The 2026 city council race in Crystal may result in a change at the dais in city hall.
Ward 1’s Therese Kiser and Ward 2’s Traci Kamish, both incumbents, have filed for reelection and are running uncontested. However, incumbent Forest Eidbo from Section 2 faces a challenger this year. The winners of these three elections will serve for the next four years in Crystal’s head governing body, alongside Mayor Julie Deshler and council members John Budziszewski and Taji Onesirosan.
For the contested Section 2 race, the Sun Post invited both candidates to respond to three questions for the voter’s guide. Section 2 consists of the northern half of Crystal, Wards 3 and 4.
To find your polling place, learn how to register and find out more about who’s on your ballot, visit myballotmn.sos.mn.gov.
Forest Eidbo
(Submitted photo)
Forest Eidbo (incumbent)
Biography: I grew up in this community and graduated from Cooper High School before earning a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science and Policy at the University of Minnesota. After working as a park ranger for the Army Corps of Engineers, I returned for a master’s in natural resource planning. I’ve since worked for the MN DNR, the National Park Service, and currently the MN Department of Commerce. My wife and I love hiking, traveling, DIY projects, and our two dogs.
What are your top budget priorities? In what areas, if any, could the city scale back?
When I ran for city council four years ago, the budget was not a main issue; however, within my first year it became my top priority. In a budget meeting, I called attention to the fact that the city had seriously depleted its reserves over the previous few years. Over the last four years, we made hard choices to bring our reserves back to the legal minimums and correct the policies that led us to this situation. I am proud of our current budget and know it serves the right balance of needs. When looking at budget requests I only support new expenditures that are investments and see bigger gains long term.
What separates you from the other candidate?
I am the only candidate who has been showing up day after day, doing the hard work of advocating for Crystal residents. Whether it was during Operation Metro Surge, the Flock camera contract cancellation, budget discussions, natural resources, or just helping residents with neighborhood issues, I understand what it takes to get things done and represent you. Take a look at my website to see all the work I’ve accomplished this first term.
Do you think the City Council is taking Crystal in the right direction? What could be done differently, and what changes would you want to make?
I am excited about where Crystal is headed; our city is on the precipice of becoming a destination for the west metro. When I ran for council four years ago, I promised to create a proactive strategy that would ensure we have an attractive and bustling downtown area, and last year we developed a long-term strategy to attract and guide private development in Crystal’s downtown that matches market trends and resident desires. We also passed our first detailed strategic plan for city operations, ensuring we are doing what needs to be done today for the future. Crystal has always been a gem, but with the plans, policies, and financial security we have set these last four years, we are going to shine!
Matt Majerus
(Submitted photo)
Matt Majerus
Biography: I grew up in Apple Valley but my family moved often due to my father’s employment with General Dynamics. I attended the U of M and Dakota Vo Tech for Automotive School. I now own an auto repair shop in Robbinsdale with my second location in Hastings opening soon. I’ve lived in Crystal with my wife and son for 14 years and my business ownership experience will bring a fresh perspective to the City Council.
What are your top budget priorities? In what areas, if any, could the city scale back?
My top budget priority is to make our city more prosperous by spending taxpayer dollars wisely. I would conduct a thorough review of every department, eliminate waste and unnecessary duplication, renegotiate contracts where possible, and focus funding on essential services and infrastructure. I would also pursue grants, public-private partnerships, and economic development that expand our tax base. My goal isn’t simply to cut budgets — it’s to improve efficiency, protect core services, and deliver better results for taxpayers.
What separates you from the other candidate?
What separates me from Forest Eidbo is my approach to leadership. I’m focused on bringing a fresh perspective to the Crystal City Council, listening directly to residents, and making sure every decision is grounded in accountability, responsible spending, and the long-term needs of our community. I respect my opponent and the work he has done, but I believe Crystal is ready for new ideas, stronger communication with residents, and a council that is focused on practical results rather than politics.
Do you think the City Council is taking Crystal in the right direction? What could be done differently, and what changes would you want to make?
I believe Crystal has many strengths, but I also believe we can do better. Our City Council should be more focused on listening to residents, controlling costs, and making sure we get the best value for every taxpayer dollar. I would push for greater transparency in spending, stronger communication with residents, and practical planning for infrastructure, public safety, and economic development with an emphasis on strong locally owned businesses. I want Crystal to be a city that is financially responsible, well-maintained, welcoming to families and businesses, and prepared for the future—not simply maintaining the status quo.