Because I’m a lifelong resident of Brookings and a student studying government, I’m very much interested in the success of our community and local government.

That’s why I’ve helped Al Austreim run for the City Council. Here’s why I’m enthusiastic about helping Al: 1) His focus on community engagement as opposed to eliminating avenues for citizens to voice their concerns, 2) He understands that our town’s growth needs to be supported by the right infrastructure, workforce development, and safety procedures, and 3) His background of successful small-business and community involvement proves to me that he can get the job done efficiently.

I read a letter to the editor last week that characterized Al’s candidacy for City Council as “a special agenda or an axe to grind.” Respectfully, Al’s “agenda” is to get community input back involved and his “axe to grind” is working tirelessly and transparently for the people of Brookings. Rather than get involved in partisan and hurtful politics, Al has been speaking with the entire community and hearing their opinions. That’s the type of city councilor we need. Please join me in voting for Al Austreim for City Council now until April 8 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. or on Election Day, April 9.