Emily Rousseau
for Mayor
Arden Hills
Thoughtful growth, local values.
ABOUT EMILY
​​​​I grew up in Minnesota and although I've experienced other parts of the country, I’ve found that few places in the country compare to the quality of life and sense of community we have right here at home.
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My family and I were drawn to Arden Hills 12 years ago because we value the educational opportunities in our city.
II hold an MBA from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. My husband, Matt, has been at Boston Scientific for 15+ years. We have two children. Our oldest a MVHS alumni, is finishing a teaching degree at the University of Minnesota’s. Our youngest is in elementary school, she loves playgrounds and is a devoted soccer player.
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I am a business leader with experience ranging from local infrastructure consulting to global enterprise strategy. I’ve successfully navigated everything from local community outreach to leading multi-continent compliance programs in a $4 billion market.
Looking ahead, Arden Hills needs a mayor ready to address the current challenges. I understand the human side of leadership and have built my career on turning obstacles into opportunities. I am running for Mayor because I know that with the right vision, our city can do amazing things. I am asking for your support to advance our local priorities, and deliver a bright, sustainable future for every generation in our community.
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Through my professional work, I've consulted on community outreach for large infrastructure projects, including for MNDOT. I also have extensive experience managing global legal compliance for complex data privacy laws. As a compliance professional, I analyzed laws; developed enterprise strategies and policies; and lead teams to implement those requirements at a midcap market company.
Values and Vision
Over the last 4 years, the Council added new leadership, and gained traction with planning City initiatives, prioritizing our resources, and modernize our leadership approach. I'm asking for four more years to represent you and continue our good progress. Next year we'll begin setting our vision for decades to come with our 2050 Comprehensive Plan. Arden Hills needs a Mayor that can lead us into the future. As your Mayor, I will bridge differing viewpoints, ensure we grow intelligently, and, of course, stay true to the values that make Arden Hills home.
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I have successfully cultivated a culture within our committees and commissions where members feel empowered to tackle difficult topics and express differing viewpoints. I ensure that every voice is not only heard but respected. As Mayor, I look forward to bringing this same collaborative leadership to the City Council.
Additionally, I am committed to continuing work from my first term, including:
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Elevating Our Quality of Life:
​Investing in parks and trails both for the future and more enjoyment and use now
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Responsible Economic Stewardship:
Prioritizing thoughtful and strategic decisions for our resources
Seeking return on our economic investments
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Advancing Rice Creek Commons (former TCAAP site):
The 427-acre Rice Creek Commons project has unmatched potential in the Twin Cities to provide more homes and amenities.
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Working for you:
​Strengthening our partnerships
Supporting our dedicated residents who serve on committees and commissions
Sponsoring projects that benefit our city​
Elevating our Quality of Life
During my term, I worked toward responsibly financing key sections of the city's trail systems, including testifying at the Minnesota house for trail segment funding for Old HWY 10.
I will prioritize completion of trails on Old Hwy 10 and around Lake Johanna with thoughtful and affordable processes and policy. Construction on the trail segment along Old HWY 10 is anticipated to begin in 2027 and along Lake Johanna in 2029.​​
​​I supported development of a 10-year Park System Master Plan. The last plan was finalize almost a quarter of a century ago. After approval of the Master Plan, the next steps include creating individual park plans and planning for resources to implement the plans.
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I've made changes to improve the quality of our playground structures that citizens support. The difference is visible between the playgrounds at Cummins Park and Freeway Park and Arden Oaks Park. Based on positive neighborhood feedback at Freeway and Arden Oaks, I will to keep this community investment going.​
Economic Development & City Planning
​I believe the city should work for you! I've championed modernizing local zoning laws to make it easier for homeowners to update properties without excessive red tape. A comprehensive review of the City's zoning code is anticipated to be completed before summer of 2026.
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I've worked to reestablish the Economic Development Committee (EDC) which is now building connections with our businesses. The EDC helps companies navigate doing business in Arden Hills and connects them with resources and opportunities for growth. I directly support this committee by serving as its council liaison. ​​
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An Economic Development Authority (EDA) is used to drive business growth, redevelopment, and job creation. Arden Hills' EDA has been underutilized for many years. ​I've advocated for enhancing the Economic Development Authority (EDA) by the adding new business community members, Two new members added are an opportunity to add new energy to the commission. Historically, the EDA has been composed of the Mayor and four council members. ​
Groundbreaking at Micro Control in the Rice Creek Commons.
Advancing Development of Rice Creek Commons
My goal is to transform the Rice Creek Commons into a prosperous place to live and attract businesses that provide a strong tax base. I support a development that is energy-forward and the addition of amenities, more tax revenue, and future homes our children, seniors and essential workers.