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Robbinsdale City Council Member Ward 1

As local legislators who sometimes have executive power, council members can propose ordinances, set administrative policy, and authorize the budget proposed by the mayor. They oversee all city activities, including city services, programs, licensing, and public safety. Mayoral appointments to city government typically require council approval.Voting in local elections is important - learn more here: Why Vote for City CouncilA candidate forum for this race is available at https://reflect-ccx.cablecast.tv/CablecastPublicSite/show/35261?site=20. More MN forums are available at https://www.lwvmn.org/2024-candidate-forums.

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  • Candidate picture

    Charles Austinson
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Raymond Blackledge
    (NP)

Biographical Information

Why are you the best candidate for this position?

If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why?

How do you plan to engage with and represent all members of our diverse community?

What steps will you take to ensure transparency and accountability in city government?

What is your position on the METRO Blue Line Extension light rail project?

Campaign Website http://charlie4ward1.com
Contact Phone 612-443-8710
Campaign Email birdtownchaz@gmail.com
As a lifelong resident of Robbinsdale, I was educated in Robbinsdale's schools, developed my passion for sports on Robbinsdale's parks, and have watched Robbinsdale grow into a diverse and vibrant community. In short, I am committed to Robbinsdale's continued success.

I am an attorney by trade, representing businesses and individuals with their tax, estate planning, and general business needs. As an attorney I am well equipped to assess and improve the effectiveness of the City's ordinances and general governing rules. Having represented businesses in legal matters for going on eighteen years, I know what businesses need from cities and what will attract new businesses to our already vibrant downtown.
Fundamental city services - police, fire, roads, utilities - are the foundation for a well run city. I will ensure that these basic services are provided excellently and cost effectively.

In addition to supporting our vibrant downtown and our parks, I believe Robbinsdale should partner with businesses and non-profits and make a commitment to the arts (music, theater, visual). Robbinsdale should strive to be the cultural hub of the northwest suburbs.

Finally, I oppose light rail (see below).
In addition to always being accessible to residents, I believe that we all benefit from my three priorities outlined here. That said, I believe there are three demographics that deserve special attention when we decide public policy: seniors, children, and our disabled neighbors.

Particularly when it comes to infrastructure and mobility, special care should be taken to ensure our seniors, children, and disabled neighbors can enjoy all that Robbinsdale has to offer. I will ensure this is done.
If elected, I plan to be available for monthly "town halls" at a local establishment where I will field questions about residents' concerns. I also would like to see the Mayor give a "State of the City" address at least once a year. I think it would be fun and it would provide residents a snapshot of what Robbinsdale has done, is doing, and plans to do.
I oppose the current light rail plan down Bottineau Blvd. First, Covid taught us that workers can (and often prefer to) work from home, resulting in a huge decrease in the number of people who need commuter options to Minneapolis. Second, electric buses are a viable, sustainable option at a fraction of the cost. Third, the current plan will forever divide Robbinsdale into two different communities, uprooting both businesses and residents. The current plan is simply indefensible.
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