VOTER'S GUIDE: Kragness, Koenig on the ballot for Brooklyn Center mayor
Teneshia Kragness
Current occupation
Accountant, Councilmember (Mayor Pro Tem)
Education and prior experience
B.B.A. in accounting, magna cum laude; graduate studies in Christian Leadership and Business; 25 years in accounting; Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem.
What is one short-term goal you would fight for if elected to serve as Brooklyn Center mayor for the next four years, and what is a long-term goal you would hope to achieve by the time that term expires?
My short-term goal is to strengthen public safety by creating partnerships with residents, law enforcement, businesses and community organizations. Every family should feel safe at home and in their neighborhood. Over the next four years, my long-term goal is to strengthen Brooklyn Center’s economic base by actively supporting local businesses and promoting strategic development in our neighborhoods. I envision a safer, stronger, and more connected city where businesses want to invest, neighborhoods are cared for, residents know their voices matter and homeowners are not expected to carry so much of the tax burden.
What type of development would prioritize when considering the future of city-owned parcels in Brooklyn Center, and how would you advocate for those projects as mayor?
I would prioritize developments that strengthen our tax base and meet the needs of our residents. City-owned land belongs to the community, so every proposal must be evaluated based on its financial impact and its value to the surrounding neighborhood. As mayor, I would ensure residents are heard, work with the Council and city staff and actively seek developers who share our vision. I would advocate for projects that are financially responsible and benefit our residents. I want to help build a city where businesses want to invest.
Brooklyn Center maintained a relatively low property tax levy increase last year, achieved in part through a reduction in city staff. How might the city improve its financial viability, and how might you encourage that as mayor?
I have been vocal that I do not support reducing staff as a way to balance the budget. Our employees provide essential services, and financial stability should not come at the expense of our ability to serve residents. We must be good stewards of taxpayers’ money by identifying efficiencies, prioritizing spending, pursuing grants and partnerships and strengthening our tax base through responsible development. As mayor, I will work with the Council and city staff to advance transparent budgeting and long-term financial planning that protects essential services.
What is the best way for voters to contact you?
My campaign website: teneshiakragnessforbrooklyncentermayor.com
Campaign Email: TKforMayor26@gmail.com
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