Anika Bowie
Name: Anika Bowie
Public Office Sought: St. Paul City Council Ward 1
Email: [email protected]
Campaign Phone: 6126955704
Campaign Website: https://www.anikabowie.com/
Twitter handle:
Facebook Page: https://m.facebook.com/Anikaforstpward1/photos/a.302794820421569/420781285289588/?type=3&_rdr
Candidate Bio
I'm Anika Bowie, a lifelong resident of Ward 1 with a deep-rooted commitment to community and economic development. As a consultant who specializes in scaling nonprofits, I've successfully connected organizations to vital grant funds. I come from a family of entrepreneurs—owners of a two-scoops ice cream shop on Selby and a local grocery store. My background equips me to understand the unique needs of small businesses. I also strongly support cooperative business models as a way to generate community wealth and offer more people a stake in their local economy. With experience in government relations and community advocacy, I bring the character, care, and competence needed to serve on the City Council and champion a thriving Saint Paul for everyone.
What style of leadership would you bring to this position?
If elected to represent Ward 1 on the Saint Paul City Council, my leadership style will be deeply collaborative and rooted in the principle that this is the people's seat. Every decision I make will be informed by the voices and perspectives of my constituents, especially those who have often been left out of the conversation. My strength as a coalition builder will be pivotal in forging city-wide partnerships focused on equitable and effective solutions to our most pressing issues. Additionally, my entrepreneurial background in supporting small businesses will be an asset, providing a lens of economic viability and growth to policy-making. In essence, I'll be blending community advocacy, equity, and an entrepreneurial spirit to usher in a new era of inclusive prosperity for Ward 1 and Saint Paul at large.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
My top three priorities as a future City Council member for Ward 1 are deeply rooted in the values I hold dear: children's welfare, resilient communities, and the rich teachings from growing up in Rondo. Firstly, public safety is not merely about policing; it’s about creating environments where our children can grow up without fear. We tackle this by investing in affordable housing and mental health services that address the root causes of crime, thereby fostering resilience in our communities. Secondly, I plan to invest in cultural arts festivals that not only celebrate our rich diversity but also cultivate a sense of belonging for our children. These festivals will be economic catalysts, supporting local businesses and instilling community pride. Lastly, our infrastructure—from roads to housing—should be seen as the backbone of community resilience. By enhancing these, we are laying down the building blocks for a sustainable future for our children. My upbringing in Rondo taught me the importance of community, diversity, and the power of collective action. These lessons will be my guiding light on the City Council, ensuring that decisions are made through a lens of inclusivity, resilience, and long-term community well-being.
What do you consider the biggest challenge and conversely, the biggest opportunity in St. Paul?
The core challenge in Ward 1 is the wealth gap, exacerbated by a history of policies that have failed to center racial equity. This manifests most clearly in our severe homeownership shortage and under-resourcing. Homeownership is more than a milestone; it's a wealth-building tool that has been systemically denied to communities of color. The absence of equitable homeownership restricts community investment and perpetuates inequality, affecting everything from schools to public safety. To rectify this, we must enact policies focused on racial equity, particularly in expanding affordable housing options. Making homeownership attainable for all, regardless of background, creates a stable tax base and a vested, resilient community. It's not just about policy change; it's about systemic transformation to close the wealth gap, turning Ward 1 into a place of opportunity and prosperity for everyone. This is the challenge and the promise of Ward 1, and it's why racial equity will be at the forefront of my policy agenda.
How would you characterize the business climate in St. Paul and what role do you think the city should have in attracting and retaining jobs and new businesses in St. Paul?
The business climate in St. Paul is one of untapped potential. While we have a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and a strong base of small businesses, we often find ourselves overshadowed by larger markets. Challenges in zoning, regulation, and access to capital, particularly for minority-owned businesses, have impeded growth. The city must play a proactive role in both attracting and retaining businesses. We need to streamline permitting processes, offer targeted tax incentives, and invest in infrastructure to make St. Paul an attractive place to operate. Prioritizing public safety, affordable housing, and quality education can also make the city more attractive to potential employees, thereby attracting employers. Moreover, the city should take an equity-centered approach to economic development. This involves offering mentorship programs, grants, and resources specifically designed for minority and women-owned businesses. Attracting new businesses and retaining existing ones is not merely a question of economic policy but also a question of community development and social justice. By making St. Paul a place where businesses of all sizes can thrive, we create a robust, resilient economy that benefits everyone.
What are your strategies to address public safety challenges in your community?
My approach to addressing public safety challenges in our community is grounded in the Justice for All Initiative, which confronts the deeply entrenched systemic racism and injustices pervasive in our society, particularly within the criminal justice system.
I am committed to a Community-First Public Safety approach that hinges on investing in our community's well-being. To this end, I will advocate for increased funding to support community-led initiatives fostering public safety. These initiatives encompass a range of endeavors, including youth programs, mental health services, and restorative justice programs. By empowering our community, we can actively contribute to a safer environment.
A central aspect of tackling crime involves addressing its underlying causes. Consequently, I will work towards bolstering access to affordable housing, nurturing economic development, and facilitating job training programs. Additionally, my focus will encompass investing in education and mental health services, as these are integral to breaking the cycle of crime and fostering overall community resilience.
The foundation of effective public safety lies in fostering trust between the community and law enforcement. Transparency and accountability within the police department are paramount, and I will push for their enhancement. Community-led oversight of law enforcement and the promotion of community policing practices that emphasize engagement and de-escalation are vital components of this effort.
Investing in violence prevention holds a pivotal role in reducing crime rates. By advocating for increased funding for violence prevention programs, such as initiatives addressing gun violence intervention and prevention, we can significantly impact the safety of our community. I also support community-led endeavors that champion peaceful conflict resolution.
Restorative justice principles offer immense potential to revolutionize our criminal justice system and facilitate healing in our community. I am dedicated to expanding access to restorative justice programs and supporting community-led initiatives that champion these practices. By adopting this approach, we can embrace a more compassionate and effective model of justice.
Ultimately, these policies collectively form a blueprint for fostering a safer and more equitable community for every resident of Ward 1. As a progressive candidate, I am resolute in my commitment to tirelessly advocate for a community characterized by safety, equity, and inclusivity for all.
What ideas do you have to address housing shortages and affordability?
The approach to address housing shortages and affordability in Saint Paul involves a multifaceted strategy. Saint Paul renters should be granted fundamental rights, such as secure and healthy housing, safeguarding them from unjust evictions and ensuring equitable treatment by landlords. One vital initiative to safeguard tenants' rights is the advocacy for the Right to Counsel, which would establish a more equitable process for tenants facing evictions.
Furthermore, the focus should extend to providing Saint Paul residents with opportunities for homeownership. This includes offering assistance for down payments, facilitating affordable mortgage options, and allocating home repair grants. By supporting these initiatives, we enable more individuals and families to achieve the dream of owning a home while maintaining the affordability factor.
It's crucial to address historical disparities by implementing programs that promote fair and equitable access to homeownership, particularly for communities that have faced marginalization in the past. By addressing systemic inequalities, we can ensure that all residents of Saint Paul have the chance to build generational wealth through homeownership.
An additional approach to secure long-term affordability is the expansion of the Community Land Trust Pilot. By expanding this initiative and making it a permanent fixture, we can effectively remove land from the speculative market. This move would contribute significantly to maintaining perpetual affordability for both housing and commercial properties. The Community Land Trust model holds great potential for stabilizing property prices and enhancing the overall availability of affordable housing in Saint Paul. In conclusion, the comprehensive strategy for addressing housing shortages and affordability in Saint Paul involves ensuring renters' rights, promoting homeownership through assistance and equity-focused programs, and expanding the Community Land Trust initiative to secure lasting affordability. This multifaceted approach aims to create a more just and sustainable housing landscape for all residents of Saint Paul.
St. Paul candidates only: Do you support the rent stabilization ordinance in its current form? If not, what would you like to change?
I do not support the rent stabilization ordinance in its current form because, quite frankly, it has been watered down and does not sufficiently protect renters from skyrocketing costs or eviction. While I recognize the necessity of rent stabilization to ensure affordability, the current ordinance lacks the depth to genuinely serve those it intends to help. However, I believe we should also be mindful of landlords, particularly small property owners who are an essential part of our housing ecosystem. My vision includes shared wealth models and supportive services that assist landlords in maintaining equitable housing conditions. By doing so, we can create a more harmonious relationship between renters and landlords, building a community where both can prosper. I advocate for a revised, more robust rent stabilization policy coupled with support mechanisms for landlords. This twin approach can ensure not just equitable but also quality housing for all St. Paul residents, thereby creating a more resilient and economically stable community
How would you work to improve transportation options in your community, including improved safety for transit riders, pedestrian/bike, and drivers alike?
Improving transportation options in our community is pivotal for fostering connectivity and ensuring safety for all residents, regardless of their mode of transportation. Modernizing our infrastructure is a fundamental step towards creating a city that is resilient and responsive to the needs of its residents.
To prioritize the safety and accessibility of our streets, I am committed to increasing funding for pedestrian and bike infrastructure. My approach includes advocating for complete streets that consider the requirements of all road users. Collaborating with community stakeholders, I will identify areas where traffic calming measures are necessary, ensuring that streets become safe spaces for everyone.
Investing in our infrastructure is not just a matter of convenience; it's a matter of safety and well-being. I am dedicated to securing increased funding for road repair and maintenance, along with upgrading our aging infrastructure to align with modern demands. Embracing green infrastructure not only promotes sustainability but also enhances our resilience to climate challenges. I also recognize the disproportionate impact of lead on marginalized communities and support the acceleration of eliminating lead pipes to create a healthier environment for all.
Prioritizing public transportation is essential for equity, sustainability, and accessibility. I will work tirelessly to secure more funding for public transportation, facilitating transit-oriented development to create hubs of accessibility. The needs of public transit users will remain at the forefront of our transportation planning efforts.
Local businesses are the heartbeat of our community, and investing in public works and safe streets benefits economic development. By supporting local businesses through streetscape improvements, walkability, and bikeability enhancements, we can stimulate growth and foster a vibrant community.
However, none of these strategies can succeed without the active engagement of our community. Effective transportation planning requires community involvement. I am committed to expanding community engagement in transportation planning processes, introducing community-led oversight for public works projects, and prioritizing community input when making transportation decisions. Our community's voice is essential in shaping the future of our transportation systems.
In conclusion, my vision for transportation improvements involves modernizing infrastructure, enhancing safety and accessibility, prioritizing public transportation, supporting local businesses, and engaging our community in every step of the process. Through these comprehensive efforts, we can build a more connected, safe, and vibrant community that meets the needs of all residents.
What will you do to expand St. Paul’s tax base?
Expanding St. Paul's tax base is a cornerstone of my commitment to building an inclusive economy. With a deep understanding of the economic challenges our community faces, I am dedicated to implementing strategies that drive growth while supporting small businesses, which are vital contributors to our local prosperity.
To achieve these goals, I will:
Support Small Businesses: Growing up in a family of local businesses has shown me their significance. I will establish accessible financial support, streamline regulations, and foster business incubators to empower small businesses, leading to increased economic activity and a stronger tax base.
Local Collaboration: Encouraging local sourcing and collaboration among businesses can enhance economic growth. By promoting shop local campaigns and diverse business ecosystems, we can attract visitors and invigorate our community's economic landscape.
Equitable Economy: I recognize the need to address income inequality and root out predatory practices that disproportionately affect our most vulnerable residents. By championing an "ability-to-pay" standard for fines and fees and maximizing property tax relief, we can promote equity and ensure economic security.
Small Business Growth: Accessible financial support, streamlined regulations, and supportive programs will empower small businesses to expand. This growth will contribute to a thriving tax base, boosting economic health.
Inclusive Strategies: My plan includes building an inclusive economy that considers the needs of all residents. This involves modernizing our infrastructure, addressing systemic inequities, and providing opportunities for economic advancement.
By implementing these strategies, I aim to expand St. Paul's tax base while fostering an environment where small businesses thrive, economic opportunities abound, and all members of our community benefit from a more inclusive and prosperous future.
Are there any services currently provided by the city that you believe should be cut back or eliminated? Are there new opportunities to share services with other entities?
As a champion for public services, I don't advocate for the elimination of essential services currently provided by the city; rather, I see opportunities for efficiency and collaboration. For example, sharing services with neighboring entities could reduce costs and improve service delivery in areas like public safety, community engagement, or even social impact initiatives. Regarding workers and labor unions, their role is vital for a thriving, equitable St. Paul. I stand with unions in their fight for fair wages, benefits, and safe working conditions. Unions are partners in the development of a sustainable, long-term strategy for economic growth. As for new economic opportunities, the Midway area holds great potential as a business hub. By building out this area, we can generate community wealth and more jobs. I'm particularly interested in incentivizing cooperative business models, which inherently empower workers and communities, distributing wealth more evenly. This model could not only attract innovative businesses but also offer a pathway for community members to become stakeholders in our local economy.
Public Office Sought: St. Paul City Council Ward 1
Email: [email protected]
Campaign Phone: 6126955704
Campaign Website: https://www.anikabowie.com/
Twitter handle:
Facebook Page: https://m.facebook.com/Anikaforstpward1/photos/a.302794820421569/420781285289588/?type=3&_rdr
Candidate Bio
I'm Anika Bowie, a lifelong resident of Ward 1 with a deep-rooted commitment to community and economic development. As a consultant who specializes in scaling nonprofits, I've successfully connected organizations to vital grant funds. I come from a family of entrepreneurs—owners of a two-scoops ice cream shop on Selby and a local grocery store. My background equips me to understand the unique needs of small businesses. I also strongly support cooperative business models as a way to generate community wealth and offer more people a stake in their local economy. With experience in government relations and community advocacy, I bring the character, care, and competence needed to serve on the City Council and champion a thriving Saint Paul for everyone.
What style of leadership would you bring to this position?
If elected to represent Ward 1 on the Saint Paul City Council, my leadership style will be deeply collaborative and rooted in the principle that this is the people's seat. Every decision I make will be informed by the voices and perspectives of my constituents, especially those who have often been left out of the conversation. My strength as a coalition builder will be pivotal in forging city-wide partnerships focused on equitable and effective solutions to our most pressing issues. Additionally, my entrepreneurial background in supporting small businesses will be an asset, providing a lens of economic viability and growth to policy-making. In essence, I'll be blending community advocacy, equity, and an entrepreneurial spirit to usher in a new era of inclusive prosperity for Ward 1 and Saint Paul at large.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
My top three priorities as a future City Council member for Ward 1 are deeply rooted in the values I hold dear: children's welfare, resilient communities, and the rich teachings from growing up in Rondo. Firstly, public safety is not merely about policing; it’s about creating environments where our children can grow up without fear. We tackle this by investing in affordable housing and mental health services that address the root causes of crime, thereby fostering resilience in our communities. Secondly, I plan to invest in cultural arts festivals that not only celebrate our rich diversity but also cultivate a sense of belonging for our children. These festivals will be economic catalysts, supporting local businesses and instilling community pride. Lastly, our infrastructure—from roads to housing—should be seen as the backbone of community resilience. By enhancing these, we are laying down the building blocks for a sustainable future for our children. My upbringing in Rondo taught me the importance of community, diversity, and the power of collective action. These lessons will be my guiding light on the City Council, ensuring that decisions are made through a lens of inclusivity, resilience, and long-term community well-being.
What do you consider the biggest challenge and conversely, the biggest opportunity in St. Paul?
The core challenge in Ward 1 is the wealth gap, exacerbated by a history of policies that have failed to center racial equity. This manifests most clearly in our severe homeownership shortage and under-resourcing. Homeownership is more than a milestone; it's a wealth-building tool that has been systemically denied to communities of color. The absence of equitable homeownership restricts community investment and perpetuates inequality, affecting everything from schools to public safety. To rectify this, we must enact policies focused on racial equity, particularly in expanding affordable housing options. Making homeownership attainable for all, regardless of background, creates a stable tax base and a vested, resilient community. It's not just about policy change; it's about systemic transformation to close the wealth gap, turning Ward 1 into a place of opportunity and prosperity for everyone. This is the challenge and the promise of Ward 1, and it's why racial equity will be at the forefront of my policy agenda.
How would you characterize the business climate in St. Paul and what role do you think the city should have in attracting and retaining jobs and new businesses in St. Paul?
The business climate in St. Paul is one of untapped potential. While we have a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and a strong base of small businesses, we often find ourselves overshadowed by larger markets. Challenges in zoning, regulation, and access to capital, particularly for minority-owned businesses, have impeded growth. The city must play a proactive role in both attracting and retaining businesses. We need to streamline permitting processes, offer targeted tax incentives, and invest in infrastructure to make St. Paul an attractive place to operate. Prioritizing public safety, affordable housing, and quality education can also make the city more attractive to potential employees, thereby attracting employers. Moreover, the city should take an equity-centered approach to economic development. This involves offering mentorship programs, grants, and resources specifically designed for minority and women-owned businesses. Attracting new businesses and retaining existing ones is not merely a question of economic policy but also a question of community development and social justice. By making St. Paul a place where businesses of all sizes can thrive, we create a robust, resilient economy that benefits everyone.
What are your strategies to address public safety challenges in your community?
My approach to addressing public safety challenges in our community is grounded in the Justice for All Initiative, which confronts the deeply entrenched systemic racism and injustices pervasive in our society, particularly within the criminal justice system.
I am committed to a Community-First Public Safety approach that hinges on investing in our community's well-being. To this end, I will advocate for increased funding to support community-led initiatives fostering public safety. These initiatives encompass a range of endeavors, including youth programs, mental health services, and restorative justice programs. By empowering our community, we can actively contribute to a safer environment.
A central aspect of tackling crime involves addressing its underlying causes. Consequently, I will work towards bolstering access to affordable housing, nurturing economic development, and facilitating job training programs. Additionally, my focus will encompass investing in education and mental health services, as these are integral to breaking the cycle of crime and fostering overall community resilience.
The foundation of effective public safety lies in fostering trust between the community and law enforcement. Transparency and accountability within the police department are paramount, and I will push for their enhancement. Community-led oversight of law enforcement and the promotion of community policing practices that emphasize engagement and de-escalation are vital components of this effort.
Investing in violence prevention holds a pivotal role in reducing crime rates. By advocating for increased funding for violence prevention programs, such as initiatives addressing gun violence intervention and prevention, we can significantly impact the safety of our community. I also support community-led endeavors that champion peaceful conflict resolution.
Restorative justice principles offer immense potential to revolutionize our criminal justice system and facilitate healing in our community. I am dedicated to expanding access to restorative justice programs and supporting community-led initiatives that champion these practices. By adopting this approach, we can embrace a more compassionate and effective model of justice.
Ultimately, these policies collectively form a blueprint for fostering a safer and more equitable community for every resident of Ward 1. As a progressive candidate, I am resolute in my commitment to tirelessly advocate for a community characterized by safety, equity, and inclusivity for all.
What ideas do you have to address housing shortages and affordability?
The approach to address housing shortages and affordability in Saint Paul involves a multifaceted strategy. Saint Paul renters should be granted fundamental rights, such as secure and healthy housing, safeguarding them from unjust evictions and ensuring equitable treatment by landlords. One vital initiative to safeguard tenants' rights is the advocacy for the Right to Counsel, which would establish a more equitable process for tenants facing evictions.
Furthermore, the focus should extend to providing Saint Paul residents with opportunities for homeownership. This includes offering assistance for down payments, facilitating affordable mortgage options, and allocating home repair grants. By supporting these initiatives, we enable more individuals and families to achieve the dream of owning a home while maintaining the affordability factor.
It's crucial to address historical disparities by implementing programs that promote fair and equitable access to homeownership, particularly for communities that have faced marginalization in the past. By addressing systemic inequalities, we can ensure that all residents of Saint Paul have the chance to build generational wealth through homeownership.
An additional approach to secure long-term affordability is the expansion of the Community Land Trust Pilot. By expanding this initiative and making it a permanent fixture, we can effectively remove land from the speculative market. This move would contribute significantly to maintaining perpetual affordability for both housing and commercial properties. The Community Land Trust model holds great potential for stabilizing property prices and enhancing the overall availability of affordable housing in Saint Paul. In conclusion, the comprehensive strategy for addressing housing shortages and affordability in Saint Paul involves ensuring renters' rights, promoting homeownership through assistance and equity-focused programs, and expanding the Community Land Trust initiative to secure lasting affordability. This multifaceted approach aims to create a more just and sustainable housing landscape for all residents of Saint Paul.
St. Paul candidates only: Do you support the rent stabilization ordinance in its current form? If not, what would you like to change?
I do not support the rent stabilization ordinance in its current form because, quite frankly, it has been watered down and does not sufficiently protect renters from skyrocketing costs or eviction. While I recognize the necessity of rent stabilization to ensure affordability, the current ordinance lacks the depth to genuinely serve those it intends to help. However, I believe we should also be mindful of landlords, particularly small property owners who are an essential part of our housing ecosystem. My vision includes shared wealth models and supportive services that assist landlords in maintaining equitable housing conditions. By doing so, we can create a more harmonious relationship between renters and landlords, building a community where both can prosper. I advocate for a revised, more robust rent stabilization policy coupled with support mechanisms for landlords. This twin approach can ensure not just equitable but also quality housing for all St. Paul residents, thereby creating a more resilient and economically stable community
How would you work to improve transportation options in your community, including improved safety for transit riders, pedestrian/bike, and drivers alike?
Improving transportation options in our community is pivotal for fostering connectivity and ensuring safety for all residents, regardless of their mode of transportation. Modernizing our infrastructure is a fundamental step towards creating a city that is resilient and responsive to the needs of its residents.
To prioritize the safety and accessibility of our streets, I am committed to increasing funding for pedestrian and bike infrastructure. My approach includes advocating for complete streets that consider the requirements of all road users. Collaborating with community stakeholders, I will identify areas where traffic calming measures are necessary, ensuring that streets become safe spaces for everyone.
Investing in our infrastructure is not just a matter of convenience; it's a matter of safety and well-being. I am dedicated to securing increased funding for road repair and maintenance, along with upgrading our aging infrastructure to align with modern demands. Embracing green infrastructure not only promotes sustainability but also enhances our resilience to climate challenges. I also recognize the disproportionate impact of lead on marginalized communities and support the acceleration of eliminating lead pipes to create a healthier environment for all.
Prioritizing public transportation is essential for equity, sustainability, and accessibility. I will work tirelessly to secure more funding for public transportation, facilitating transit-oriented development to create hubs of accessibility. The needs of public transit users will remain at the forefront of our transportation planning efforts.
Local businesses are the heartbeat of our community, and investing in public works and safe streets benefits economic development. By supporting local businesses through streetscape improvements, walkability, and bikeability enhancements, we can stimulate growth and foster a vibrant community.
However, none of these strategies can succeed without the active engagement of our community. Effective transportation planning requires community involvement. I am committed to expanding community engagement in transportation planning processes, introducing community-led oversight for public works projects, and prioritizing community input when making transportation decisions. Our community's voice is essential in shaping the future of our transportation systems.
In conclusion, my vision for transportation improvements involves modernizing infrastructure, enhancing safety and accessibility, prioritizing public transportation, supporting local businesses, and engaging our community in every step of the process. Through these comprehensive efforts, we can build a more connected, safe, and vibrant community that meets the needs of all residents.
What will you do to expand St. Paul’s tax base?
Expanding St. Paul's tax base is a cornerstone of my commitment to building an inclusive economy. With a deep understanding of the economic challenges our community faces, I am dedicated to implementing strategies that drive growth while supporting small businesses, which are vital contributors to our local prosperity.
To achieve these goals, I will:
Support Small Businesses: Growing up in a family of local businesses has shown me their significance. I will establish accessible financial support, streamline regulations, and foster business incubators to empower small businesses, leading to increased economic activity and a stronger tax base.
Local Collaboration: Encouraging local sourcing and collaboration among businesses can enhance economic growth. By promoting shop local campaigns and diverse business ecosystems, we can attract visitors and invigorate our community's economic landscape.
Equitable Economy: I recognize the need to address income inequality and root out predatory practices that disproportionately affect our most vulnerable residents. By championing an "ability-to-pay" standard for fines and fees and maximizing property tax relief, we can promote equity and ensure economic security.
Small Business Growth: Accessible financial support, streamlined regulations, and supportive programs will empower small businesses to expand. This growth will contribute to a thriving tax base, boosting economic health.
Inclusive Strategies: My plan includes building an inclusive economy that considers the needs of all residents. This involves modernizing our infrastructure, addressing systemic inequities, and providing opportunities for economic advancement.
By implementing these strategies, I aim to expand St. Paul's tax base while fostering an environment where small businesses thrive, economic opportunities abound, and all members of our community benefit from a more inclusive and prosperous future.
Are there any services currently provided by the city that you believe should be cut back or eliminated? Are there new opportunities to share services with other entities?
As a champion for public services, I don't advocate for the elimination of essential services currently provided by the city; rather, I see opportunities for efficiency and collaboration. For example, sharing services with neighboring entities could reduce costs and improve service delivery in areas like public safety, community engagement, or even social impact initiatives. Regarding workers and labor unions, their role is vital for a thriving, equitable St. Paul. I stand with unions in their fight for fair wages, benefits, and safe working conditions. Unions are partners in the development of a sustainable, long-term strategy for economic growth. As for new economic opportunities, the Midway area holds great potential as a business hub. By building out this area, we can generate community wealth and more jobs. I'm particularly interested in incentivizing cooperative business models, which inherently empower workers and communities, distributing wealth more evenly. This model could not only attract innovative businesses but also offer a pathway for community members to become stakeholders in our local economy.