership

Listening to residents leads to better, more balanced decisions. I've prioritized meeting people where they are by hosting neighborhood open house meetings and attending Nite to Unite events to ensure decisions reflect the perspectives of the whole community.

Protecting Credit River's Character

Thoughtful planning protects what makes Credit River unique. By relying on comprehensive planning and sound zoning decisions, we've pushed back against premature development and focused on growth that respects our community's character, infrastructure, and long-term vision.


Leadership isn't just about plans, it's about showing up.

 

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Vision & Values


Respect for the Taxpayer

Responsible financial management means respecting every tax dollar. Keeping Credit River’s tax rate among the lowest in the area requires disciplined budgeting and long-term planning that benefits both residents and the community as a whole.


Public Safety

A safe community is foundational. By partnering with proven law enforcement and emergency response agencies, we provide professional, reliable service while remaining fiscally responsible.


Transparency & Communication

Residents deserve access to information and decision-making. Expanding livestreamed meetings, digital communication tools, and neighborhood updates ensures residents know not just what decisions are made, but why.


Public Infrastructure

Reliable infrastructure supports daily life — from roads to wastewater systems. Investing in the right people and systems ensures Credit River can meet today’s needs while planning responsibly for the future.


Teamwork & Community Engagement

Good governance requires collaboration. Listening to residents, working closely with staff, and engaging fellow council members leads to better outcomes and community-driven solutions.

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Experience That Serves the Community

  • Mayor of Credit River (since 2021)

  • Credit River Township Board Supervisor (2013-2021)

  • Township Board Chair (2015-2021)

  • Led Credit River's transition to a city

  • Legislative Committee Chair, Scott County Association of Leadership and Excellence (SCALE)

  • 2026 Chair, Scott County Association of Leadership and Excellence (SCALE)

Hands on local leadership, listening to residents, addressing concerns, and focusing on the day-to-day issues that matter most.

Experience matters- and how it's applied matters even more

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