Minnesota and North Dakota Voter's Guide

Forum Communications Co., in collaboration with the League of Women Voters of Minnesota and of North Dakota, is providing this voter guide to help keep you informed ahead of the 2024 election.

  • Learn where candidates running for office in your community stand on the issues.
  • Build your ballot before voting. Print or email the information to use as a reference when you actually vote.

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Voter Guide

Columbia Heights City Mayor

The role of city mayor can vary from city to city. However, the mayor is usually the head of the city and may represent the city in front of other government bodies. A mayor also usually has a role in proposing a city budget that is approved by the city council. The budget influences the services the city provides to its residents. Mayors sometimes are voting members of city council, and in some cities the mayor is in charge of city council meetings. https://www.lwv.org/blog/voting-local-matters-why-you-should-vote-mayorWatch a candidate forum for this race recorded on September 17, 2026.

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Rachel James
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Mark Miernicki
    (NP)

Biographical Information

Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)

If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)

If elected, what strategies will you use to ensure transparency, accountability and ethical conduct in city government under your leadership? (500 characters)

How will you engage with residents to solicit feedback, involve them in decision-making processes, and ensure their voices are heard? (500 characters)

How will you approach public safety and community policing to ensure the well-being of all residents? (500 characters)

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I’m the best candidate because I bring proven local government experience, deep roots in Columbia Heights and a strong commitment to caring for every neighbor. As the current City Council President, I’ve led on economic development, infrastructure, public safety, housing and state funding, while building relationships across our community. I've served on the Multicultural Advisory Committee to the Police, Parks and Recreation Commission, Planning Commission and the Fire Protection Council. During Operation Metro Surge, I stepped up to support our immigrant neighbors and advocated for all of our community. I know how city government works—and how to make it work better. I listen, collaborate and follow through.
My top three priorities will be: 1) Grow our local economy and attract new businesses to strengthen our tax base and ease pressure on families; 2) Expand housing options, including affordable and senior housing, so people can stay and thrive here; and 3) Invest in safe streets, transportation and core city infrastructure. These investments will make Columbia Heights safer, stronger and more connected. And bonus priority: Update our Parks Master Plan!
Transparency starts with making city government accessible and understandable. I will continue communicate clearly about decisions, spending and city projects; welcome public questions; and create meaningful opportunities for residents to participate before decisions are made. I will expect ethical conduct from myself and city leadership. Accountability means listening to residents, measuring results and being willing to change course when somthing isn't working.
I will continue to lead by listening—through town halls, community events, direct conversations, online engagement and regular opportunities for residents to share ideas and concerns. I want residents involved early, not simply informed after decisions are made. I’ll work to reach renters, homeowners, young people, senior citizens, immigrants, longtime residents and people who don’t typically participate in city government. A city that reflects its people makes better decisions.
Public safety means everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and protected. I will support effective police, fire and emergency services while strengthening trust between public safety professionals and the community. I support data-informed policing, mental-health resources, strong community partnerships and accountability. I am opposed to Flock cameras and ALPRs in our city. Safety and trust must go hand in hand.
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The League of Women Voters of Minnesota and North Dakota crafted the questions sent to the candidates in the Spring of 2024. They reached out to candidates based on contact information in their public candidate filings. Candidates with email addresses were invited and reminded with emails. Candidates with only mailing addresses were sent a letter. Candidates with phone numbers received a phone call as well.

Candidate responses are published as they responded and have not been edited, except when responses were longer than the given character limit. In those cases, the responses are truncated.

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