Hello Orono, I’m Bruce Lemke!
I am excited to announce my candidacy for Orono City Council, driven by a deep commitment to serving our community and ensuring that every resident's voice is heard. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving on the Planning Commission, where I gained valuable experience working on critical issues that shape our city's growth and development. This role has given me a comprehensive understanding of how decisions are made and how they impact our neighborhoods, businesses, and quality of life.
My passion for civic engagement has always been at the core of my belief in democracy – that every resident deserves a seat at the table and a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. I am running for City Council because I want to expand this sense of community involvement, ensuring that we not only make informed decisions but also listen to and represent the diverse needs and perspectives of all our residents.
As a City Council member, I will prioritize transparency, open communication, and collaboration surrounding municipalities. I am committed to fostering an environment where concerns are heard, ideas are considered, and together, we work to build a stronger community.
As your representative, I promise to…
Watch the League of Women Voters Candidate Forum
Big thanks to the League of Women Voters Lake Minnetonka Plymouth Area MN and the City of Orono staffers for putting it on and to everyone who attended and submitted thoughtful, important questions ahead of time—it’s clear Orono residents care deeply about their community.
A heartfelt thank-you to my wife, Linne, for attending and her unwavering support of my candidacy.
I’d also like to acknowledge my fellow candidates, Jon Schwingler, Aigul “Gigi” Simpson, and Todd Trettel—it was a pleasure sharing the stage with you. And to Ryan Kanive, who couldn’t be there with us. I am grateful to be part of such an engaged and thoughtful community!
Let’s have coffee!
As your representative, I’m committed to ensuring your voice is not only heard but truly valued.
With the quick pace of a special election, there’s limited time to get to know the candidates—so I’m inviting Orono residents to join me for coffee every Thursday in April, through Election Day on May 13, 2025 and on Saturday, April 26, 2025 and Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at the Orono Market.
I’d love the chance to connect, listen, and talk about the issues that matter most to you.
Mark your calendar to vote in Orono’s Special Election on Tuesday, May 13, 2025!
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April 16, 2025 • 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Candidate Forum at City HallApril 22, 2025
Last day to pre-register for voting on Election Day
April 25, 2025
Direct Ballot Voting Opens
May 10, 2025 • 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday Voting
May 12, 2025 • Open Until 5:00 pm
Extended Voting Hours
May 13, 2025
Election Day -
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