I currently serve as one of 15 members of the Minneapolis Charter Commission, appointed by the chief judge of the Fourth Judicial District for a four-year term beginning January 1, 2026. The Charter Commission is responsible for maintaining the home rule charter, which is similar to a constitution for the City of Minneapolis. The commission is empowered to propose amendments to the charter and also has a role to play in considering amendments proposed by the City Council or citizen petition. (Ultimately, all charter amendments must be approved by the voters of the city, unless the entire City Council and the Mayor unanimously agree on a change.) In addition, the Charter Commission oversees the redistricting process that takes place after each census.
As a charter commissioner, my interests include keeping the charter aligned with principles of good governance and meaningful democratic control over city institutions, ensuring that the voices of diverse constituencies throughout the city are heard in the charter amendment process, and helping voters clearly understand any decisions they may be asked to make about amendments.
Minneapolis residents who have any input or feedback regarding my service on the Charter Commission are welcome to contact me.