Submitted photo.
Election day is Tuesday, August 13, 2024. Renee Leinfelder is one of two candidates running for Price County Treasurer. To help voters make an informed voting decision, Renee shared information about her candidacy.
What is your background (education, family, work, etc.)?
My background includes 29 years of banking experience with a passion for helping people and serving our communities. Throughout my time within two banks, I’ve worked in nearly every customer-facing position, from the teller line, mortgage and consumer lending to branch management. During my banking career, my husband and I, along with a business partner, owned the Ogema gas station for over eight years prior to selling it in 2022. We pooled our resources to purchase the gas station because we knew how important it was to the people in our area. Additionally, some community involvement includes a past finance council member and current board member for Kiwanis.
What prompted you to run for the county treasurer position?
Back in January of this year, I had heard that Lynn Neeck was retiring. Knowing Lynn for several years, I went to the courthouse to congratulate her, when she shared with me that she’d be there until the end of this year. It was Lynn who prompted me to run based on my experience and background. She stated that my professionalism with customers and my many years of banking background would be an ideal fit for the role. She and I had further discussions throughout the next couple of months as I had some questions. I also reached out to Nick Trimner, Price County administrator, with a few questions, as well. There are times in our lives when people see things in us that we may not see in ourselves. It’s with Lynn’s confidence in me and my abilities that I thought I would be an asset to Price County.
What is your definition of an excellent county treasurer?
A person with high integrity and honesty who works in a fiduciary role for the residents of the county. The treasurer must show incredible attention to detail to ensure prompt and accurate accounting for all residents. This is someone with a proven record of fiscal responsibility that’s expected in a government role. The treasurer must be able to work well with all departments as well as with the residents of the county who need assistance. All the above listed items should be done with the utmost of professionalism as a public official.
What makes you qualified for this elected position?
My banking career has prepared me to step into this role in many ways. I have worked with many municipalities on the deposit side, assisted with setting up online banking, and training staff on the online banking system. I’ve worked with balancing general ledger accounts as well as assisting with locating variations when needed. From a leadership role, I’ve written many procedures and was ultimately responsible for the frontline staff training. There are many compliance and regulatory requirements for banks to adhere and I was responsible for the frontline staff’s compliance. I’ve worked with both internal and external auditors over the years, assisting with documentation and answering any questions. I also sit on two committees for the bank, the Asset/Liability Committee as well as the Funding Committee. As a small business owner, some skills were added in the areas of human resource, marketing, and vendor management, as well.
How would you prioritize your workload if elected?
I would prioritize my workload much like I do today, by managing deadlines and looking ahead to the next week’s schedule. I pride myself on being prepared for meetings and completion of work in a timely manner while maintaining professionalism. Multitasking is a strength I have mastered throughout my career. I am willing to put in extra hours if needed to ensure proper work completion.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the voting public?
Price County has been my and my family’s home for several generations. My grandfather and his brother built a successful business that began in Catawba, then later reestablished in Prentice after it was lost in a fire. Our roots started in Catawba, then family moved to Phillips, Prentice, and Ogema. These townships, villages, and cities in Price County matter to me; their growth and sustainability matter to all of us in this beautiful area we choose to call home.
Authorized and paid for by Renee Leinfelder for Price County Treasurer