Two candidates for Brooklyn Center mayor will be on the general election ballot Nov. 3, giving voters the choice between a current council member and planning commission chair.
Mayor April Graves is not running for reelection, and on Aug. 11, the primary election narrowed a four-person candidate pool down to two: Teneshia Kragness and Alexander Koenig.
The candidate who wins this fall will serve a four-year term beginning in January 2027.
For more information on voting, visit brooklyncentermn.gov/government/elections.
The Sun Post reached out to candidates to compile this voter’s guide in advance of the general election. Responses from the candidates are below.
Alexander Koenig
Alexander Koenig
Current occupation
Business professional and civic leader
Education and prior experience
Chair, Brooklyn Center Planning Commission; nearly 10 years of Planning Commission service; professional experience in real estate and mortgage; Rotary Club president; experienced civic leader.
What is one short-term goal you would fight for if elected to serve as Brooklyn Center mayor for the next four years, and what is a long-term goal you would hope to achieve by the time that term expires?
My immediate goal would be to restore greater fiscal discipline while maintaining strong public safety and essential city services. Residents should see that their tax dollars are being used carefully and that difficult budget decisions are being made responsibly. Over four years, my goal would be to substantially strengthen Brooklyn Center’s tax base through strategic redevelopment and business investment. A stronger commercial tax base creates jobs and economic opportunity while reducing the disproportionate burden placed on homeowners. Success should be measured by tangible results: safer neighborhoods, responsible spending, new investment and a financially stronger city.
What type of development would prioritize when considering the future of city-owned parcels in Brooklyn Center, and how would you advocate for those projects as mayor?
I would prioritize development that strengthens Brooklyn Center’s tax base, creates quality employment, and brings lasting value to the community. That means pursuing commercial, business, entertainment, mixed-use and appropriate housing opportunities rather than viewing every available parcel through a single development lens. With nearly a decade on the Planning Commission, I understand the importance of location, infrastructure, surrounding neighborhoods, and long-term land-use decisions. As mayor, I would actively work with the City Council, staff, developers, businesses and regional and state partners to position Brooklyn Center competitively and turn underutilized property into productive, tax-generating development.
Brooklyn Center maintained a relatively low property tax levy increase last year, achieved in part through a reduction in city staff. How might the city improve its financial viability, and how might you encourage that as mayor?
Staff reductions alone are not a sustainable long-term financial strategy. Brooklyn Center must continually examine spending, prioritize essential services and demand measurable value from taxpayer dollars. At the same time, we cannot simply cut our way to financial strength. We need to expand the tax base by redeveloping underperforming commercial properties, attracting new businesses and returning underutilized land to productive use. As mayor, I would bring greater scrutiny to spending decisions while making economic development a fiscal priority. The long-term objective should be straightforward: a stronger tax base, responsible spending, quality services, and less pressure on homeowners.
What is the best way for voters to contact you?
alexanderkoenigmayor@gmail.com
Teneshia Kragness
Teneshia Kragness
Current occupation
Accountant, Councilmember (Mayor Pro Tem)
Education and prior experience
B.B.A. in accounting, magna cum laude; graduate studies in Christian Leadership and Business; 25 years in accounting; Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem.
What is one short-term goal you would fight for if elected to serve as Brooklyn Center mayor for the next four years, and what is a long-term goal you would hope to achieve by the time that term expires?
My short-term goal is to strengthen public safety by creating partnerships with residents, law enforcement, businesses and community organizations. Every family should feel safe at home and in their neighborhood. Over the next four years, my long-term goal is to strengthen Brooklyn Center’s economic base by actively supporting local businesses and promoting strategic development in our neighborhoods. I envision a safer, stronger, and more connected city where businesses want to invest, neighborhoods are cared for, residents know their voices matter and homeowners are not expected to carry so much of the tax burden.
What type of development would prioritize when considering the future of city-owned parcels in Brooklyn Center, and how would you advocate for those projects as mayor?
I would prioritize developments that strengthen our tax base and meet the needs of our residents. City-owned land belongs to the community, so every proposal must be evaluated based on its financial impact and its value to the surrounding neighborhood. As mayor, I would ensure residents are heard, work with the Council and city staff and actively seek developers who share our vision. I would advocate for projects that are financially responsible and benefit our residents. I want to help build a city where businesses want to invest.
Brooklyn Center maintained a relatively low property tax levy increase last year, achieved in part through a reduction in city staff. How might the city improve its financial viability, and how might you encourage that as mayor?
I have been vocal that I do not support reducing staff as a way to balance the budget. Our employees provide essential services, and financial stability should not come at the expense of our ability to serve residents. We must be good stewards of taxpayers’ money by identifying efficiencies, prioritizing spending, pursuing grants and partnerships and strengthening our tax base through responsible development. As mayor, I will work with the Council and city staff to advance transparent budgeting and long-term financial planning that protects essential services.
What is the best way for voters to contact you?
My campaign website: teneshiakragnessforbrooklyncentermayor.com