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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.

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Why am I Running

I'm running for Minneapolis City Council in Ward 8 because our city is at a critical crossroads, and it's time for a fresh start. Many residents feel we're stuck, yearning for better city services, accountable public safety, vibrant neighborhoods, and protection for our most vulnerable. Having engaged deeply with voices across every neighborhood, I've shaped my vision and priorities to meet these needs.

I believe in moving beyond the grievance politics of today, focusing on a forward-looking agenda where everyone can thrive. With over 25 years of experience in contract negotiation, budget management, and stakeholder collaboration, I bring the skills necessary for this pivotal moment. My deep ties to Minneapolis fuel my commitment to community engagement and fostering a safer, more equitable city.

My vision includes a comprehensive approach to public safety, with 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.

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A VISION FOR WARD 8
Advancing with Ideas, Not Boundaries

Public Safety

I am committed to continued law enforcement reform, and strive to ensure that the two consent decrees remain central to policing in Minneapolis. This includes maintaining a fully staffed police department, expanding mental health support, and developing domestic violence prevention initiatives. Public safety is essential for our community's well-being, requiring a comprehensive and inclusive strategy. By enhancing community engagement and collaborating with local precinct leaders, we can develop strategies that truly meet our community's needs. I am dedicated to rebuilding trust through reform and supporting alternative safety measures. I will also advocate for rehabilitation, mental health services, and career development opportunities to foster a safe environment where every community member can thrive.

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."

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.

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