‘Everything Is Linked’
ENVISIONING FOR US
Looking forward to a North Mankato we could all be proud of, here are a few key issues and areas that interest me as a North Mankato resident and as your candidate for mayor.
By Joe Tougas
North Mankato is set to grow, and it will need more housing for new homeowners, renters and older residents who want to stay in their homes. That means planned, responsible growth that puts the character of our town as a priority in development and design.
A new housing survey notes already strong demand for both general occupancy ownership and rental housing as well as active adult senior housing.
I want life to be comfortable and affordable for the new homeowner, the renter and the retiree. If we can expand housing opportunities responsibly and wisely, that will go a long way toward reasonable costs.
Everything is linked. Other actions at the local level will affect affordability, even in non-housing areas. That means a sharp eye on taxpayer-funded projects and making sure everybody’s on the same page when it’s time to make decisions. I’m eager to work with a council intent on doing work and exploring options for the city that make people want to live and thrive here.
Affordability
I am eager to see North Mankato support small business and niche operations alike that blend in with residential areas, and I’m old enough to remember Jack & Jill grocery store on Belgrade Avenue. The population is projected to increase, and I’m eager to see how the city can support a local grocery and other shops. I agree with many who say: it’s time. .
Shopping lists
Data Centers
I’m for a moratorium on hyper-scale data centers as we search together for clarity and a clear understanding of what’s at stake in a world going to HAL. A year or two seeking information and ensuring our sources are trustworthy is a worthwhile wait.
The cool thing about North Mankato is we’re small enough to know and talk to each other. Yes, we’re of different opinion on a lot of things, but this is our town and we’re for each other regardless.
For the most part, the city does a good job at using social media to post legal news and the many attractions and events. But residents have to make sure they’re subscribing, tracking, watching … and keeping officials in check. I’ll support any effort or informal campaign that fosters stronger transparency between the city and its residents so both sides understand each other and work in tandem toward the common good.
Communication
Our city has several structures that deserve not only recognition, but preservation. I want to enhance the city’s Historic Recognition Program into a one that also focuses on protecting the history and character of North Mankato.
At the same time, we have a number of commercial buildings that could use some spiffing up. I’d like to implement a commercial rehabilitation loan program through local or federal means. We could make a more welcoming first impression at one or two entry points to town.
Historic Preservation
From Bells on Belgrade to Music in the Park, our festivals bring us together and rock us into a big-neighborhood unity. And I can see this town growing further as a destination for specialized arts, cultural events and nightlife. A strong business community keeps our town rooted, but culture is what makes it bloom. I’d like to keep alive and kicking outdoor events such as Art Splash, Blues on Belgrade and, of course, Fun Days while exploring more arts and entertainment entities.
Area artists, musicians in particular, continue to seek venues that serve as listening rooms and I’m eager to knock on some doors to see what could happen along those lines. With public-private investment in such an effort, North Mankato can becoming a reliable spot for intimate concerts, theater, comedy and other local showcases.
Let’s Put on a Show
Until some magical time when elected leaders somehow know more about North Mankato’s history, business climate, affordability and general needs than all of its residents, it’s a good idea to be open to their input.
Committees are one of the best ways to get our neighbors involved in areas in which they have high talent, passion and expertise. I want to reinvigorate creation and participation in the Climate Action Plan, Parks Advisory Board, Historic Preservation and other vehicles to ensure we’re tapping into the talent and ideas of our neighbors toward a common goal.
Public Committees
Anybody in city leadership should not fear asking big, dumb questions. Like: “How can we make this happen?”
I’ve made a career of that, and in this area I’d take pride in being questioner-in-chief. l’ll seek answers, perspectives and possibilities from the experienced and smartest among us toward making the best decisions possible for North Mankato.
Joey and Grandpa Joe contemplating the next move.