Columbus Mayor · Nov 3, 2026
Dave
Povolny
Dave Povolny is running for mayor of Columbus in the Nov 3, 2026 election, against Ron Hanegraaf and Rob Busch.
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The race · Mayor
- 01Rob Busch
- 02Ron HanegraafIncumbent
- 03Dave PovolnyYou’re reading
Background
- About
- Electrical engineer, licensed master electrician and business owner who was mayor of Columbus for eight years. He lists more than 30 years mentoring University of Minnesota engineering students.
- Occupation (from candidate statement)
- Nonpartisan
- Campaign website
- www.povolny.com
Dave Povolny took part in the League of Women Voters forum for mayor; Ron Hanegraaf submitted a written statement, and Rob Busch did not respond to the invitation. League of Women Voters Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids Area: 2026 Candidate Forums
On the record: Dave Povolny
7 sourced01City Hall2 sourced positions
Says the city should pay as it goes instead of issuing bonds.
Pay as we go instead of bonding.”
Own statementForest Lake Times · Sep 24, 2026Link
Says the new City Hall should be smaller and attached to the city maintenance building.
Right-size the new city hall by attaching it to the maintenance building, the way it was originally drawn.”
Own statementForest Lake Times · Sep 24, 2026Link
02Property taxes1 sourced position
Says the city levy has to come down.
The levy has to come down for housing here to get more affordable.”
Own statementForest Lake Times · Sep 24, 2026Link
03Home businesses1 sourced position
Wants the city to allow small home businesses on residential property again, with conditions.
I want the door open, with sensible conditions, so people can be honest about what they're doing on their own land.”
Own statementDave Povolny for Mayor of ColumbusLink
04Housing1 sourced position
Wants the city to bring back its own building inspector so permits move faster.
Bring back our own building inspector so permits move in days, not weeks.”
Own statementForest Lake Times · Sep 24, 2026Link
05Council vacancies1 sourced position
Criticizes filling council seats by appointment after members win the mayor's office mid-term.
Whatever you think of the individuals, that is not how a city is supposed to fill its seats, and it's how this one keeps doing it.”
Own statementDave Povolny for Mayor of ColumbusLink
06Past candidacy1 sourced position
Ran for Mayor of Columbus in 2024 as a nonpartisan candidate (lost).
Own statementMinnesota Secretary of State · Nov 5, 2024Link
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