MEET JOSH
My name is Josh Bassais (pronounced Bah-say), a lifelong Minneapolis resident with deep ties to Ward 8. Having grown up in this vibrant city, I'm proud to be a product of Minneapolis Public Schools, attending Lyndale Elementary, Anwatin Middle, and Southwest High School. My journey was greatly influenced by my hardworking single mother, who, with her income as a restaurant server, managed to buy a home here—a home where I now live with my wife and two children, who also attend Minneapolis public schools.
​
Minneapolis is where my activism took root. Inspired by my mother's dedication as a member of Unite Here Local #17, I joined my first union picket line in middle school. As an Uptown skate kid, I was mentored by friends in the anti-racist punk rock movement. This ignited my passion for progressive change and led me to St. Cloud State University, where I was one of the founding members of the Students Coalition Against Racism (S.C.A.R.), working to combat racism on campus and beyond.
​
After college, my commitment to community and labor rights deepened. I became involved with the local DFL party as a Precinct Chair in Minneapolis. Following in my mother's footsteps, I joined Local #17, eventually serving as a business agent where I facilitated collective bargaining and advocated for workers' rights. My role as a Union Organizer with LIUNA, further allowed me to empower workers and enhance union strength through strategic organizing and leadership development. With over a decade of experience in labor unions and substantial time spent in the corporate world, I have developed a unique combination of grassroots activism and professional effectiveness.
​
Beyond my professional life, I am actively engaged in our community. I've had the privilege of serving as Board President for the Lyndale Neighborhood Association and coaching youth sports, instilling teamwork and self-determination in our city's kids.
​
I am dedicated to fostering a future for Minneapolis that celebrates our community's diversity, strength, and resilience. I invite you to join me in this journey to bring about meaningful change in our cherished city.
Why am I Running
I'm running for City Council in Minneapolis because I believe our city is at a crucial inflection point, and we have the opportunity to create a community where everyone can thrive. With my experience in collective action and community activism, I am equipped to bring about meaningful change through collaboration and genuine public service. My deep ties to the city fuel my commitment to community engagement and fostering a safer, more equitable Minneapolis.
My vision includes a comprehensive approach to public safety, involving community input, reforming law enforcement, enhancing mental health support, and focusing on youth development to build trust and security. In housing, I aim to increase affordable options and address homelessness through collaboration with county and state partners, ensuring stable housing and addressing social health determinants. For economic opportunity, I plan to boost job development by partnering with businesses and labor organizations, securing grants, and supporting small businesses to prepare for future job markets.
Additionally, I propose creating a new unit with non-sworn staff to offer personalized support to at-risk youth, aiming to prevent crime and promote positive outcomes without relying on punishment. By focusing on these priorities, I am committed to building a Minneapolis where everyone can thrive.
MY PRIORITIES
Public Safety
Public safety is fundamental to the success of our communities, and it requires a comprehensive approach. I believe that by strengthening community engagement and working closely with local precinct leaders, we can develop effective strategies that truly meet our needs. Reforming law enforcement is essential to rebuild trust, and I am committed to supporting alternative safety measures that enhance our community's well-being. I will also be a strong advocate for rehabilitation, mental health support, and career development, creating a secure environment where every community member has the opportunity to contribute positively.
Equitable Housing
Equitable housing is a critical issue that demands a forward-thinking approach. I am committed to increasing affordable housing opportunities and exploring pathways to homeownership, aiming to bring stability to all residents. I will actively work to strengthen collaborative efforts with county and state entities, as these partnerships are vital in addressing homelessness with compassion and effectiveness. My ultimate goal is to ensure safe, stable housing for everyone, while also addressing the broader social determinants that impact public health, such as drug addiction and mental health issues in our city.
Economic Opportunity
As a city council member, my focus on economic opportunity will involve enhancing job development through a strategic blend of public infrastructure, skilled labor, and educational opportunities. I am committed to prioritizing partnerships between businesses and labor organizations to drive economic growth. My strategy includes securing grants and investing in worker training to equip our workforce for the jobs of the future. Additionally, I will emphasize supporting our small business ecosystem, recognizing its vital role in sustaining a thriving community.
Our deep love for the city we call home fuels our optimism and drives our vision for a better future. However, to turn this optimism and our strong values into meaningful change, we must pair them with decisive action.
​
It's time for our city government to step up and:
-
Ensure clean and safe streets for all residents
-
Tackle our drug and behavioral health crises effectively
-
Build sufficient housing to address affordability challenges
-
Revitalize Nicollet and Chicago Avenue to support our small businesses
-
Develop a thriving economic future and enhance the quality of life for everyone
​​
We need a city that works together, embracing collaborative planning, decision-making, and action to overcome shared challenges.
I am committed to providing leadership rooted in genuine public service, always putting the needs of the people of Ward 8 first. I believe that to address these issues, we need clear communication, mutual respect, and a readiness to find common ground. Together, we can create a brighter future for our community.