Incumbent 1st Ward Councilor John Schulte V filed for re-election Tuesday at the end of the business day.

Schulte, 35, has been on the Albert Lea City Council for about a year after he was elected to fill a vacancy last May. The seat was vacated by former 1st Ward Councilor Vern Rasmussen who was appointed mayor.

“I’ve had a good experience,” Schulte said. “I find the process challenging and interesting.”

He said he has enjoyed being more involved in the community since being on the council and having more upfront knowledge about things that are happening. He noted he also likes hearing the alternate viewpoints of his fellow councilors — who may at times feel similar or different than he does.

“I like having the conversation,” he said. “The debate is healthy and it teaches me things.”

Looking ahead to the next few years, Schulte said he thinks one of the biggest things that will be happening in the 1st Ward is potential progress of building plans for St. John’s Lutheran Home on part of the former Albert Lea Country Club. This will affect the wastewater and infrastructure to that part of the ward.

He also anticipated some major decisions coming regarding Bridge Avenue and whether turning lanes or other traffic-control measures should be added when the road is reconstructed.

Tuesday was the first day of the Minnesota filing period for candidates seeking city, county, state and federal positions. The filing period runs through June 5.

Look to the Tribune about other candidates as filings are submitted.