Coon Rapids Mayor - 2026 LWV ABC Candidate Forum

This transcript is from a 2026 mayoral candidate forum for the city of Coon Rapids, hosted by the League of Women Voters and CTN Coon Rapids. The candidates, Tuba Nuen and Pat Carlson, discussed their motivations for running, goals for the city, and approaches to key issues such as public safety, infrastructure modernization, housing affordability, and community engagement. Procurement-related topics included the need to rebuild aging infrastructure like water systems and roadways, investments in public safety equipment and training, and redevelopment of commercial properties such as the Family Center Mall and Northdale Shopping Center. Both candidates emphasized fiscal responsibility and the importance of collaborating with state and county officials to secure funding and support for capital projects. They also addressed the potential hiring of new police and fire chiefs, highlighting the qualities desired in those roles. While no specific contract awards or vendor selections were mentioned, the discussion reflected priorities that could influence future procurement and budget decisions in Coon Rapids.