MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota (AX) — As we gear up for the November 5 election, the political scene in St. Cloud is ready for a transformation. A total of six candidates are vying for three at-large seats on the city council. Notably, Hudda Ibrahim and Omar Podi are two Somali-American leaders determined to confront the city’s most pressing challenges while amplifying the voices of its varied residents.
Hudda Ibrahim has been a key player in St. Cloud’s civic engagements for quite some time. Recognized for her contributions to initiatives like the Mayor’s Downtown Task Force and the “Dine and Dialogue” initiative—which encourages community interaction—she has also served on the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce board. Along the way, Ibrahim has cultivated a reputation as someone who builds connections.
Now 39, she is eager to channel her expertise into city governance, with a platform that prioritizes economic growth, affordable housing, and revitalizing the downtown area. “I can provide significant value to the city council and formulate a strategic, sustainable roadmap for our community,” she asserted, highlighting her commitment to supporting small enterprises and enhancing public safety.
To attract developers, Ibrahim proposes adaptable infrastructure policies and updated zoning regulations that would accommodate dense housing developments. She sees tremendous opportunity in repurposing downtown areas that may become available if Stearns County moves its justice center. “This is a golden chance for both public and private sectors to collaborate and breathe new life into that space, paving the way for creative housing solutions,” she pointed out.
Her academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in English literature and conflict resolution from the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University, a Master’s in conflict resolution from the University of Notre Dame, and comprehensive doctoral studies at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota.
The variety of backgrounds and ideas among the six candidates reflects the dynamism of the 2024 St. Cloud City Council election.
On a parallel note, Omar Podi, who landed in St. Cloud back in 2011, aspires to amplify a previously unheard voice at the city council table—the East African community. “Our community is maturing, yet lacks representation in the city of St. Cloud,” Podi noted, underscoring the urgency for leadership that embraces diversity.
Podi’s agenda puts a spotlight on St. Cloud’s housing struggle, which forecasts the need for up to 17,000 additional units in the next decade and a half. “We urgently need land to develop,” he said, advocating for forward-thinking regulations that bolster land usage and encourage growth.
As the proprietor of IFIYE Wireless Shop and a translator for governmental documents, Podi is acutely aware of the hurdles that small businesses and immigrant communities face. His vision for economic enhancement involves close collaboration with city leaders to ignite job opportunities—particularly significant following setbacks like the closure of the Electrolux factory. “Our focus should be on fostering economic development and attracting more job opportunities to our area,” he emphasized.
Podi’s earlier bid for the St. Cloud Area School District Board in 2020, earning 8% of the vote, illustrates his persistent devotion to public service.
The campaigns of both Ibrahim and Podi reflect the evolving demographics of St. Cloud and signify the city’s growing commitment to inclusivity and broader representation.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
