See all posts in the Carver County Commissioners series

(Hear from Carver County Commissioners is a regular feature where Carver County commissioners share updates, insights, and messages with their communities. Commissioner Lisa Anderson is providing the current edition.)

As I step into my role as County Commissioner for District 1, I have been overwhelmed by the warm welcome from my fellow elected leaders, county leadership and the entire Carver County community. While I am new to the County Board, I am not new to public service, having served more than 13 years on the Eastern Carver County School Board. I have always believed that in government, success is not just about what you do—it’s also about how you do it. Collaboration has long been my guiding principle and the more I learn about the county and the services we provide, the more I am convinced that local government is truly a team sport.

In January, the Carver County Board took a step toward greater transparency by unanimously approving the recording of all meetings, including work sessions. The board also initiated a strategic planning process to clarify the county’s direction and to strengthen our strategic priorities. These early decisions set the tone for a spirit of collaboration—one that stands in refreshing contrast to the divisiveness often seen at the state and federal levels.

My focus in these first few months has been on developing strong relationships within the Carver County organization. I have been impressed with leaders at every level who have welcomed me with openness and a genuine commitment to continuous improvement.

While the breadth of services that Carver County offers is impressive, what stands out even more is the dedication of the people who serve our community, often supporting individuals and families through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Carver County consists of 11 cities, 10 townships and 35 schools, 25 of which belong to five different public school districts, along with 10 private schools. We also have a vibrant business community supported by two chambers of commerce, five downtown business associations and dozens of nonprofits. 

Each of these organizations operates independently but they intersect with the county in critical ways. Like any great team, our success depends on how well we coordinate and support one another. The county plays several key roles, including:

• Supporting schools by providing critical mental health and public health services, school-based social workers and policing.
• Helping our cities grow by building the infrastructure to build homes, support economic development, as well as maintain roads for safe travel, staff and stock our libraries and provide contracted law enforcement services.
• Walking alongside individuals and families in need to help them regain stability during difficult times.
• Protecting our natural resources by offering recycling services, maintaining water quality and managing solid waste.
• Ensuring public safety through law enforcement, the judicial system, detention facilities and emergency management. 
• Providing child protection and mental health services to safeguard the wellbeing of our most vulnerable residents.

Just like in sports, understanding our roles and responsibilities is key to working together effectively. As Carver County continues to grow, strengthening our relationships with community partners is essential. Knowing each entity’s goals and functions helps us understand what position we are playing and how we can best support one another to serve the entire community.

In the game of local government, there is always room for more players. Depending on your interests, I encourage you to get involved, whether by serving on county, city or school committees; volunteering with a nonprofit or service organization or simply staying informed by attending or listening to the recording of a public meeting. When we work together as a team, we create a stronger, more connected community for everyone.

Please join our team to ensure that Carver County remains a great place to live, work and play!