Veteran. Educator. Neighbor. A record of service in Mankato.
“Since 1994, I've supported local students, served in the Army, and taught at the college level.” Toby’s experience spans three decades of military service, education, counseling, small-business ownership, and community involvement in Mankato.
By the numbers
The story
Thirty years of service and experience.
Late 1980s – early 1990s
U.S. Army & Army Reserve
Toby served as an operating room specialist, assisting surgeons in the operating room — disciplined, detail-critical work where preparation is everything.
Early 1990s
Comes to Mankato — and stays
Toby moved to Mankato and earned multiple degrees from Minnesota State University, with a background in science. Three decades later, he still lives on South Fourth Street.
1994
Starts helping students up
Toby began teaching in MSU's Upward Bound program, helping underprivileged high school students get to college — work he has continued for more than 30 years, alongside teaching at South Central College.
~2015
Opens a Mankato small business
Toby became a small-business owner, running his shop part-time for roughly eleven years while teaching firearms safety courses — living the licensing and red-tape burden he now wants to fix.
Today
Serving on the front line of care
Toby works full-time as a security counselor at the St. Peter Regional Treatment Center, and volunteers as a robotics coach, firearms safety instructor, and roller derby referee.
2026
Third run for mayor
After growing his support in 2018 and 2022, Toby is running again — because the case for an efficient, accountable, listening city hall has never been stronger.
“I want to see us prepare for our future… Are we setting things up for the next generation and our kids?”— Toby Leonard
Toby describes himself as independent with libertarian leanings — but what shapes his approach most is his science background: gather the evidence, question the sales pitch, and only then commit public money.
That’s the lens he’ll bring to every council decision — from housing and licensing to surveillance cameras and data centers.
Life in Mankato
A Mankato neighbor, ready to serve.
Support practical leadership for Mankato.
Support for Toby’s priorities has grown with each campaign. Add your support before the August 11 primary.