A primary election will help decide who will next represent the Central District on the Brooklyn Park City Council. On Aug. 13, a six-person candidate pool will be reduced to two candidates.
The candidates are Steve Antolak, Martino Nguyen, Wole Osibodu, Shelle Page, Ugo Ugonwayi and Teshite Wako.
The two top vote-getters will advance to the Nov. 5 General Election. Council members will serve a four-year term beginning next year.
Incumbent Boyd Morson is not eligible to run for the Central District this election cycle due to redistricting. He has instead announced his intention to run for his new district, the East District.
For more information on voting, visit brooklynpark.org/elections .
Sun Newspapers reached out to candidates to compile this voter’s guide in advance of the primary election.
Ugo Ugonwayi did not submit responses in time for the deadline, but confirmed that he is actively campaigning for the Central District seat.
Steve Antolak
I am running for a seat on the Brooklyn Park City Council because...
We deserve leaders who treat each other with respect, listen to concerns, and work together to find solutions. We need someone who will restore civility and decorum to our government. I will move beyond the unproductive arguments that hold us back and focus on building a brighter future for all.
If a voter wants to contact me, the best way to reach me is...
voteantolak@gmail.com
What priorities, skills or experiences would you bring to this seat that you feel is uniquely needed by your constituents?
Proven Leadership and Conflict Resolution: My dedication to public service spans over two decades. I’ve held elected positions on the Osseo District School board and ISD 287 school board, navigating challenging times of budget constraints and social unrest. My leadership extends beyond the ballot box. I served on the Three Rivers Park District Board for eight years, chaired the Hennepin County Solid Waste Citizens Advisory Board, and currently act as a referee for Hennepin County Conciliation Court. These roles, particularly during times of deep division, honed my ability to bridge divides and find common ground. I possess the skills and experience to facilitate productive dialogue, even in heated situations, and build consensus to achieve solutions that benefit everyone.
What is an ongoing, citywide issue that you feel passionate about? How do you feel it should be prioritized or addressed?
Brooklyn Park can be a place where everyone feels safe – where children play freely, families enjoy worry-free evenings, and businesses thrive. To achieve this, we must address the causes of crime and foster a more integrated, equitable community.
Violence erodes our sense of security and holds our community back. We must create a safe and welcoming environment for all by investing in programs that steer young people away from violence. We need to understand the reasons behind their choices and offer opportunities for success.
Communities with greater racial and economic equality experience lower crime rates. We must bridge disparities in education and economic opportunities, ensuring everyone has a chance to reach their full potential.
This isn’t just about safety – it’s about building a stronger Brooklyn Park. By creating a community where everyone feels valued and has a stake in its success, we can create a vibrant, thriving place for all.
Martino Nguyen
I am running for a seat on the Brooklyn Park City Council because...
After discussing the increase in crime, safety concerns, educational challenges, community fragmentation, high property tax and excessive spending in Brooklyn Park with my neighbors and family, many of them have encouraged me to consider representing them on the city council.
If a voter wants to contact me, the best way to reach me is...
952-300-9288
What priorities, skills or experiences would you bring to this seat that you feel is uniquely needed by your constituents?
Having dedicated over 20 years to serving the 35,000 Vietnamese residents in Minnesota, I’ve gained their trust. Recently, I was appointed as the director of external liaison for the Vietnamese Community of Minnesota. Additionally, I have a successful track record as a business coach, assisting in the establishment of numerous small businesses.
What is an ongoing, citywide issue that you feel passionate about? How do you feel it should be prioritized or addressed?
There are four main primary goals. My primary goals include implementing stronger laws and enforcement measures to reduce crime, enhancing education with a focus on schools and families, promoting community engagement for all, and implementing common-sense budgeting to alleviate the tax burden on families.
Wole Osibodu
I am running for a seat on the Brooklyn Park City Council because...
I am answering the call to serve my various communities by being a voice for them. Having lived in Brooklyn Park for over 20 years, I have the desire to be part of the solution in ensuring the city remains a great place for families and businesses.
If a voter wants to contact me, the best way to reach me is...
wole4bpcc@gmail.com
What priorities, skills or experiences would you bring to this seat that you feel is uniquely needed by your constituents?
Throughout my adult life, I have embraced servant leadership roles. As a student senator at Southwest Minnesota State University, I engaged in many volunteer activities. Before that, I enlisted in the United States Army, serving 27 years, holding positions including company commander and battalion executive officer. I have also led in church ministries and other organizations. Being a dedicated parent and raising three children with my wife has profoundly shaped my perspective and experiences.
What is an ongoing, citywide issue that you feel passionate about? How do you feel it should be prioritized or addressed?
There’s nothing more basic than the safety of our neighborhoods and communities. People should always be confident in their safety and security in our city. I would bring together leaders of our police department and neighborhoods to ensure that our resources are being distributed fairly and effectively all around our city.
Shelle Page
I am running for a seat on the Brooklyn Park City Council because...
Page’s goals as a council member include listening to concerns; ensuring safety; attracting and retaining community, businesses and organizations; and to represent the city’s “diverse and vibrant population.”
If a voter wants to contact me, the best way to reach me is...
spforbrooklynpark@gmail.com
What priorities, skills or experiences would you bring to this seat that you feel is uniquely needed by your constituents?
With over 30 years as a mortgage lender and community active volunteer with family and women based nonprofits – I bring the art of giving with no expectations. There is no hidden agenda for me. I strive for our community to be a place that people for generations will raise their families and enjoy the beauty in our city. I am proud to represent by listening and have an ability to see all sides and work towards solutions versus creating chaos and problems. Having a personality that is not only strong and confident but empathetic and understanding is key.
What is an ongoing, citywide issue that you feel passionate about? How do you feel it should be prioritized or addressed?
The Blue Line Extension is a significant concern for many of our residents. We must hold the agencies responsible for their actions impacting our city. Our voices seem unheard, which is troubling for many in our community. Let’s address this issue head-on and ensure accountability.
As city council members in Brooklyn Park, it’s vital to support our local law enforcement and first responders. These dedicated individuals are the backbone of our community, ensuring safety and rapid response in emergencies. By providing them with the resources they request, we enhance public safety and foster a stronger, more resilient community. Let’s show our appreciation and commitment to those who protect and serve us daily.
Teshite Wako
I am running for a seat on the Brooklyn Park City Council because...
I have lived in Brooklyn Park for twenty-two years. My five children were born and raised in Brooklyn Park. Brooklyn Park is a vibrant community that is a good place to raise a family. I want to do my part representing the values we share on the city council.
If a voter wants to contact me, the best way to reach me is...
teshiteforbp@gmail.com
What priorities, skills or experiences would you bring to this seat that you feel is uniquely needed by your constituents?
I am a small business owner. I have decades of experience as a chief financial officer. My volunteer work has included starting and coaching a community soccer team, serving in nonprofit organization leadership. I served for six years on the Brooklyn Park Budget Advisory Commission. I currently serve on the city planning commission. I have developed relationships of trust and respect with Brooklyn Park city staff and city leaders. My priorities when I am elected to city council will be: Civility in City Government – public policy and decision making can be contentious, we can reach consensus thorough working with mutual respect and integrity; Public Safety – supporting ongoing building of relationships between our police and community grounded in mutual respect and trust; Balanced Economic Development – bring new businesses to Brooklyn Park and supporting small business; Financial Transparency – citizens deserve to know that the city is spending tax dollars wisely.
What is an ongoing, citywide issue that you feel passionate about? How do you feel it should be prioritized or addressed?
The city council represents the city of Brooklyn Park to the residents and the wider community. Some unacceptable behavior has been exhibited by members at the city council meetings and in the treatment of city staff. I recognize that differences of opinion about how to solve issues facing our community exist. Those differences of opinion should be respected. Without civility and mutual respect, trust in our institutions is damaged. At the root, civility and mutual respect must be the basis for reaching a consensus solution. I will be a voice for civility and respect of differences of opinion.
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