My name is Commissioner Meg Forney and I am running for re-election because I am passionate about the legacy of our park system. Parks raise everyone’s boat and Minneapolis has consistently been awarded the #1 Parks System by the Trust for Public Lands. This award is largely due to our founders, and it is up to all of us to responsibly steward that legacy. If re-elected, I will continue to work to protect and enhance the system for current residents and for future generations.
I am proud of the accomplishments during my first two terms.
With the City of Minneapolis, we collaboratively brought millions of capital dollars to address neglect in our neighborhood parks, using a first-ever racial equity matrix to determine where the funding should be prioritized over 20 years. I was one of the lead Commissioners in advocating for this initiative.
We added more strategic parkland to our system and targeted access gaps in underserved areas—particularly along the banks of our Mississippi River in North and Northeast Minneapolis.
We have master-planned the entire city’s park system to set a vision for long-term development and improvements. These plans guide not only each park, but also put forth policies for our Ecological System, our Urban Agriculture Activity, and our Recreational Activities.
Why a Vote for Meg is a Value-Added Vote
She is passionate about Parks.
She has proven commitment.
She practices public service.
She jumps in with both feet.
She finds creative solutions.
She is a team player.
She sees the big picture.
She listens before she acts.
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Still, there is more work to be done. Now more than ever, I believe we need to work to promote equitable park access for all families, to support the climate initiative, and to invest in programs for our city’s youth and seniors. Moreover, we need to pursue these goals in a financially sustainable manner that leaves a positive legacy for future generations. These opportunities will be the key focus of my next term, and that’s why I’m asking for your number-one-choice vote on November 2nd.
With several Commissioners declining to run for re-election, MPRB will see substantial turnover and many new faces. I have the proven park leadership experience to help bring the new board together to improve the lives of Minneapolis residents and families. I have chaired significant Park Board committees through my tenure — our Administration and Finance Committee and our Planning Committee. As an appointee to our Minneapolis Parks Foundation and on their Development Committee, I am proud of the efforts to leverage more dollars for our RiverFirst Initiative — some 18 million dollars.
We are still in the rapids as we navigate this pandemic. Policy changes, as well as economic programs to address city and park needs, are critical. Even so, in some areas we’ve calmer waters — 2020 was our best year at the Legislature — receiving $16 million from the State!
