Emily for Arden Hills
Provide Open Responsive & Responsible Governance
If we look at neighboring cities we can see what happens when a city plans ahead. The Shoreview park system is an example. Their parks didn't just appear overnight. It required decades of work and thoughtful planning, and now they have parks that are a special gift to the community. Neighboring cities have also accomplished remarkable things. Now, it is Arden Hills's Turn!
I drove the development of a comprehensive strategic plan which outlines core values of Community Vitality, Responsible Stewardship and Integrity in Service. It is a two-year plan providing strategic directions and priorities for the future.
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 central focus of my term on the city council has been my efforts to increase opportunities for Arden Hills residents to participate in city governance.
Keep Arden Hills safe by maintaining excellent public safety and low crime rates.
I have successfully cultivated a culture within our committees and commissions where Arden Hills residents 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.
The Economic Development Commission (EDC) was neglected and inactive in 2023 when I began my term on the City Council. The EDC helps companies navigate doing business in Arden Hills and connects them with resources and opportunities for growth. I revitalized the EDC by recruiting and appointing new members and I directly support this committee by serving as its council liaison.
An Economic Development Authority (EDA) is used to drive business growth, redevelopment, and job creation. Arden Hills' EDA has been underutilized for many years. Historically, the EDA has been composed of just the Mayor and four council members. I've advocated for enhancing the Economic Development Authority (EDA) by adding new business community members. The two new members add new energy to the commission and a layer of accountability.
Listening to the community matters. Both playgrounds are for children ages 5-12.
The playground in the top picture, was installed by the previous council, to the disappoint of neighbors, the footprint of the playground shrunk and the height significantly reduced.
The playground in the bottom picture was installed in 2025 by a council that listens to the community. The footprint and quality was similar to the playground that was replaced.
Enhance Our Quality of Life
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 and served on its work group. The last plan was finalized 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.
I've made changes to improve the quality of our playground structures that citizens (including children) support. The difference is visible between the playgrounds at Cummins Park versus Freeway Park and Arden Oaks Park. Based on positive neighborhood feedback at Freeway and Arden Oaks, I will to keep this community investment going.
Advance Rice Creek Commons
Arden Hills needs Rice Creek Commons
To increase the tax base
To add new starter homes, Missing Middle homes, luxury housing, & lifecycle housing
School financing is closely tied to student population. Mounds View Schools need young families to remain financially healthy. Young families need housing they can afford. Rice Creek Commons provides our best opportunity to provide some moderately priced housing for families.
I supported restarting negotiations with Ramsey County to develop Rice Creek Commons. We lost three years to the previous councils' unproductive standoff and gained a costly lawsuit with that strategy.