Two candidates are running for the Hastings City Council Ward 2 seat in November’s election.

General information about the Nov. 5, 2024, election is online at twincities.com/news/politics/elections including information on candidates for races in Ramsey, Dakota and Washington counties.

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.

Mya Beck

Answers not provided.

Wendi Shilts-Johnson

Age: 47

Wendi Shilts-Johnson (Courtesy of the candidate)

What would your top priorities be if elected? If elected, my top priorities would be: Water Quality: Ensuring the continued improvement of Hastings’ water quality, working closely with the Public Works and Engineering Department to implement effective solutions. Community Engagement: Strengthening communication between the city government and residents, promoting transparency, and ensuring that all voices are heard in decision-making processes. Support for Local Businesses: Fostering economic growth by supporting local businesses, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, and developing policies that encourage sustainable development. Infrastructure Improvements: Maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure, including roads, parks, and public spaces, to enhance the quality of life for all residents. These priorities reflect my commitment to addressing the needs of our community while ensuring Hastings continues to thrive.

What qualifies you to hold this position? I am qualified to hold this position due to my strong background in business finance, with a Bachelor’s Degree and over 25 years of experience in the workforce. My extensive accounting and managerial experience equips me with the skills to analyze budgets, make informed decisions, and navigate complex challenges. As a small business owner, I understand the local economy and the importance of supporting our community’s growth. Additionally, my deep connection to Hastings and commitment to public service give me the insight and passion needed to effectively represent our residents and address their needs.

What do you think is the primary role of government? The primary role of government is to serve and protect its citizens while promoting the common good. This includes ensuring public safety, providing essential services, maintaining infrastructure, and creating an environment where individuals and businesses can thrive. Government should also foster community engagement, promote transparency, and uphold justice and equity. Ultimately, it’s about working collaboratively with residents to address their needs, support their rights, and create a vibrant, healthy community for everyone.

How do you work to understand, and then learn from, opinions that differ from your own and people who disagree with you? I believe that understanding differing opinions is essential for effective leadership. To achieve this, I actively listen to others, engage in open dialogue, and seek to understand the underlying reasons behind their perspectives. I value respectful discussions, where everyone feels heard and can express their views without judgment. I also make it a point to seek feedback from a diverse range of community members, including those who may disagree with me. This helps me gain new insights and adapt my approach based on the needs and concerns of the community. By fostering an inclusive environment for discussion, I can better learn from diverse viewpoints and make more informed decisions that reflect the interests of all residents.

Website or contact information: wendishiltsjohnson@gmail.com

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