HONORING THE SERVICE OF OWATONNA MAYOR TOM KUNTZ

On 2024-12-18, Representative Brad Finstad (R-MN-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE SERVICE OF OWATONNA MAYOR TOM KUNTZ" in the House. The speech addressed healthcare and also covered the economy, infrastructure.

HONORING THE SERVICE OF OWATONNA MAYOR TOM KUNTZ

Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 188 (Wednesday, December 18, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 188 (Wednesday, December 18, 2024)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E1300-E1301] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE SERVICE OF OWATONNA MAYOR TOM KUNTZ ______ HON. BRAD FINSTAD of minnesota in the house of representatives Wednesday, December 18, 2024 Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Tom Kuntz, a friend and fellow southern Minnesotan who has served the Owatonna community for the past twenty years. In 2004, Tom was elected Mayor of Owatonna, where he found his true calling in public service. Throughout his five-term tenure, Owatonna experienced remarkable growth, with a revitalization of the city's downtown area, the relocation of Owatonna Hospital, an expanding industrial park, completion of the four-lane U.S. Highway 14 project between Owatonna and Dodge Center, and the construction of a new, state-of-the-art high school--just to name a few. Tom has been a fixture in Owatonna for decades, fiercely advocating for the city's economic growth and development, bringing his vision to the role of mayor. A good leader knows it's not about the position, it's about listening to people. Tom listens more than he speaks, and in his twenty years as mayor, has undoubtedly made a difference in the lives of many Owatonnans, displaying the kind of leadership we should show to our kids and grandkids. He is a true embodiment of who we are in southern Minnesota. Tom not only leaves behind enormous shoes to fill, but also a legacy that Owatonna will remember for generations. I congratulate Tom on his well-deserved retirement, and wishing him and his wife, Shelby, the best in this next chapter. [[Page E1301]] ____________________