Why did you apply to the Council?
The Walz-Flanagan administration’s One Minnesota motivated me to apply for a seat on the Met Council. Although I have lived in the east metro area for 35 years, I grew up, went to college and taught in greater Minnesota communities. Given the growing metro region’s complex network of roads, wastewater management and community development, I wanted to step up and do my part to be a voice for citizens in addressing these critical issues.
What are you most looking forward to during your service at the Council?
Building relationships is my primary focus, particularly with local and county leaders and staff as well as residents so I can better understand their issues and aspirations. Those relationships are especially important in effectively resolving challenging issues.
Within the Council’s work areas, what do you think is most on the minds of people in your district?
All of the Council’s primary work areas are important: transportation, water, parks, housing, and planning. Calling out just one is tough! Planning is the key to each of them. What we do today and tomorrow to anticipate and prepare for the future and to build healthier, stronger communities with a commitment to doing it thoughtfully and collaboratively will pay dividends long into the future.
What will be your priority focus area in 2019?
In 2019, community development and planning are my focus. The work the cities, townships and counties are doing is both important and visionary. As a new Council member, I am learning a lot from local visits as well as our committee and Council review of the 2040 local comprehensive plans.
What are the biggest changes you would you like to see in the Twin Cities region by 2040?
This is a big question! Deep in my heart, I’d like our region and the whole state to have a strong sense of connectedness and unity. Our regional successes ripple to other areas and vice versa. In order to attain that, we need to think less in the context of “us vs. them” and more with an emphasis on “we.”
More personally, what do you like to do when you’re not working?
Walking with my buddy, Murphy, an eight-year-old Maltese poodle, is the best part of each day! I also enjoy gardening, reading, movies, travel and entertaining.