Dear Neighbors,

Over the past four years, it has been a true privilege to serve you on the City Council. I'm grateful for every conversation, every question, and every opportunity to work alongside you to strengthen our community. As a 16-year resident, this work is personal to me and I approach it with a strong sense of responsibility and respect.

Much of the work before the Council may appear straightforward at first glance, but it often involves layers of complexity that require careful and thoughtful analysis. The decisions we make have far-reaching impacts on our neighborhoods, our families and our future. I believe our community deserves leaders who take the time to ask thoughtful questions and carefully evaluate every angle of every issue. That commitment ensures decisions are reasonable, balanced, well-informed, and aligned with Maple Grove's long-term success.

I've worked to apply my professional background in finance along with my experience as a systems and business analyst in meaningful ways throughout my service. This foundation has been especially valuable as we addressed major initiatives, long-range planning, and the responsibilities of financial stewardship and effective governance. By applying proven business practices, like disciplined budgeting, reducing waste, and grounding decisions in data, we've strengthened our processes, increased transparency, and ensured our policies support a unified, prosperous and thriving city.

Outside of my Council responsibilities, and while raising two teenagers, I've stayed closely connected to the everyday experiences of Maple Grove residents. I've been grateful for the opportunities to stay involved in our community through substitute teaching in our schools, graduating from the Community Police Academy, volunteering with local organizations, mentoring high school girls, serving through our church, and acting as a liaison to the Park Board, Arbor Committee and Community Center Owners Team.

These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the people who make Maple Grove such a special place. They serve as a constant reminder that behind every decision are real families, real concerns, and shared hopes for the future. The strength of Maple Grove has always been its people, and that belief continues to guide my work.

Thank you for your collaboration and trust over the past four years. I would be honored to earn your vote so I can continue giving back to the community that has given my family so much and to help build a legacy for the next generation that we can all be proud of.

— Rachelle Johnson