Winners declared in Minneapolis park, tax board seats

The Minneapolis Park Board elections concluded with victories for Dan Engelhart in District 1, Charles Rucker in District 2, Kedar Deshpande in District 3, and Cathy Abene in District 6. Incumbents Meg Forney and Tom Olsen retained their at-large positions, while newcomer Amber Frederick joined them after a brief City Council candidacy. Jason Garcia triumphed in District 4, despite a campaign hampered by appendicitis, and Kay Carvajal Moran defeated 12-year incumbent Steffanie Musich in District 5. The election highlighted voter priorities, including workforce relations, youth engagement in parks, and environmental protection. This shift indicates a potentially more progressive Park Board, as four commissioners chose not to seek re-election, allowing for new priorities.

The newly elected officials, including the youngest board members, will take office in January. Additionally, Steve Brandt was re-elected as President of the Board of Estimate and Taxation, alongside newcomer Eric Harris Bernstein. The board, responsible for setting the city's property tax levy, will include the mayor and other appointed members.