MEET THE CANDIDATES
Feature
Olmsted County Commissioner (CONT.)
Tawonda Burks
Bob Hopkins
DISTRICT 6
DISTRICT 6
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? I am running for County Commissioner because our
Why are you running for County Commissioner and how does your experience qualify you for the position? As a Navy veteran and former public servant, I believe the
community needs leadership that is both passionate and effective in addressing the critical challenges we face. From housing affordability and criminal justice reform to healthcare access, economic development, and human services, I am committed to bringing innovative solutions that create real change. Now is the time for collaborative efforts that benefit every resident in our county. I am ready to lead with purpose and deliver lasting, impactful results. My extensive board experience serving organizations in STEM, women, youth, business, and healthcare has deepened my understanding of our community's needs. Alongside my role at Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc. (RAEDI), my doctoral education and research, business education, and leadership as the owner of multiple businesses, equips me to tackle our county’s most pressing issues with determination. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? As a candidate for County Commissioner, my top two priorities are enhancing human services and driving economic development. Our community is strong, but there’s always room to improve access to essential services like healthcare, mental health support, and social services. I am committed to making these services even more accessible and effective, ensuring they reach those who need them most. Economic development is also crucial for our county's continued growth. I am dedicated to supporting local businesses, driving entrepreneurship, and creating jobs that contribute to the county’s ongoing success and provide stability for our residents. By building on the progress we’ve made, I believe we can create even more opportunities for everyone in our community. These priorities reflect my commitment to contributing to a county that is both compassionate and thriving. I am ready to work harder to ensure our community continues to grow and that everyone has the support and opportunities they need to succeed.
best way to give back to the community is by applying my experience and dedication to help keep Olmsted County be the welcoming and prosperous community that we all expect and deserve. As a small business owner, I experience every day the joys and challenges of managing a business, making payroll, hiring and retaining employees, and achieving success in our community. I believe these skills will be critical in helping Olmsted County tackle the challenges of growth and change that our community is experiencing. I look forward to putting these skills to work from Day One as an Olmsted County Commissioner. What are your top two priorities/issues as a candidate for County Commissioner? My top three priorities are Responsible Growth, Affordable Housing, and Public Safety. Responsible Growth – I will work to ensure that investments are made responsibly and in ways that enhance public trust and financial accountability. Affordable Housing – My goal is to address the housing shortage in the greater Rochester area so that people can afford to live and work in Olmsted County. Public Safety – I plan to build on the considerable efforts of the Olmsted County Sheriff’s office to enable a responsive and effective law enforcement presence in our community.
12 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — OCTOBER 2024
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