MEET JOSH
I'm Josh Bassais, a lifelong resident of Minneapolis, deeply rooted in the community of Ward 8. My journey through life has been greatly influenced by my upbringing in Minneapolis Public Schools, attending Lyndale Elementary, Anwatin Middle, and Southwest High School. Raised by my dedicated single mother, who managed to purchase our family home on a restaurant server's wage, I continue to live in that same home with my wife and two children, who are also enrolled in Minneapolis public schools.
​
My activism began early, inspired by my mother's commitment as a union member for over 40 years. By middle school, I was participating in union picket lines. After college, I engaged with the DFL party, serving as a Precinct Chair.
​
Embracing my family's legacy, I joined a union, serving as a business agent to facilitate collective bargaining and advocate for workers' rights. My dedication continued with LIUNA, The Laborers Union, where I empowered workers and strengthened union presence.
​
Currently, I work in Artificial Intelligence at Thomson Reuters, leveraging my extensive experience in labor unions and business. This has honed my unique blend of grassroots activism and professional acumen.
​
Beyond my career, I'm engaged in the community, having served as Board President for the Lyndale Neighborhood Association and coaching youth sports, instilling teamwork and resilience in young athletes.
​
I am committed to fostering a future for Minneapolis that celebrates diversity, strength, and resilience. Join me in this journey to bring about meaningful change in our cherished city.
Professional Experience and Commitment
​
With a strong background in marketing and union work, I developed innovative strategies and fostered collaboration. As a Regional Organizer, I helped non-union workers establish new chapters, strengthening presence through trust and collaboration. As a Business Agent, I facilitated collective bargaining and advocated for employees.
​
I am equipped with the skills necessary to accomplish initiatives in Minneapolis, ensuring clean and safe streets, addressing health crises, providing housing, and revitalizing business areas. Together, we can drive positive change and create a future that honors our community's diversity and resilience. Let's collaborate to prioritize genuine public service for Minneapolis.
Why am I Running
I am running for Minneapolis City Council in Ward 8 because our city is at a pivotal moment, requiring steady, common-sense leadership that truly listens to and amplifies the voices of its residents. Many community members feel we are at an impasse, yearning for improved city services, responsible public safety, vibrant neighborhoods, and robust support for our most vulnerable populations. Through meaningful engagement with individuals from every neighborhood, I have developed a pragmatic vision and clear priorities designed to address these essential needs.
​
Common sense and pragmatic leadership are essential to navigate the complexities of our city's challenges. In times of uncertainty, it is crucial to focus on solutions that are practical, effective, and grounded in reality. My 25 years of experience in contract negotiation, budget management, and stakeholder collaboration have equipped me with the skills needed to approach issues with a level-headed perspective, ensuring decisions are made with the best interests of our community in mind.
​
My vision includes a comprehensive approach to public safety, incorporating community input, law enforcement reform, enhanced mental health support, and 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 tackling 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 for future job markets.
​
Additionally, I stand in solidarity with our marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+, people of color, and immigrant residents, to protect and defend against divisive policies at the federal level. Together, we can create a Minneapolis where everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered.
As we navigate the complexities of city governance, pragmatic, data-driven policymaking is crucial. We must frame our key issues in terms of "and" rather than "or," ensuring that every resident has a stake in this city's future. By fostering collaboration and understanding, we can move beyond divisiveness and work towards solutions that benefit all. As your council member, I will prioritize community needs and advocate for policies that promote racial healing, economic revitalization, and basic income programs. Let's work together to shape the future of Minneapolis, ensuring that our city remains a place of opportunity, inclusivity, and growth for everyone.
A VISION FOR WARD 8
Advancing with Ideas, Not Boundaries
Public Safety
Public safety is a cornerstone of my campaign, and I am honored to be endorsed by our courageous Minneapolis Firefighters. My commitment includes maintaining a fully staffed police department, expanding mental health support, and developing domestic violence prevention initiatives. Our Community-First Public Safety Plan emphasizes crime reduction strategies rooted in public engagement and research. By enhancing community involvement and collaborating with local precinct leaders, we aim to develop strategies that address our community's needs. I am dedicated to rebuilding trust through reform and supporting alternative safety measures, including rehabilitation and career development, to create a safe environment for all.
Equitable Housing
To lower housing costs in Minneapolis, the city should focus on affordable housing by incentivizing mixed-income projects and simplifying zoning regulations. Offering tax breaks or subsidies to developers who include affordable units and supporting programs that assist low-income families with down payments or rent should be considered. Collaborating with community organizations for innovative solutions is essential.
I support expanding mixed-income, social housing to create diverse, inclusive communities. Addressing equitable housing requires a progressive approach. I am committed to increasing affordable housing, exploring homeownership pathways, and partnering with county and state entities to compassionately address homelessness and related social issues.
Economic Opportunity
As a city council member, I am dedicated to expanding economic opportunities by advancing job creation through improved public infrastructure, skilled labor, and educational initiatives. I will cultivate partnerships between businesses and labor organizations to stimulate growth and secure funding for workforce training. Supporting small businesses is essential for a vibrant community. Furthermore, I champion restorative justice programs, offering job training for individuals re-entering society after incarceration, and fostering collaborations with local businesses for employment and mentorship opportunities. I also support education and skills development programs, like vocational training and apprenticeships, to promote workforce integration and community healing.
Josh on Issues Important to Ward 8
George Floyd Square
"Minneapolis has a chance to honor George Floyd's legacy and revitalize the community at 38th and Chicago. Despite community support for change, the City Council's indecision has left the site unchanged five years after his death. By adopting a flexible-open street plan, the city can enhance infrastructure, create jobs, and promote economic growth. It's time to act decisively to ensure that George Floyd's story remains a key part of our history, reflecting justice, equity, and progress."
Youth Crime
"As someone invested in addressing youth crime in Ward 8, I believe effective solutions include bolstering creditable diversion programs, fostering positive youth programing, and offering family therapy. These strategies can reduce reliance on incarceration, prevent reoffending, and promote healthier family dynamics. Additionally, early intervention and violence prevention are crucial for keeping our young people on the right path."
Property Taxes
"I'm deeply concerned about rising property taxes in Minneapolis and their impact on working families. The city's budget discussions often overlook this issue, focusing more on spending priorities. With the budget growing and commercial property values declining, residential taxes have increased, shifting the burden onto less wealthy neighborhoods. It's crucial for the city to manage its finances better and alleviate pressure on middle-class families."
My Approach
Public Safety
Better Coordination
​
-
Optimal cooperation: I aim to enhance the integration of Violence Interrupters, Behavioral Crisis Response, Police, Fire, and 911 services to improve resource sharing and efficiency.
-
Performance Metrics: I will work to develop clear metrics, such as community satisfaction surveys and response times, to ensure accountability and transparency in our operations.
​
Staffing Challenges
-
Addressing Shortages: I fully support efforts to attract and retain public safety professionals through career development opportunities and active community engagement.
Role of Police
-
Evolving Role: I’m committed to redefining police responsibilities to focus on community service and support, while exploring alternatives to traditional 911 responses for a more holistic approach.
Residency and Community Relations
-
Encouraging Residency: I advocate for initiatives that encourage officers to live in the communities they serve, fostering better relationships and understanding.
-
Improving Relations: I will work to strengthen police-community relations by promoting dialogue, transparency, and collaborative problem-solving.
Reform Imperatives
-
Community-Oriented Recruitment: I emphasize recruiting a diverse police force that reflects community values and prioritizes guardianship over enforcement.
-
Multi-disciplinary Approach: I support incorporating social workers and mental health professionals into our public safety strategies to build trust and address complex social issues.
Broader Public Safety Ecosystem
​
-
Holistic Safety Measures: I believe public safety should be approached comprehensively, including neighborhood improvements, collaboration with public entities, and providing youth opportunities to foster safer communities. By addressing the broader ecosystem, we can create environments that support long-term safety and well-being.
Housing
Increase Funding and Incentives
-
Secure Additional Funding: I'm committed to exploring state and federal grants, forming public-private partnerships, and seeking innovative financing methods to enhance the affordable housing budget.
-
Tax Incentives: I will advocate for tax breaks or credits for developers who build affordable units to encourage their active participation.
Policy Reforms
-
Address Construction Costs: I plan to initiate policies that can lower material and construction costs, such as subsidies for sustainable materials or strategies like bulk purchasing agreements.
-
Environmental and Regulatory Balancing: I'll strive to streamline regulations to eliminate unnecessary costs while upholding strong environmental standards.
Community Engagement
-
Inclusive Planning: I'll ensure community members and stakeholders are actively involved in planning processes to guarantee solutions are tailored to local needs.
-
Transparent Communication: I aim to maintain open communication with residents to build trust and obtain valuable feedback on housing initiatives.
Comprehensive Planning
-
Integrated Urban Planning: I am focused on aligning affordable housing strategies with broader urban development plans, with an emphasis on transportation, employment opportunities, and social services.
-
Zoning Adjustments: I'll explore changes to zoning laws that support higher density and mixed-use developments incorporating affordable housing.
Collaborative Efforts
-
Public-Private Partnerships: I'll work to create strong partnerships between government, private developers, and non-profit organizations to leverage resources and expertise effectively.
-
Cross-Sector Collaboration: I'll engage with sectors like education, healthcare, and transportation to develop holistic solutions that address housing and related community needs.
Promote Ownership Housing
-
Support Ownership Models: I'm dedicated to encouraging the development of ownership options like cooperatives and community land trusts to promote long-term wealth-building.
-
First-Time Homebuyer Programs: I will work to expand programs that assist first-time homebuyers with down payments and offer favorable loan terms.
Economic Opportunity
Solutions and Interventions
-
Short-Term Training Programs: I propose investing in short-term certifications for quick access to well-paying jobs, particularly for adults who can't pursue long degrees.
-
Career and Technical Education (CTE): Expanding CTE to match employer needs will create clear career advancement paths and prevent dead-end jobs.
-
Community Marketing: I'll enhance awareness of training programs in low-income areas through targeted marketing.
-
Workforce Development Partnerships: I'll build partnerships between training organizations and employers to fill skill gaps and foster diverse talent pipelines.
Role of the City and Collaboration
-
Policy Alignment: I aim to shift focus from low-wage jobs to high-demand skill training for future job markets.
-
Inclusive Economic Growth: Workforce initiatives must be inclusive, benefiting marginalized groups.
-
Support for Employers: I'll support business partnerships with training providers to create a diverse workforce.
Community Impact and Benefits
-
Economic Mobility: I'm committed to offering pathways to the middle class through accessible training and job opportunities.
-
Business Benefits: A skilled, diverse workforce will drive economic growth and meet business needs.
-
Social Networks: I'll promote environments where working adults support younger generations, fostering job opportunities.
Our love for our city inspires optimism and a vision for a brighter future, but meaningful change requires decisive action. It's time for our city government to:
​
-
Ensure clean and safe streets
-
Effectively address drug and behavioral health issues
-
Build affordable housing
-
Revitalize Nicollet and Chicago Avenue to support small businesses
-
Foster economic growth to improve quality of life
​
We need a collaborative city that plans, decides, and acts together to tackle shared challenges. I am dedicated to leading with genuine public service, prioritizing the needs of Ward 8. Through clear communication, mutual respect, and finding common ground, we can build a better future for our community.
Endorcements
