Note to readers: The answers to survey questions below have not been edited in anyway. They were provided as is by the candidates.
Name: Paul Barta
Occupation: Choir Director - Grand Forks Central
Age: 35
Family: Married for nearly 15 years to Christine (Pederson) Barta
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Two Sons - Alex, 14, a freshman at Grand Forks Central and Isaac, 9, a 4th grader at Century Elementary
Education: Bachelor of Science (Vocal Music Education) - North Dakota State University
Masters of Music (Choral Conducting) - North Dakota State University
Leadership experience:
A large part of my job as an educator is to be a leader for all of my students. I take pride in this aspect of my job and I do all that I can to be a strong leader through my words and my actions in and out of school. I have also served in the North Dakota Army National Guard for nearly 15 years. This service has provided ample leadership training from the very beginning and opportunities to put that training to good use.
What is something voters should know about you?
I grew up in Grand Forks and spent many years enjoying opportunities the Park District provided. Being back in Grand Forks for the last six years, I get to continue to enjoy all of it and I now have children that get to do the same. I love spending time with my family. My hobbies include music, golf, and the Minnesota Vikings.
Why are you running for office?
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My interest in this position started with a conversation with Mr. Jim Bollman, a member of the church choir I direct at United Lutheran Church and of course the current President of the Park Board. He talked about his service and all of the great opportunities he has been a part of to help make the Grand Forks community a great place to live. This peaked my interest and got me thinking of all of the great opportunities I had as a child growing up in Grand Forks because of the Park District as well as all of the opportunities my two sons have as children in this community.
What is the most important issue facing the Park Board?
The issue I would lean towards is finding the right balance between providing opportunities and the financial means necessary to accomplish this task. The end of the values statement reads, "We believe in providing the best facilities, programs and services within our fiscal limitations." This is undoubtedly a difficult task for the Park Board.
What change would you like to see in the Park District?
I do not have a specific agenda or ideas of change for the Park District. The Grand Forks Park District supplies so many great opportunities for citizens of all ages and abilities. I want to work to continue this strong tradition so present and future residents have access to all the beautiful areas and wonderful activities the Grand Forks Park District helps to provide.
The Park District has greatly expanded its offerings in recent years, sometimes competing with private business. What are your feelings on that?
If the offering provides a great opportunity for the citizens of Grand Forks, it should be given serious consideration. There also has to be consideration given to the overall health of the Grand Forks community, including private business. There most certainly is a fine line and all components of these offerings need to be looked at thoroughly with the whole of Grand Forks at the center of the conversation.
