Patty Robles: On behalf of the Brooklyn Park Osseo Maple Grove League of Women Voters, I would like to welcome you to the Brooklyn Center City Council Candidate Forum. I am Patty Robles, moderator for tonight’s discussion. The BPOMG League of Women Voters does not support or oppose any political parties or candidates. The BPOMG League of Women Voters has a longstanding history of providing unbiased candidate and issue information that is widely used by voters regardless of their political beliefs. We sponsor tonight’s forum as a public service to the community. It is your opportunity to hear the candidates discuss important issues face to face. These expressed tonight are those of the candidates and not those of BPOMG LWV. Candidates running for Brooklyn Center City Council are Gretchen Enger, Andrew Johnson, Kris Lawrence-Anderson, Laurie Ann Moore. We will start the candidate forum with opening statements. Each candidate will be given two minutes for their opening statement. Opening statements will be in alphabetical order. However, during the forum, questions will be answered in a rotating manner. Candidates will have one minute to respond to questions and one minute for their closing statement. Candidates, please note that there are timekeepers who will signal you by raising the signs when you have 15 seconds left and when it is time to stop talking. I will gently interrupt you if you run over time. Let’s begin our opening statements from each candidate. We’re going to begin first with Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: Thank you. Hi everybody, I’m Gretchen Enger. I’ve been a Brooklyn Center resident since 1999 with my husband and my two kids. We chose the city basically because of its potential, its location, and the sense of community. In my roles as Housing Commission Chair and Finance Commissioner, I actively engage with our community and I regularly attend City Council meetings to keep tabs on what’s going on in the city and what works and what doesn’t work. To build a safe and thriving community, my vision for Brooklyn Center starts with public safety and you’ll hear this from all of the candidates, I’m sure. This means fully funding the police department, establishing a 24-hour duty crew for our fire department, and supporting the alternative response program that recently launched that provides those in crisis without police intervention. Next we need to focus on diverse commercial development. It’s time to move beyond talking and start building. Expanding our commercial tax base will help ease the burden on homeowners. Finally, I believe in common sense government that benefits all residents. This means being transparent in our decision making, prioritizing effective communication, and ensuring that every voice is heard. I want to create an environment where all residents feel valued and have access to the resources and support that they need. Outside of my work, with my work life in the city, family is my top priority. I love reading, I’m a documentary enthusiast, and I love volunteering in the community. Most of all, I’m always on the quest for the perfect chicken wing. I want to thank the League of Women Voters, I want to thank our residents, city staff for putting this together, for everybody attending tonight and my colleagues up here that are here tonight as well. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: Yes, I’d like to reiterate a thank you to the League of Women Voters BPOMG chapter and the residents who came out tonight to participate in this forum and ask their questions. My name is Andrew Johnson and this is actually my second time running for city council. I was privileged two years ago to get 2,043 votes in the general election and while that wasn’t enough to win one of the available seats at that time, it wasn’t a loss because there was support for me and that motivated me to try again and attempt to represent the views of the residents of Brooklyn Center. I’m currently, I’ve been a resident of Brooklyn Center for over a decade with my wife and my son who’s eight years old. I’m currently employed as a software developer at Nystrom and Associates which is a large and growing chain of behavioral health and substance use disorder clinics in the Midwest. Some of the strengths I bring are that I’m a good listener, hard worker, and an innovator with a strong moral compass and I would consider it a privilege to receive your vote for Brooklyn Center City Council.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Good evening everyone. First, I’d like to thank the League of Women Voters for continuing to offer this opportunity for residents and businesses to learn a little bit about who may represent them in the future. I think the first thing I want to say in terms of why any of us are running is it’s certainly not for fame or for the money. I ran because my parents believed that civic engagement was extremely important and that we should give back to our communities. I believe that local politics matter, period. What we see around us, where we live, work, and play is most important. We aren’t as engaged with what’s going on at the state or federal level. And I want to move forward, not backwards. We’ve come a long way in the last few years and I want to continue to move this community forward. I’m a 25-year resident of the Northwest suburbs. I raised my daughter, Lexi Ann, who is in the audience. In Crystal, I always felt that Brooklyn Center was just an extension of Crystal. I remember her toddling through the mall at three years old with her kitty in her blanket. I’m a licensed social worker. I previously served on the Crystal City Council for eight years. I’m currently a member of the Brooklyn Center Charter Commission. I’m also a member of the Brooklyn Center Lady Lions and serve as their service project director. One thing I want to leave you with is that as a Brooklyn Center council candidate and hopefully be elected, I want to lift us all up. I want to bring us all together, not single out any individual, but together we can lift each other up and move forward. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Just to let you all know, if you need me to repeat a question, just ask me and I’m happy to do that for you. Thank you for your opening statements and giving the audience a chance to learn a little bit about you.
Audience: Kris.
Patty Robles: Oh, Kris. How did I do that, Kris? Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Thank you.
Patty Robles: Everybody’s paying attention. That’s great. Let’s have your opening statement. Okay.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Thank you, everyone, for being here and of course, thank the League of Women Voters. I am currently serving on the City Council and have, this will be my 12th year. As a loyal resident of 37 years, I’m passionate about our community. I started my volunteer service in Brooklyn Center in 1999 and served on the Housing Commission. For 12 years. I’m currently serving on the Charter Commission as well and frequently volunteer for CEAP. I’m a watch captain for the past 20 years. I am a respectful listener and consider all perspectives when making decisions. As a devoted council member since 2012, I have demonstrated common sense, sound judgment, and remain calm under pressure. I believe many of the attributes that I can bring are my experience, dedication to our community. I remain calm under pressure. I use common sense when making decisions. I attempt to be measured in my actions and words and my focus is always on our residents and our businesses. My top priorities: enhance community safety, promote economic development, fiscal accountability, foster community inclusivity, and maintain community standards. And I would appreciate your vote. Thank you very much.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Now, thank you for your opening statements and giving the audience a chance to learn a little bit about you. We’ll start with the first question. Remember you have one minute to respond and we’ll start first with Laurie Ann Moore. The question is, what actions, if any, would you take to attract new businesses and retain the current ones?
Laurie Ann Moore: Well, I think the first step is revitalizing our business organization that used to get together frequently and discuss what was going on with their businesses. It was very active at one point and then kind of fell by the wayside. I think that’s one thing to lift up and promote and I do believe that some of the current council members are working with businesses to kind of revitalize that business group. I think some of it has to do with how residents even feel about our city in terms of safety, crime, what sort of prevention tactics are out there. So that’s another thing to build on. Some of the things that businesses see as kind of hindering that safe environment, but also continue to work with Northwest Suburb Tourism.
Patty Robles: That one minute goes quickly. Our second responder will be Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Please repeat the question.
Patty Robles: What actions, if any, would you take to attract new businesses and retain the current ones?
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Thank you for that question. In my opinion, it is the reputation of our city reducing crime, which will help our businesses. The Transit Center, I don’t think that we can do any much about it, but that has been not a positive experience for our city. So business development is very important and offering support to our existing businesses so that they can thrive. I had been a member of the former Brooklyn Center Business Association for, I don’t know, well over a decade, and I’m part of several people that are trying to reactivate a new business group. So, yep, I’m just going to leave it at that.
Patty Robles: Thank you.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Reduced crime businesses will come.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: Small companies are the backbone of our economy, right, and our local business, and we want to attract them to bring jobs into our city that will help us have stable housing. I have been meeting with business managers and owners. I’ve been with three discussions with them. Public safety is a huge concern for them. They’ve had to hire local security companies to protect their businesses because they have a lot of shrinkage. A lot of that is due to crime with the transit hub, and I know that they’ve been working with Metro Transit to kind of help alleviate some of that stuff. We already have some great businesses in the city, and we’ve opened up more, which is really great to see. The latest city newsletter lists a bunch of those that have recently opened, but I think it’s really important that we continue to have conversations with those businesses, and I think part of that is we should do some economic development outreach and offer programs where we can educate them on how they can sustain and build their businesses in our local economy. And I think that there are different… Thank you.
Patty Robles: Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: Well, a number of years ago, a member of my church who was also a business owner of Estella’s Kitchen here in Brooklyn Center, I don’t believe she’s in business anymore here, but she was broken into, and my church was able to come around her and help her recover from that incident. So I’m in agreement with a number of others up here who have stated that public safety is paramount to attracting and retaining businesses. I support a fully staffed police department and the alternative response model as well, but I think if we improve the public safety condition, that businesses will feel safe and their customers will as well, and we’ll be able to attract and retain current businesses.
Patty Robles: Thank you. All right, the next question is… We’re going to start with Andrew Johnson. Since the Opportunity Site has not been successful, do you believe it’s time to sell the empty land? Why or why not?
Andrew Johnson: I think that we’ve done a lot of talking about the Opportunity Site, and that certainly is an option that would be considered if there are no viable plans to develop that site. The longer it sits, the less businesses we have and the less utilized that space is. So that’s definitely something I would consider if there’s no viable options that come forward.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: Thank you for that question. So we need to keep in mind that no single project can meet our community’s needs. Part of the problem with the Opportunity Site is we’ve been talking about it, gosh, I want to say it’s been almost 20 years now, I think, and the challenge with what’s going on now is one of the main builders did not… He did not complete what he had wanted to do. And so I am open to having discussions with other developers to see what other opportunities there are. I’ve also talked with some city staff about different ideas that we can put forth on the Opportunity Site. So I don’t think it’s dead in the water yet, but like I’d said in my opening statement, it’s kind of time to stop talking and start building and how can we move forward with meeting with potential builders to kind of get moving and break some ground and get some development going on in the city. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Yes, my fellow candidates pretty much summed up what I wanted to say as well. The Opportunity Site has been a topic of conversation since I was serving on the Crystal City Council and Mayor Kragness was the mayor. I’m certainly… The city should be open to any possibilities for what, 80 to 100 acres of land there. There’s other opportunities around the city as well. What sort of incentives can we give for redevelopment, whether that’s small, large, commercial, industrial, you know, with the interest rates finally being cut back. That was a blockade for the previous Alatus who was interested in developing that area. And to think outside the box, I think so often we get into this rut of doing the same thing over and over, but what are some new ideas that residents and businesses and other developers can share with the city?
Patty Robles: Thank you. And Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Thank you. I’m open to that option, yet I was on the council when we selected Alatus with Bob Lux. I believe he’s still passionate about the project. Due to the economy, there’s been funding issues for him. I’m not ready to give up on that vision, yet I believe we need to keep our options open. That could be a great development for additional housing. I like the plan that his company had. I think we just need to perhaps figure out what the timeline is. You know, six months a year we need a decision because we need to move on.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Next question, we’re going to start with Kris Lawrence-Anderson. What are your ideas to increase city revenues and/or decrease city expenses?
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Well, redevelopment would increase the revenues, so that is a really critical part. You know, we have open spaces, Shingle Creek Crossing isn’t completed yet, so increasing the tax base. And then also, we’re going through the budget right now, looking at areas where we need to reduce our expenses and be realistic. So, a two-pronged approach.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Can you repeat the question, please, Patty?
Patty Robles: What are your… thank you… what are your ideas to increase city revenues and or decrease city expenses?
Laurie Ann Moore: Being that the City of Brooklyn Center is an inner-ring suburb, it’s difficult to expand in terms of revenue, except many of us candidates have talked about redeveloping, trying to attract commercial, industrial and other to offset the property tax burden. The audit was just reviewed by the council on Monday, and certainly there are some areas that expenditures could be reduced. We’re looking at an 8.98 property tax increase, and we are one of the poorest suburbs in the metro, and yet we, in comparable cities, we have an extremely high tax rate. We need to flip that around, and again, I think the review of the audit will bring some ideas to the council.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: Yeah, no new ideas that are super different from the colleagues up here, but sticking to a budget is important. I think there probably are some areas where we could make sensible cuts so that we’re spending less, and we just need to be considerate. A lot of politicians love to spend taxpayer dollars, but we need to direct those taxpayer dollars to areas that are a value proposition, so whether it be public services or investments that make sense, and there is a return on those investments.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: Can I just say D, all of the above? I think that Laurie and Kris really kind of hit the nail on the head where we just did get a high level presentation of the audit last night, and looking for some of the deep numbers on what all this means to the city, and being on the Finance Commission and sitting through budget season and looking at the pages and pages of where people need to make cuts, where we’re making money, where we’re not making money. I think that with our finance department, they’ve really started cracking down on looking at really what the city is spending, and like Laurie said, we are a very poor city, and economic development will help. It’s one of those things where I support that, but it’s not going to happen overnight, and so I think that we really need to look at, take a hard look at where the city is spending and where it’s not spending, and what we need to cut, and come up with really some commonsense ideas on moving forward.
Patty Robles: Thank you. We’re going to start with Gretchen Enger first, and how would you as a city leader improve upon relationships within the many diverse families in our vast and enriched community?
Gretchen Enger: So I think being a city leader is really about building relationships, and one of the things that I pride myself on is the ability to talk to anybody and everybody. I’m not going to talk to somebody because I don’t believe in what they have to say. We’re all imperfect human beings. We all have experiences, and I want to learn from everybody. I want to be sure that I can listen and agree to disagree if need be, but I’m all about building relationships. I think you’ll probably hear me say this over and over again. I think relationships are the backbone of being a city leader, and if we don’t have those relationships, we can’t have those conversations. Sometimes that means getting out into community and talking to people where they’re at because sometimes they might not be comfortable coming to City Hall to have a conversation, and so my goal is to go out and speak to people where they’re at, and again I’m just going to say relationships are key and just end it at that.
Patty Robles: All right, thank you. Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: Yeah, I am also willing to meet people where they’re at. I think it’s important to make yourself available outside of official capacities. These titles are great, but they represent an opportunity to serve, and so that’s how I view this role, is being a servant of the community, whether you are somebody who feels comfortable coming to a venue like this or somebody who doesn’t. So I’m willing to meet people where they’re at, whoever they are, and to listen, and listen to gain understanding of who the person is and what their needs are.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Patty, could you repeat the question?
Patty Robles: How would you as a city leader improve upon relationships within the many diverse families in our vast and enriched community?
Laurie Ann Moore: Yeah, I think number one is that a city leader, city council member needs to be engaged in the community. That means identifying the various groups that are there. For instance, CAPI, when you look at Asian Pacific Islanders, or ACER that represents a very diverse group of African identified individuals. There’s an extremely diverse Latinx community of which I’m just learning more from, not only in my neighborhood, but around. To be effective, you need to make that connection with any group you can that’s not like yourself, that you don’t know enough about. In order to truly be, as Andrew said, a servant leader, be engaged in the community, find out more, get involved. Our Lady Lions group gets involved with CAPI and other organizations, and that’s the way to really represent and be a part of the community and lift all those up and you’re learning along the way.
Patty Robles: Thank you. And finally, Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Thank you. As far as improving relationships, I think it’s having dialogue with the very intentional purpose of understanding. The reason I came to this community 27 years ago and have chosen to stay is I like the richness of our diversity. When my son was almost ready to go to school, my husband and I had a dialogue. It’s like, do we want to move out to Rogers or do we want to stay in Brooklyn Center and make certain our children had relationships with people that didn’t look like them? My husband and I both grew up in very white communities and I wanted my children to have friends that didn’t look like them. And have that rich experience.
Patty Robles: Thank you. The next question, we’re going to start with Kris Lawrence-Anderson. And this sort of piggybacks on the previous question. How do you plan to increase resident engagement in more disenfranchised communities within our center, our city?
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Repeat that one more time.
Patty Robles: How would you plan to increase resident engagement in more disenfranchised communities within our city?
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: I think it is important to have a variety of opportunities in our city for, as I just said, people that don’t look like you, everyone’s coming together for a common cause and just getting to know one another and to break down the stereotypes and just engage different events. And I think that is, I’m forgetting, Juneteenth and the parade and just get everyone together in the same place and realize you have more in common than you don’t. And I think that is how to do that. I don’t necessarily know, but I think that is the key to breaking down the disconnect that many groups have. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Well, first off, I just want to commend the mayor and likely the city council. On Monday, they recognized Open Arms, which is a provider for individuals with disabilities. That’s what the city council should do more of, is invite those groups into the city, into events. We had a cultural fair over at the park over here, Centennial, a couple years ago. We didn’t have it this last year, and it was phenomenal. There was quite a group of various different rich cultures and traditions and even religions. But it’s the opportunities, as Kris mentioned. Are we making sure that those are shared around the community and all the different venues where different groups would actually read them? Less than 1% of the electorate is involved in local politics, and yet the disenfranchisers are thinking, what, 0.1%? So any opportunity we can share opportunities would be great for the city.
Patty Robles: Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: Yeah, so I recently had an opportunity to go to the Faith and Blue Breakfast, which was the Brooklyn Center Police Department and Lutheran Church of the Master partnering together to build some bridges. That in and of itself is a great type of event. But I was chatting with a resident named Allan about our diverse neighbors, and I kind of came to the conclusion that we need more events with food. Because people talk while they’re eating food, and it’s a great opportunity to build bridges. So that’s my answer.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: My first thought is let’s ask them. So we have a lot of really great opportunities that we have in the city. Andrew mentioned the Faith and Blue Pancake Breakfast. I was there as well. The Farm Fresh that CEAP puts on, I volunteered a couple times for that this summer, and it was a huge hit. And people didn’t realize that we had stuff like this in our community. I think that we talk about getting out in community, meeting people where they’re at, and that’s why I said let’s ask them. Let’s ask them how we can engage with them, because we might not know where they might feel comfortable engaging with us. Andrew is right when he said if there’s food, people will come. The neighborhood meetings that we have every year always have a food truck there, and people come and eat. One of the things that I was thinking about for the opportunity site is we have a lot of food trucks in our city. Let’s have a food truck fest at our opportunity site. That would really get people to come. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. We’re going to start with Andrew Johnson for the next question. What is your position on MnDOT’s Highway 252 I-94 project?
Andrew Johnson: Well, that’s a fun one. I agree with the task force in their assessments that safety is paramount to anything we do with Highway 252. So that would be my priority as well. I think the council is right to voice their concerns with MnDOT about that project and make their demands. And ultimately, I think MnDOT is going to do what MnDOT is going to do. But we should put our best efforts and best foot forward to shape that project such that it benefits the residents of Brooklyn Center.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: Traffic congestion and safety in addition to community displacement has been a huge issue with the 252 topic. I think Andrew’s right that MnDOT is going to do what they want to do. But I’ve sat and listened to the 252 safety task force and a lot of the concerns that they’ve had and some of the challenges that they’ve had. I’ve attended some of the MnDOT pop-up events. And I think that it’s a very, very difficult decision to make. You know, we’re looking at losing a lot of houses, $400,000 a year in tax-based revenue. I think that yesterday at the City Council meeting, there were a couple of things that came out in the draft letter to MnDOT. I think two of the key things are the payment in lieu of taxes and the zero cost share participation where we’re going to force their hand on some stuff. But there’s still a lot of work to do, a lot of decisions to be made. And it’s just it’s something that is just a really, really tough conversation to have.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: At our meeting, the City Council meeting last night, we did take a position with MnDOT. There were two proposals and we sent it back to the drawing board with some negotiations as far as concessions for the tax revenue we would be losing, as well as the unfortunate displacement of many families. During a break, I spoke with many of the people from that neighborhood. I know it’s a tragic road. I just am not convinced that what has been presented to us is going to solve the safety issue. So my position is something needs to be done, but I’m still not convinced that what they’re proposing is going to solve the safety issue. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Yes, Patty, can you repeat the question?
Patty Robles: What is your position on MnDOT’s Highway 252 I-94 project?
Laurie Ann Moore: Well, my position is that one of the best things that we did as a city, including to the right, Kris Lawrence-Anderson, was develop the 252 task force. A group of experts who have pine, well, clearly are in many cases, but mostly in most cases, more expert than the MnDOT crew. That was the best thing that we did. They have presented information regarding safety, environmental impacts, talked about one thing I remember from their presentation was bad design on top of bad design. That’s what we’re doing. You know, years ago, it was bad, and now we’re going to do bad again. I agree with my fellow candidates. Feedback may fall on deaf ears, but we should continue to oil the squeaky wheels, make our position heard as a city. We do not have to bend over and take it, give the feedback like we can and demand what we are willing to.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Next question, we’re going to start with Laurie Ann Moore. There is concern about high rates of youth tobacco use. Should Brooklyn Center ban flavored tobacco products to protect our kids?
Laurie Ann Moore: High rates of tobacco use, you said, not flavored, right?
Patty Robles: Well, the question says, should Brooklyn Center ban flavored tobacco products to protect our kids? What’s your position on that?
Laurie Ann Moore: Well, I would agree that high rates of tobacco use among any, both our youth and our adults, are a problem. In terms of getting involved, we have communities around who have made that decision regarding flavored products. I don’t know that I would take a position that we should be banning flavored products within our city. I don’t know that I would take a position that we should be banning flavored products within our city. But I also believe that we should continue, and I know the council has received some information about this, in terms of tobacco rates and their impact on teen. We have certain places that they can’t obviously smoke at, but no, I would not be in favor of banning flavored tobacco products within the city.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Thank you for the question. I’m really excited about this. In 2012, I was a council member that brought to the council issues from non-smokers Minnesota. And after several months of discussion, we passed one of these, at the time it was the strictest tobacco ordinance in the state, meaning tobacco products could only be sold in a tobacco store. And that’s probably one of my proudest moments. Both my parents died of lung and my father, brain cancer. So I’m very passionate about this. Adults can choose to do what they want. I don’t know that we’re already isolating where they can be purchased, but allowing an adult over 21 to purchase flavored tobacco, I don’t have an issue with. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Next, Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: So simply, no, I don’t support a ban. I don’t think tobacco use is healthy. I have also had family members affected by tobacco use. But the fact is tobacco sales to a minor are already illegal. So if youth are getting their hands on these tobacco products, they’re getting it in other ways or products are being sold illegally. So I don’t think a ban would actually affect that issue that much. Although I’m all for health awareness and discouraging the use of tobacco, I don’t support a ban on flavored products. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: I tend to agree that I don’t support a ban. I mean, they’re going to get it somewhere. And honestly, I think the city has more important things to think about than banning flavored tobacco for kids.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Our next question, we’re going to start with Gretchen Enger. Panhandling, litter, and overgrown weeds in residences is abundant. What ideas do you have to, quote unquote, whip Brooklyn Center into shape to be safe and appealing to residents and visitors alike?
Gretchen Enger: Will you repeat it one more time, please?
Patty Robles: Mm-hmm. Panhandling, litter, and overgrown weeds in residences is abundant. What ideas do you have to, quote unquote, whip Brooklyn Center into shape to be safe and appealing to residents and visitors alike?
Gretchen Enger: I chuckle at the whip Brooklyn Center into shape. I think that we’re all responsible. To keep our thing, I think, has gotten a little out of control. I know that the Brooklyn Center Police Department can’t really do anything about panhandlers unless there is a threat to safety. I think that it puts a bad light on our city, but it happens everywhere. What I’d like to see is, you know, if I see litter, and I know, Laurie, there was a social media post where you saw some litter. It’s like, let’s get together and pick it up. If you see it, pick it up. I think we’re all responsible for keeping our own city clean. And I typically don’t support any of the panhandling. I guess it’s one of those things where we have city ordinances that take care of some of this stuff. But I think, like I said, it’s all us as citizens to keep our community clean, too, and we need to do our part where appropriate.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: Yeah, that was a great response that we should take responsibility to do our part on these issues. You know, I actually had some overgrown weeds and got a notice from the city, so I can definitely relate to this on a personal level. I had the ability to take care of that and correct that issue. So I think there’s a code enforcement element. But I realize that some of my neighbors might not have the ability to deal with those issues. So actually, I applaud our mayor who posted in one of the groups looking for help for somebody who had overgrown weeds. I think we should explore more of that and take responsibility for not just our own residences, but our neighbors in a positive way like that versus from the top enforcement.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Well, first off, panhandling. Police Chief Flesland said that that’s a First Amendment right. And again, as Gretchen stated, unless there’s a harm to others, not much we can do about that. Some things that I think our strategies is adopt-a-park. The Brooklyn Sutter Lady Lions has adopted my local park, Bellevue. There are many parks that do not have an organization that’s cleaning at least the parks. I think the city could on their website clarify how residents, we were talking about the 252 66th corner that’s full of garbage, but unsafe to pick up. It’s a city could make some make something on the landing page about cleanup and tools available. But I think most important was Kris talked about being a neighborhood watch captain for 20 years. We need to get these neighborhoods together and not just the park neighborhoods, but maybe it’s the block neighborhood or the four block area and really get to know your neighbors.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Okay, and the question one more time.
Patty Robles: Sure. Panhandling, litter, and overgrown weeds in residences is abundant. What ideas do you have to quote unquote whip Brooklyn Center into shape to be safe and appealing to residents and visitors alike?
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Okay, again, it’s been discussed, we can’t do anything about the panhandling. What we can do as residents is choose other ways to help people that have needs. If they are stepping into the street, then something can be done, but we don’t have enough law enforcement to be worried about someone stepping into the street to get money. So what we can do is educate our residents other ways in which they can help these communities–CEAP–and there are many other nonprofits that can maybe help these people and get to the root of the problem. And as far as weeds and all that, that’s a council decision. We need to put our money where our mouth is, and we need to step up the budget and increase the number of code enforcement people that are out there and bring back pride in our community. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Next, we’re going to start with Andrew Johnson. What do you feel is needed to develop the many empty city owned properties?
Andrew Johnson: I think we already kind of touched on the public safety issue. I think that’s the number one thing right now. I’m sure there are other things that can be done, but I think that is paramount and key to affecting any empty business spaces.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Yes, I think we answered this previously, but I do believe, and I talk with a lot of residents about it, it’s about public safety, our perception and those around us, our neighboring suburbs, our reputation, that it’s crime-laden, that it’s all of that has really bogged down any development, even if it’s a small parcel. And some of the things we talked about, incentivizing and so on, we can try to do, but until the perception of public safety and a crime-laden community changes, it’s going to be very difficult to develop any property, small or 80 acres large.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: And the question was, what can we do to develop the many empty properties?
Patty Robles: Yes, what do you feel is needed to develop the many empty city-owned properties?
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Okay, again, crime reduction, our city’s reputation, and people within our own community that live, work, and play here need to shop here. If we don’t shop here, we can’t attract businesses because the businesses aren’t lucrative. I think we need aggressive development within, our development department needs to be more aggressive in looking at ways to attract. I don’t think TIF is always a solution, but I think it’s very important that to regain the pride, we have to shop in our own city as much as we possibly can. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: Thank you for the question. I think I agree with a lot of what was said here by the other panel candidates. It’s really tough for a city to kind of figure out what’s going to be best for the city. And we really have to take a look at how we want to build the city out. We’ve had a lot of great businesses come in. One of the things that I keep hearing at city council is we don’t want to make carve-outs for special businesses. We want to make sure that everything we bring into the city will truly benefit the city and increase our tax base. But I think first and foremost, public safety is an issue that we struggle with. But again, I’m seeing a lot of businesses that are coming in and are really going to add value to the city. And we need to keep that momentum up. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Next question, we’re going to start with Gretchen Enger. What would you suggest for improving information on the city website?
Gretchen Enger: That is a great question; that’s right up my alley since I work in websites every day. I think that, boy, where do I start? I think the city website is a really good source of information. But I think that information isn’t necessarily organized in a way that’s easy for people to find. And I think there’s a lot of information that’s outdated on it. And so what I would like to see is actually reaching out to city staff, people in community, and finding out really what is the intent of the website and what are people expecting to see. I would gladly take that on if I’m a candidate or not because I have a lot of experience doing that in my career.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: So I also work a lot with websites too, being in IT and software development. I agree that that organization is a huge issue. You need to really connect with end users to see what they expect, maybe even do some A/B testing with different layouts and have community input into that. I think search is also a big functionality that could improve on the website. And then just not relying on just the website to put out information. I think there are other avenues we can explore with social media and other platforms to get information out and give people access to that.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Again, could you repeat the question?
Patty Robles: What would you suggest for improving information on the city website?
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: I’m not in IT. I’m not illiterate, but I am not in IT. The website is definitely in need of an upgrade. It is very outdated. I would like to see maybe suggestions for what people want. Track the traffic. Where are people going? And maybe start there and do it a phased approach. I pay my utility bill that way. And just look at something on the website with a survey, a simple survey, that says what do you come to the website for? What are your needs? And and then go from there. So again, definitely the website is in need of some work. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Yes, and thank you to the kids to my right who have the expertise. But as a user who is signed up for every email you can imagine for the city, it is, I can’t even find my way around the city website. So one, I agree with Kris about do a resident survey. What’s more important? I think we need to rotate content. I think I’ve seen the same stuff on the front of the web page since I ran two years ago for mayor. That needs to change. The police dashboard, we all of us have talked about public safety and crime. You have to dig to find that under police department. Same with, let’s just not about code enforcement and pointing the finger at your neighbor, but just how if there’s something serious going on, where do we go and report that? There’s no way to really do that. And then how about just ask a question? Is there even that on there? And the search bar, please an improved search bar. Thank you, Andrew.
Patty Robles: Thank you. And this is going to be our final question. Again, we’re not able to get to every question. So please reach out to your candidates if you have something that was not answered tonight. But here’s our final question before closing statements. What is your position on diversity, equity, inclusion in our city and working towards addressing systemic racism? We’re going to start with Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: And system. And what was the verb in this? What can I do?
Patty Robles: What is your position on diversity, equity, inclusion in our city? And how would you work towards addressing systemic racism?
Laurie Ann Moore: Um, well, for me, this would be an ongoing journey. And it should continue no matter what the new name is called. Embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, systemic racism, racism should be paramount in the front of all of us, all of us as human beings. I’ve been a licensed social worker that certainly does not make me an expert. So I believe that that should be in the forefront of all decisions. It’s just one of the questions is about disenfranchised individuals. Same thing. How can we lift them up? That is my position. I can’t remember what the second part of the question is now. And I would work for that as a candidate and as your council member to continue to make sure that that’s at the forefront of all discussions that are happening in the city, that we are lifting everyone up, especially those who haven’t been lifted maybe before. Thank you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Well, my position is I completely support. I believe the city has made many strides, especially during my term. I think we are looking at ways in which we can engage some of our community events. We’re looking at those different ways that we can bring everyone together. We’ve made progress, but we have a long way to go. And I think it’s just having dialogues and just doing our best to work together and realize we’re all different. And that’s really a good thing.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: Yeah, so this is just an observation of mine. Most of the popular DEI practices I have observed actually kind of narrow, like especially with hiring, they kind of narrow the initial candidate pool based on those practices to begin with and have kind of a very narrow view of what diversity actually is. I think the fact is we are diverse, and we need to accept that with hiring practices, we need to hire the most qualified people, regardless of what they look like, what their background is, what their protected classes are. That said, I do deplore racism as every decent human being should. I think there are opportunities to build bridges and heal hurts of the past going forward, and that’s what I would do as a candidate.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: Would you repeat the question again, please?
Patty Robles: What is your position on diversity, equity, and inclusion in our city, and how would you plan, how would you work towards addressing systemic racism?
Gretchen Enger: Thank you. You know, Brooklyn Center is one of the most diverse communities in the Twin Cities area. To me, what I’ve seen is it’s become more and more synonymous with division. So we need to embrace our differences and discover how we can learn and grow from one another. I think it’s, if you look up here at this panel, we’re not a very diverse group of people, and I think that says something. But I think one of the things I always tell people is you put 10 people in a room, you give them a problem. They’re all going to come up with different solutions based on their experiences and backgrounds, but you’re going to see some common themes. So I think, you know, one of the things that I keep saying and saying is it’s all about relationships. It’s all about going to those uncomfortable spaces, what we may feel as uncomfortable, what other people may feel as uncomfortable, and have a simple conversation because I have not experienced what other people have experienced, and I want to learn more from that. As far as systemic racism, you know, it’s something that is, sorry, if you want to know my answer, you can contact me later.
Patty Robles: Thank you. We now, let’s see, candidates now will now have one minute for their closing statements, and we are going to start with Andrew Johnson.
Andrew Johnson: Thank you again for the opportunity to do this. I always appreciate the thoughtful questions. I believe in being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. So as your City Council representative, potentially, I intend to listen as much as I can to constituents of different, differing perspectives and synthesize their feedback into solutions that make sense for the whole community. As I said, I believe in hard work and servant leadership, so if elected, I would plan to continue that momentum. If you’re interested in learning more about my positions or plans or anything else, you can visit my website, andrewcurtisjohnson.com, and I’d be happy to connect with you.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Gretchen Enger.
Gretchen Enger: Thank you. You know, our community is at a crossroads facing significant challenges alongside with some incredible opportunities, and I apologize, I’m going to probably sound like a broken record here, but collaboration is key. It’s how we solve problems and create real change. I believe in building relationships where every opinion matters and everyone feels heard. I believe in solutions based on facts and constructive conversations, not blame. We need leadership that speaks up when things aren’t working and fosters and environment where everyone feels safe and seen with their opinions. My focus will be on practical decisions that address immediate needs while building a solid foundation for long-term growth, increasing transparency, and supporting both residents and businesses. Like Andrew said, I invite you to share your thoughts and ideas with me because together, collaboratively, we can build the Brooklyn Center that we envision. I’ve demonstrated my commitment to Brooklyn Center, and I’m ready to serve as your next council member.
Patty Robles: Thank you.
Gretchen Enger: Snuck that almost under the radar, not quite.
Patty Robles: Laurie Ann Moore.
Laurie Ann Moore: Yes, thank you so much for this opportunity to bring all of us Brooklyn Center candidates together. The first thing I want to say is that I really want to continue to engage residents, all residents. Two years ago when I ran not too many people were engaged in this, and I think over the past two years people have really taken it to heart and say, how can I be a part of what’s going on in this great city? I will be pragmatic and thoughtful. I will make policy and fiscal decisions that benefit the most residents. I want to continue to fully fund our first responders and of course look at our expanded response team and supporting that as it rolls out. I want to expand our tax base and get some burden off of residential tax owners, and I want transparency and fiscal accountability when it comes to the annual budget. I would encourage you to vote Moore for Brooklyn Center.
Patty Robles: Thank you. Kris Lawrence-Anderson.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Please repeat.
Patty Robles: It’s time for your closing statement.
Kris Lawrence-Anderson: Okay, thank you. All right. This is kind of like coming from all directions. I have been active in our community since 1999. I have experience in very varied volunteer opportunities. I’m dedicated to our city. I’m calm under pressure. I make common sense decisions. I am measured in my actions and my words. My focus is always on our residents and our business community, and I would vow to continue to demonstrate sound judgment, common sense, and take all opinions into account when making decisions. I certainly would appreciate your vote because this is a lot of fun.
Patty Robles: Thank you. We’d like to thank you for coming tonight and thank our internet audience for viewing. We would especially like to thank the candidates for being part of this process and for being willing to serve our community. We’d like to also thank our friends at CCX Media for continued support of the League of Women Voters Forums and our shared mission to provide nonpartisan information for voters to get to know the people who wish to represent them. It is the league’s policy to record and post the entire candidate forum without editing so that the public will see the event in its entirety and not just selected scenes or sound bites. Excerpts or edited clips of candidate forums may not be used for partisan or political purposes. This forum is being recorded by CCX Media and will be available online. I would like to remind you that the views expressed in this forum are those of the candidates and not those of Brooklyn Park Osseo Maple Grove League of Women Voters. Remember, if we could not get to your question tonight or you have further questions for the candidates, we invite you to contact them directly with your questions or concerns. Information about your candidates can also be found at vote411.org. And just a quick note, on the November ballot, Minnesota voters will be asked to reauthorize or end a constitutional amendment allocating 40% of state lottery proceeds to the Environment and Natural Resource Trust Fund. Over 50% of voters must vote yes to approve constitutional protection of the system. Leaving the question blank counts as a no vote. Leaving the question blank counts as a no vote. So please be sure to look for the amendment and vote. Early in-person voting has begun. Please remember to vote on or before Tuesday, November 5th as your vote truly counts. Thank you and have a good evening and be safe.