As local legislators who sometimes have executive power, council members can propose ordinances, set administrative policy, and authorize the budget proposed by the mayor. They oversee all city activities, including city services, programs, licensing, and public safety. Mayoral appointments to city government typically require council approval.Voting in local elections is important - learn more here: Why Vote for City CouncilA candidate forum for this race is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSqBngGf-yY. More MN forums are available at https://www.lwvmn.org/2024-candidate-forums.
I have served by appointed to the City Council for the past 2 year with the election of Mayor Sabas. Prior to that I served on the Champlin Planning Commission for 9 years, the last 4 as the chair of the Commission.
I am not only a 22 year resident of Champlin, but a business owner in Champlin as well. I have raised two daughters here who are now grown and have 5 grandchildren that I want them to enjoy the same great things that Champlin has offered over the years.
I am passionate about keeping Champlin a welcoming community for all walks of life and backgrounds. My focus is on providing the best city services for our residents in the most cost effective way.
I want to finish the work I've started for all residents of Champlin.
My first priority is always making sure that our residents are safe by making sure that our Police, Fire Department, and other first responders have the resources they need to keep our community safe.
Second, we need to continue to maintain the infrastructure of our city, primarily neighborhood roads that need to be replaced. This adds to the safety, property values, and quality of life for our community.
Lastly, I want to host town hall meetings to get more input from our residents.
While we have a diverse Ward 4, everyone wants to feel safe and know that their elected officials are working hard to keep their property taxes as low as possible, yet providing the high quality of service to everyone. Champlin has a lot of programs which are open to everyone to engage with one another.
That said, I want to host community meetings to hear about what all the residents in Ward 4 have to say. I think that can be a great way to give a voice to all our community.
First, I would welcome all of our residence to council work sessions and council meetings. My personal cell phone number and email is posted on the city's webpage. Anyone can contact me at anytime with their concerns or comments. The City regularly hosts open houses for community input on projects that I always attend. Furthermore, as I've said before, I would like to see regular town hall style meetings to continue to gather our residents input and hear their concerns.
As a Champlin resident for 19 years, I have a deep-rooted commitment to our community and a history of active involvement. Since 2015, I have served as an ERC commissioner and have been actively engaged in supporting local families by chaperoning at Jackson Middle School, distributing food, and providing backpack resources. I am a good listener who proactively engages with the community and am determined to be a voice for everyone, regardless of political affiliations. My experience in local government and community service has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to address the specific needs of Ward 4, focusing on public safety, infrastructure, and community development. I am dedicated to creating a more inclusive and vibrant Champl
If elected, my top three priorities will be:
-Public Safety: Improve neighborhood safety through community policing and better lighting in public areas.
-Community Engagement: Organize town halls and surveys to involve residents in decisions about local projects, like new parks or elder care programs.
-Diversity and Inclusion: Promote initiatives that celebrate cultural diversity, such as festivals and educational programs, ensuring all residents feel welcome and represented in Champlin.
To engage I will:
1. Organize Cultural Events: Host events like the Taste of Champlin, youth competitions, and elder bingo nights to celebrate our diversity and bring residents together.
2. Identify Needs and Build Trust: Conduct community surveys and hold neighborhood meetings to understand residents' needs and preferences while building trust through direct engagement.
3. Participation and Create Safe Spaces: Partner with local groups, busines and schools to involve residents in program design
1. Open Communication: Host regular town hall meetings and online forums to discuss city projects and decisions. For example, provide updates on budget allocations and infrastructure plans via social media and newsletters.
2. Public Access to Information: Make city records, budgets, and meeting minutes easily accessible on a user-friendly city website, allowing residents to stay informed.
3. Encourage Community Feedback: Implement a transparent feedback system where residents can submit concerns
