Danny Fergen is pictured above with his wife, Kansas, and their nine children.
With no candidate turning in a petition for the position of Mayor in April, the Lennox City Council was left with the task of appointing a Mayor. At the May 13 meeting, the City Council appointed Danny Fergen to fill the position.
With a blend of corporate, non-profit, and church sector experience, Fergen brings a unique perspective to Lennox’s leadership.
Fergen’s interest in Lennox’s government began as a resident, closely following City Council meetings and city minutes, and engaging with the City Administrator Nate Vander Plaats’ Q&A sessions on Facebook.
“My growing interest in the city’s governance led me to consider the mayoral role, as there was an opportunity to step up, fill a gap and help lead,” said Fergen. “Throughout my career, I’ve gravitated towards leadership opportunities, and saw this as a chance to serve Lennox.”
Fergen, and his wife Kansas, are proud parents to nine children, with a tenth on the way. Their family, a mix of biological and adopted children, relocated from Sioux Falls to Lennox three years ago, seeking the charms of a smaller community.
Currently Fergen serves as a manager at Mid States Audio & Video, Fergen’s professional journey includes various roles that have honed his leadership skills.
Fergen’s vision for Lennox is rooted in proactive infrastructure development and fiscal responsibility.
“Lennox has made significant strides in recent years, requiring tough decisions that impact our community and finances,” said Fergen. “My vision is to continue to enhance our infrastructure—streets, utilities, and services, to be proactive. I also think it’s valuable to bring more businesses to Lennox that will boost city income, funding projects. I’m also a strong proponent of reducing our city’s debt.”
Fergen’s immediate priority is understanding the community’s needs.
“Understanding is key. I aim to learn and understand our past efforts, current needs, and community perspectives to make informed decisions that benefit Lennox,” added Fergen.
Fergen also has several long-term goals.
“My goal is to make Lennox more desirable by focusing on safety, financial stability, infrastructure maintenance, and thoughtful community growth, including housing availability,” said Fergen. “Lennox is a safe place to raise a family, I would like to make sure it stays that way. There are times when debt is necessary, but I would like to see us pay off debt as quickly as possible and continue on the path of fixing our infrastructure, well-built streets, and making sure we have adequate and well operable storm and sanitary sewers These plans may evolve as I learn more about our community’s needs.”
Active community engagement is at the forefront of Fergen’s plans.
“Active listening and an open mind are crucial. I rely on our city administrator and Council members, who have deeper ties within the community. I keep well informed about the discussions that are happening at City Hall, from our community members that come in, or call during the week,” said Fergen. “I also attend local events to connect with residents and encourage them to reach out to our city office for questions or concerns.”
One of the most pressing issues Fergen sees is catching up on neglected infrastructure and consistently enforcing city standards. “There will always be resistance from people to implement these infrastructure standards, but in the long term for our city, we will be in a better place,” said Fergen. “I believe there is wisdom in planning for tomorrow instead of making impulsive decisions that might have to be made in the moment.”
Fergen describes his leadership style as one that prioritizes listening, understanding, and operational efficiency.
“My hope is that I am a servant, who is visionary, and authentic,” said Fergen.
And while he knows he may faces challenges along the way, he nticipates that handling criticism without taking it personally will be one of the biggest challenges in his role.
“I aim to listen attentively, educate myself thoroughly, and make decisions that benefit Lennox,” he concluded.
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