Meet Geri Aanonsen
Being mayor is not about elevating one person above others. It is an opportunity and a responsibility to serve our entire community. Learn more about my background, my dedication to Taylors Falls, and why I am running to lead with open doors and honest communication.
Deep roots and a heart for Taylors Falls
Nature first brought me to Taylors Falls. I fell in love with the St. Croix River, the towering bluffs, our quiet trails, and the scenic beauty of each passing season. My favorite moments remain the simplest: walking through town, enjoying the river, and greeting neighbors at community events. Over time, Taylors Falls transformed from a beautiful place to live into my true home. Serving through the Heritage Preservation Commission, the Historical Society, and the Lighting Festival has only deepened my commitment to safeguarding our local history, natural environment, and close-knit character.
Collaborative leadership in challenging times
My service on the Heritage Preservation Commission, Historical Society, and Lighting Festival, along with my professional work in leadership, case management, and advocacy, has taught me that lasting progress is rarely the work of one person. It happens when people listen to one another, share information, and work through differences toward practical solutions.
That is the kind of collaborative leadership I would bring to the mayor’s office. Being mayor is not about elevating one person above others. It is about creating space for residents, council members, staff, businesses, and community organizations to contribute. I will listen to the whole community, make decisions openly, explain the reasoning behind them, and follow through. Leadership should bring people together, earn trust through action, and protect the character of the place we all call home.
Family, patience, and community life
Family, local traditions, and a sense of fun are a big part of who I am. My daughter is helping with this campaign, and during several Lighting Festival parades, my son-in-law brought Arnold, our nine-foot-tall green puppet, to life. Arnold was impossible to miss. Some children raced over to see him, while others decided he looked best from a safe distance behind their parents.
I enjoy local history, gardening, and adding color to the places our community shares. One of my favorite projects was painting the Tot Lot picnic table with ants, flowers, and other playful details. It was a small project, but small touches can make a public space feel cared for.
I also wanted chickens badly enough to spend six months working through the city permit process. The chickens eventually arrived, along with a lasting lesson in patience, persistence, and the value of making local government easier for residents to navigate.
"Taylors Falls is ready for thoughtful change, honest communication, and leadership that listens before deciding. Whether you vote for me or not, your concerns will matter and City Hall will be open to you."
Geri Aanonsen, candidate for Mayor of Taylors Falls