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Josh Bassais
MINNEAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL
MEET JOSH
As a lifelong resident, Josh considers Minneapolis his home and the city he truly cherishes. He consistently feels a deep desire to give back to the community that has given him so much. His connections to Minneapolis are extensive and meaningful, having been born in the Harrison Neighborhood on the Northside, then moving to The West Bank, and finally settling in the Lyndale Neighborhood of South Minneapolis. He currently lives there with his wife, Molly, and their two children, Mason (14) and Audri (12). Josh is a proud product of the city's public school system and greatly benefited from its parks and after-school programs. Raised by a single working mother in a strong union household, he learned the values of solidarity, justice, and conviction early on.
Josh is an active community member, coaching youth sports, serving on local boards, and volunteering for various organizations. His professional background includes over a decade of work with labor unions, negotiating collective bargaining agreements, and organizing unrepresented workers. Additionally, he has held significant roles in the corporate world amassing a blend of grassroots activism and professional ingenuity. Due to his lived experience, Josh has developed a strong sense of empathy and is a dedicated advocate for equity among all residents. He consistently stands firm in defending what is just, regardless of the challenges he faces, and is committed to supporting the issues affecting the people of Minneapolis.
PRIORITIES
Public Safety
Public safety is essential for thriving communities and requires a multifaceted approach. By enhancing community engagement and collaborating with local precinct leaders, effective strategies can be developed. Reforming law enforcement is crucial for restoring trust, alongside supporting alternative safety measures. Josh will also be a staunch advocate for rehabilitation, mental health support, and career development fostering a secure environment where all community members can contribute positively.
Equitable Housing
Addressing the critical issue of equitable housing requires a forward thinking approach. By increasing affordable housing opportunities and exploring pathways to home ownership, we can make strides towards stability for all residents. Josh will work to bolster collaborative efforts with county and state entities which are essential in tackling homelessness with compassion and effectiveness. The ultimate goal is to ensure safe, stable housing, while also addressing the broader social determinants affecting public health, including drug addiction and mental health issues in the city.
Economic Opportunity
Josh, as council member, would focus on economic opportunity by enhancing job development through a combination of public infrastructure, skilled labor, and educational opportunities. He plans to prioritize partnerships between businesses and labor organizations to drive economic growth. His strategy includes securing grants and investing in worker training to prepare the workforce for the jobs of the future. Additionally, Josh would emphasize supporting the small business ecosystem, recognizing its critical role in sustaining a thriving community.
Our affection for the city we call home inspires our optimism. Nevertheless, optimism and strong values need to be paired with action to achieve meaningful outcomes.
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It's time for city government to demonstrate its capability to:
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Provide clean and safe streets for everyone
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Address our drug and behavioral health crises
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Build enough housing to alleviate our affordability issues
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Revitalize the Uptown and Downtown districts to ensure our small businesses thrive​
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Develop a bright economic future and an improved quality of life for all
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​A city that works together to tackle common challenges through collaborative planning, decision-making, and actions.
Josh is dedicated to demonstrating leadership grounded in genuine public service, prioritizing the needs of the people of Minneapolis. He believes that addressing these challenges requires clear communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to reach common ground.