Council Work
Since I was sworn in as a councilmember nearly four years ago, COVID-19 took us all by storm. George Floyd was murdered, and his death prompted community uprisings and civil unrest to bring attention to police brutality and racial injustices.
Our meetings shifted to a virtual format and meeting one-on-one with community residents was a huge challenge. Many of us found ourselves working from home as our kids were distance learning for school right next to us.
We adjusted. We adapted. We figured it out. And at City Hall, we still kept West St. Paul moving forward. I’m so proud of what we’ve done, and about the future accomplishments for our City.
I have gained extensive civic experience since joining the City Council in January 2019.
My current roles include:
- Park & Recreation Advisory Committee Council Liaison: I work alongside our volunteer committee members, updating them on things we’ve discussed with the full City Council, and providing support in talks about the future of our parks. This includes working with subcommittees that focus on things bringing more art to our City and nailing down plans for a skatepark.
- South Metro Fire Board Member (President, 2021): This involves partnering with elected officials from South St. Paul to provide guidance and planning for the fire department we share.
- League of Minnesota Cities Board of Directors: an organization that promotes excellence in local government through effective advocacy, expert analysis, and trusted guidance for all Minnesota cities.
- City of West St. Paul’s Public Works Committee
- MnDOT Active Transportation Program Steering Committee
- Appointment Committee for Ward 3 Council Appointment (2019)
- Hiring Committee for City Manaager (2020-2021)
- Public Safety Committee (2019-2020)
I testified in front of the Minnesota House of Representatives’ House Property & Local Tax Committee in early 2019 for approval of our voter-approved sales tax increase, which has provided us with dollars we can put towards improving our streets when it’s needed. And in 2021, I spoke to the House Capital Investment Committee to ask for $2.83 million in bonding appropriations for critical wastewater infrastructure needs, like replacing pieces of our sewer system that was built in the 1960s and in great need of replacement to keep waste going where it should be going.
I’ve enjoyed riding along with the West St. Paul Police when visiting as many Nite to Unite parties as possible each August, and showing up at as many events throughout West St. Paul to say hello. It’s important to me that people know their local Ward representative, so they can communicate with me when needed.
