Paul Schluter
Helping is key to enjoying life
Paul Schluter discussed safety issues and the new highway roundabouts with a MnDOT representative at a recent TRIAD meeting.
Although he misses the camaraderie of the folks on the Stanton Planning Commission, Paul Schluter stepped down in 2013 after approximately 17 years due to a time conflict.
In retirement as an electrical engineer since the 1990s, Schluter has not slowed down much.
“I found a Bible College that I was interested in attending (which was) opening a branch in Minneapolis. Attending classes part time included the night of the planning commission meetings. Things appeared to be going well in the township so I wasn’t leaving under duress,” explained Schluter. “There are good people who carry on.”
Schluter said he likes the way of life he and his wife Rosie have enjoyed in their rural home and has always liked being a part of government at its lowest level, trying to follow the township ordinance.
“One resident told me that they appreciated being informed personally when I thought a project might affect them. I liked to keep people informed on what was going on in the township. We worked to accommodate people when they wanted building permits,” he said clarifying, “The problem is that you’re not going to be able to please everyone.”
While he calmed the nerves of people impacted by township matters, his continuing passion is helping people.
On the Library Foundation since 1998, and the board of the Shepherd’s Center of the Cannon Valley since it began 20 years ago, Schluter still found time to help people file their taxes with the free program sponsored by AARP/IRS for 15 years.
Another opportunity arose when Schluter was in extended care at Angels Care Center following back surgery. He developed friendships and now goes back to visit those new friends. “I take some of them out to our farm for a golf cart ride on the trails,” he shrugged, minimizing his kindness.
Now, following balloon angioplasty and insertion of a stent to his heart, Schluter is adding Meals on Wheels to his community involvement, and is facilitating the group of citizens and law enforcement professionals in the TRIAD organization which is working to promote a safer community. He just returned from their state convention and plans to help host that conference in Goodhue County next year.
To the community he advises, “There are lots of opportunities around here. I think you get more enjoyment out of life by helping people. I encourage people to get involved.”
