Julie Strahan
Name: Julie Strahan
Public Office Sought: Roseville Mayor
Email: [email protected]
Campaign Phone: 612-460-7503
Campaign Website: https://strahan4roseville.com/
Twitter handle: @Strahan4R
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Strahan4Roseville
Candidate Bio
I was elected in 2020 to Roseville City Council. Since that time, the council has passed changed zoning to allow for more missing middle housing, joined the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity Housing Trust, allocated money for small business development, increased investment in public safety and advanced our commitment to social justice and equity. I believe strongly in supporting business, especially BIPOC and women-owned small business, but also wish to protect the frontline workers to not “price them out” of living within Roseville. While I was endorsed by the Roseville DFL, Stonewall DFL, Senior Caucus DFL, the North Central States Carpenter’s union, Local 322 Carpenter’s, and the OPEIU Local 12, I believe strongly that I am able to fully represent all constituents of Roseville. I am strongly advocating for the upcoming city visioning process and hopeful that it will address needs of citizens who have not been considered or heard in prior listening sessions. I will work hard to ensure that diverse stakeholders are part of the conversation and the resulting path forward as a city.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
Environment - taking action on any and all climate actions possible to keep our city on the leading edge, encouraging citizens to assist cities and business in development of climate actions.
Equity - proactively working to diversify the staff, appointed commissioners, and elected officials in the city to ensure impacted individuals are part of the decisionmaking process.
Engagement - leading by example and being present in the community by going to the people for engagement, not just expecting them to come forward. Working to hear voices and opinions of people who may have great need but barriers to active civic participation.
How would you characterize the business climate in Roseville and what is the role of businesses supporting quality of life issues in the community?
I think the business climate in Roseville is good, but disjointed. Some businesses, especially the hospitality businesses, are well-represented by Visit Roseville and the Business Council. Other businesses, like small independent non-hospitality businesses do not have the representation and place for advocacy that they need. I have spoken with the Chamber and other consultants on how we can also engage body shops and other businesses that don’t address hospitality but are a vital part of the community of Roseville.
What role do you think the city should have in attracting and retaining jobs, and what steps would you take to solicit new businesses to, and retain existing businesses in Roseville?
The city partners with area chambers of commerce, and hosts the monthly business forum, however, I want to ensure that we, as an entity, continue to seek to attract other businesses that are missing from the landscape. There has been repeated interest in more pools and pickle ball courts. I would be interested in developing private/public partnerships that make these items reality for Roseville citizens.
What policies, if any, would you support to help employers address the labor shortage?
I support the use of RosevilleMeansBusiness.com and other DEED initiatives promoting Pipeline programs to obtain training to create a qualified workforce. I support implementation of Safe and Sick time to help provide a safety net for employees that would not otherwise have paid time off.
Do you support any specific employment-related proposals in Roseville (such as minimum wage, sick time, or mandatory scheduling notice)? If so, what steps would you take to understand the impact of an ordinance on the many types of businesses in Roseville and how would you define any exceptions to those policies?
I support a mandated minimum wage that is tiered based on the size of the company. I support safe and sick time, as noted above, as a mechanism to protect workers without benefits. I support mandatory scheduling notice - it is the humane thing to do for people who require childcare, transit, or have other positions. Many other municipalities have passed these employment proposals and can be used as a guide in determining these practices that preserve the human rights of employees first.
Public safety and rising crime rates are of serious concern to the business community and residents. What strategies or policies would you propose to address public safety issues facing your community?
I am a strong proponent for the measures that Roseville has taken to improve public safety - embedding social workers and a housing navigator in the police department, providing advanced life saving skills to the Fire Department, and obtaining funding for investigations. Roseville first responders have done a fabulous job in securing grant funding to try innovative projects that highlight best practices. I fully support those that preserve practices that “humanize” all citizens. I appreciate that Roseville does not address poverty as a crime, but as a solutions-based concern.
What strategies or policies would you propose to address housing issues facing your community?
I support the participation in the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity Housing Trust to keep some houses affordable. The zoning law change that allows for other housing types may be a useful tool as Roseville has very limited building space in the near term. City staff and electeds will need to stay addressed on trends in housing as needs change with the demographics of Roseville. Roseville continues to have need for deeply affordable housing and I will continue to explore options for making this possible.
What strategies or policies would you propose to address transportation issues facing your community? Have your strategies or views changed on transportation since we’ve seen shifts in road use, public transportation use, work from home models, etc. due to the pandemic?
Unfortunately, the people most in need of public transportation are front line and low-paid workers who rely on transit. It is nearly impossible to live in Roseville without a personal vehicle. I support continued connection of Roseville to public transit in surrounding areas, especially in east-west corridors, where it is most challenging to navigate. One strategy would be to make transportation free or greatly reduce the price to get more vehicles off of the road, to reduce emissions, and to increase ridership. A more robust system makes our entire metro a more viable resource.
What are your priorities for the City’s budget?
I would like to maintain as many programs as possible as we address the huge impact of inflation on the coming year. I would like to explore the Senior income tax deductions so that those on a fixed income are not priced out of their homes. Taxes will need to rise to maintain current programs in Public Works and Public Safety.
What will you do to expand Roseville’s tax base?
Actively seek new tenants for some long-vacant properties in the city, including the current Department of Education building and nearly vacant office buildings in the northern parts of the City. We have many vacancies and this should include the assistance of the Chamber of Commerce in “selling” the resources available in Roseville to new and potential occupants.
How will you work with K-12 and post-secondary educational institutions and businesses to ensure our region develops and retains an educated workforce?
I regularly attend the Council:ISD623 meetings, and the Ramsey County League of Local Government meetings as the appointed Board member from the Roseville council. I have regular communication with the members of the Roseville school board and the Roseville superintendent. The area will need to continue to support tax levies and referendums to ensure the continued success of the Roseville and Moundsview area schools.
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?
I am not currently aware of any programs that should be cut. There are always room for more ideas but I would support dedicated funding sources before “dreaming” too big.
What is the role of the Mayor in fostering increased minority- and women-owned businesses in Roseville?
For the past 40 years, Roseville has not had a woman or minority mayor. I think that support of a female mayor is the first sign to the community that the voices of women are valued and a vital part of the business community. After the election, it will be vital for me to be an active part of the women’s business community to see these businesses thrive. I currently engage with many small business owners who are women and of color, I see the access to these owners increase, and the credibility increase in a move from council to mayor.
What further policies can Roseville adopt to help the business community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic?
Roseville has worked to provide resources throughout the pandemic, including reserving money for small businesses with social media, working with the county to provide free job ads on the County website, partnered with the schools for positions in the trades, and many other important programs. The next project is to offer grants to nonprofits in Roseville who were adversely affected by covid, by using reserved ARPA funds.
Is there anything else you would like to share with voters not covered above?
Business is essential to the city but ALL businesses, as well as small business owners, must be included in these efforts. I would propose a “scholarship” for new businesses to join the Chamber so that more small owners and BIPOC owned businesses can find advantages of the organization. Within the chamber, there should be subgroups that address issues important to small businesses, like equity, diversity, HR, ordinance and state law compliance, OSHA, etc. The chamber could be a stronger partner with the city to draw in all businesses through a tiered pricing system - and offer a best practices model of diversity, equity and inclusion in business.
Public Office Sought: Roseville Mayor
Email: [email protected]
Campaign Phone: 612-460-7503
Campaign Website: https://strahan4roseville.com/
Twitter handle: @Strahan4R
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Strahan4Roseville
Candidate Bio
I was elected in 2020 to Roseville City Council. Since that time, the council has passed changed zoning to allow for more missing middle housing, joined the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity Housing Trust, allocated money for small business development, increased investment in public safety and advanced our commitment to social justice and equity. I believe strongly in supporting business, especially BIPOC and women-owned small business, but also wish to protect the frontline workers to not “price them out” of living within Roseville. While I was endorsed by the Roseville DFL, Stonewall DFL, Senior Caucus DFL, the North Central States Carpenter’s union, Local 322 Carpenter’s, and the OPEIU Local 12, I believe strongly that I am able to fully represent all constituents of Roseville. I am strongly advocating for the upcoming city visioning process and hopeful that it will address needs of citizens who have not been considered or heard in prior listening sessions. I will work hard to ensure that diverse stakeholders are part of the conversation and the resulting path forward as a city.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
Environment - taking action on any and all climate actions possible to keep our city on the leading edge, encouraging citizens to assist cities and business in development of climate actions.
Equity - proactively working to diversify the staff, appointed commissioners, and elected officials in the city to ensure impacted individuals are part of the decisionmaking process.
Engagement - leading by example and being present in the community by going to the people for engagement, not just expecting them to come forward. Working to hear voices and opinions of people who may have great need but barriers to active civic participation.
How would you characterize the business climate in Roseville and what is the role of businesses supporting quality of life issues in the community?
I think the business climate in Roseville is good, but disjointed. Some businesses, especially the hospitality businesses, are well-represented by Visit Roseville and the Business Council. Other businesses, like small independent non-hospitality businesses do not have the representation and place for advocacy that they need. I have spoken with the Chamber and other consultants on how we can also engage body shops and other businesses that don’t address hospitality but are a vital part of the community of Roseville.
What role do you think the city should have in attracting and retaining jobs, and what steps would you take to solicit new businesses to, and retain existing businesses in Roseville?
The city partners with area chambers of commerce, and hosts the monthly business forum, however, I want to ensure that we, as an entity, continue to seek to attract other businesses that are missing from the landscape. There has been repeated interest in more pools and pickle ball courts. I would be interested in developing private/public partnerships that make these items reality for Roseville citizens.
What policies, if any, would you support to help employers address the labor shortage?
I support the use of RosevilleMeansBusiness.com and other DEED initiatives promoting Pipeline programs to obtain training to create a qualified workforce. I support implementation of Safe and Sick time to help provide a safety net for employees that would not otherwise have paid time off.
Do you support any specific employment-related proposals in Roseville (such as minimum wage, sick time, or mandatory scheduling notice)? If so, what steps would you take to understand the impact of an ordinance on the many types of businesses in Roseville and how would you define any exceptions to those policies?
I support a mandated minimum wage that is tiered based on the size of the company. I support safe and sick time, as noted above, as a mechanism to protect workers without benefits. I support mandatory scheduling notice - it is the humane thing to do for people who require childcare, transit, or have other positions. Many other municipalities have passed these employment proposals and can be used as a guide in determining these practices that preserve the human rights of employees first.
Public safety and rising crime rates are of serious concern to the business community and residents. What strategies or policies would you propose to address public safety issues facing your community?
I am a strong proponent for the measures that Roseville has taken to improve public safety - embedding social workers and a housing navigator in the police department, providing advanced life saving skills to the Fire Department, and obtaining funding for investigations. Roseville first responders have done a fabulous job in securing grant funding to try innovative projects that highlight best practices. I fully support those that preserve practices that “humanize” all citizens. I appreciate that Roseville does not address poverty as a crime, but as a solutions-based concern.
What strategies or policies would you propose to address housing issues facing your community?
I support the participation in the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity Housing Trust to keep some houses affordable. The zoning law change that allows for other housing types may be a useful tool as Roseville has very limited building space in the near term. City staff and electeds will need to stay addressed on trends in housing as needs change with the demographics of Roseville. Roseville continues to have need for deeply affordable housing and I will continue to explore options for making this possible.
What strategies or policies would you propose to address transportation issues facing your community? Have your strategies or views changed on transportation since we’ve seen shifts in road use, public transportation use, work from home models, etc. due to the pandemic?
Unfortunately, the people most in need of public transportation are front line and low-paid workers who rely on transit. It is nearly impossible to live in Roseville without a personal vehicle. I support continued connection of Roseville to public transit in surrounding areas, especially in east-west corridors, where it is most challenging to navigate. One strategy would be to make transportation free or greatly reduce the price to get more vehicles off of the road, to reduce emissions, and to increase ridership. A more robust system makes our entire metro a more viable resource.
What are your priorities for the City’s budget?
I would like to maintain as many programs as possible as we address the huge impact of inflation on the coming year. I would like to explore the Senior income tax deductions so that those on a fixed income are not priced out of their homes. Taxes will need to rise to maintain current programs in Public Works and Public Safety.
What will you do to expand Roseville’s tax base?
Actively seek new tenants for some long-vacant properties in the city, including the current Department of Education building and nearly vacant office buildings in the northern parts of the City. We have many vacancies and this should include the assistance of the Chamber of Commerce in “selling” the resources available in Roseville to new and potential occupants.
How will you work with K-12 and post-secondary educational institutions and businesses to ensure our region develops and retains an educated workforce?
I regularly attend the Council:ISD623 meetings, and the Ramsey County League of Local Government meetings as the appointed Board member from the Roseville council. I have regular communication with the members of the Roseville school board and the Roseville superintendent. The area will need to continue to support tax levies and referendums to ensure the continued success of the Roseville and Moundsview area schools.
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?
I am not currently aware of any programs that should be cut. There are always room for more ideas but I would support dedicated funding sources before “dreaming” too big.
What is the role of the Mayor in fostering increased minority- and women-owned businesses in Roseville?
For the past 40 years, Roseville has not had a woman or minority mayor. I think that support of a female mayor is the first sign to the community that the voices of women are valued and a vital part of the business community. After the election, it will be vital for me to be an active part of the women’s business community to see these businesses thrive. I currently engage with many small business owners who are women and of color, I see the access to these owners increase, and the credibility increase in a move from council to mayor.
What further policies can Roseville adopt to help the business community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic?
Roseville has worked to provide resources throughout the pandemic, including reserving money for small businesses with social media, working with the county to provide free job ads on the County website, partnered with the schools for positions in the trades, and many other important programs. The next project is to offer grants to nonprofits in Roseville who were adversely affected by covid, by using reserved ARPA funds.
Is there anything else you would like to share with voters not covered above?
Business is essential to the city but ALL businesses, as well as small business owners, must be included in these efforts. I would propose a “scholarship” for new businesses to join the Chamber so that more small owners and BIPOC owned businesses can find advantages of the organization. Within the chamber, there should be subgroups that address issues important to small businesses, like equity, diversity, HR, ordinance and state law compliance, OSHA, etc. The chamber could be a stronger partner with the city to draw in all businesses through a tiered pricing system - and offer a best practices model of diversity, equity and inclusion in business.