Three candidates are running for two seats on the North Oaks City Council in November’s election.

General information about the Nov. 5 election is online at twincities.com/news/politics/elections including information on candidates for Ramsey, Dakota and Washington county races.

To find out what’s on your ballot, where to vote and other election information, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s elections page at sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting.

Bryan Clapper

(Candidate information was not provided)

Grover Sayre (incumbent)

Grover Sayre (Courtesy of the candidate)

Age: 68

What would your top priorities be if elected? My first priority will be public safety. I’m currently the City Council liaison with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s department and, if re-elected, hope to continue in that role. Number two priority will be to ensure easy access to county government. All North Oaks residents should experience that their elected representatives and City employees and staff are on their side when they bring their projects and concerns to the City for resolution and action. Number three will be to protect and preserve the unique nature and characteristics of our City…the trees, wildlife and natural beauty of our City. That’s one of the big reasons why people choose to live in North Oaks.

What qualifies you to hold this position? I’ve lived in North Oaks for 20 years. My wife Lynn grew up in North Oaks. North Oaks Involvement includes: NSSA Youth Soccer coach for North Oak’s youth; Boy Scout leader in North Oaks Troop 63; 25-year member of the North Oaks Golf Club; served on the Planning Commission, and am currently a member of the North Oaks City Council. I’m running because I believe government at all levels should be of the people, by the people and for the people. In other words, government should partner with its citizens to help them resolve their concerns and help to provide solutions to whatever project, concern or problem that they are working on. Government should help figure out the “how to,” and not the “can’t do.” This is the attitude that I brought to the Planning Commission and currently bring to the City Council. One of my big concerns is for our natural environment and am running to make sure that the unique character of our City’s natural beauty, its lakes, wetlands and wildlife is preserved. After living here for 20+ years, I have a great appreciation for North Oaks and want it to continue as a welcoming place for future generations. I look forward to continuing to serve the City of North Oaks and am committed to finding ways to collaborate with the residents of North Oaks and government when it comes to getting projects done. My strength is in bringing all parties together and seeing if there is a way to say “Yes.”

What do you think is the primary role of government? I’m running because I believe government at all levels should be of the people, by the people and for the people. In other words, government should partner with its citizens to help them resolve their concerns and help to provide solutions to whatever project, concern or problem that they are working on. Government should help figure out the “how to,” and not the “can’t do.” This is the attitude that I brought to the Planning Commission and currently bring to the City Council.

How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you? Number one will be to listen. This is what I did as a member of the Planning Commission and am currently doing as a member of the City Council. When residents approach the Planning Commission and Council in person or in writing, I’ve worked hard to be sure to listen carefully to what they have to say before reacting, passing judgment or recommending action.

Website or contact information: groversayre.com

Sara Shah (incumbent)

Sara Shah. (Courtesy of the candidate)

Age: 48

What would your top priorities be if elected? Public safety: Continue to work with RCSO to improve speeding enforcement and reduce nonviolent crime. Continue to ensure that Lake Johanna Fire Dept is able to deliver timely, comprehensive fire and EMS services to all residents of North Oaks. Land use: Using experience gained working on the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and Planning Commission, I will tirelessly fight to keep North Oaks land use decisions within our community environmentally conscious and sustainable. Environmental stewardship: Build upon the Wilkinson Deep Water Wetland Project to improve the health of Pleasant Lake and other watersheds. Communication: I strive to see that our new communication systems are implemented and meet the goal of keeping residents informed in times of City emergencies.

What qualifies you to hold this position? It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as both a Planning Commissioner and City Council member over the past 6 years. In these positions I have developed a proven track record of being a collaborative voice of reason, putting the interests of North Oaks residents first. During this time our city has improved resident outreach and communication, worked with NOHOA to maximize the value of our tax dollars and dues, improved safety and security with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office and Lake Johanna Fire Department, and improved the beauty of our natural environment through collaboration with VLAWMO. The experience I gained working on the 2040 Comprehensive Plan will help ensure that North Oaks land use decisions remain in our City. I remain committed to focus on the unique vision for our community as we together define the next chapter for North Oaks.

What do you think is the primary role of government? The primary role of government is to protect the inherent rights of its citizens. As a City Council member, I am sworn to protect the safety, security and overall welfare of the citizens of North Oaks. Government should fulfill these charges as efficiently and responsively as possible.

How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you? Throughout my time in public office I have worked tirelessly to understand the diversity of opinions within our community. I view my role as understanding and representing our entire community, not simply a specific constituency. I continue to seek ways to reach as many residents as possible to understand how we can better serve their needs and concerns as a Council. During my time in office I have always welcomed residents to speak during the public comment period of public hearings – this is your time to be heard! You will typically find me at community events reaching out one-on-one to residents. Finally, in addition to monitoring my City email and responding to residents in real time, I have provided my cell phone number to encourage residents to reach out at any time by email or phone.

Website or contact information: Electsara.com

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