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I have deep concerns about the current state of political discourse in the Brooklyn Park City Council. As a citizen who deeply believes in the power of our democracy, I am disheartened to witness the increasing levels of argumentation, disrespect, and overall misbehavior within our government. As a candidate for the Central District City Council seat, I will work to change the “chemistry” of the City Council and restore respect and decorum in Brooklyn Park.

A healthy democracy thrives on open communication and the consideration of diverse viewpoints. Unfortunately, the current climate seems focused on scoring points and winning arguments rather than on collaborative problem-solving. This not only diminishes public trust in government but also hinders progress on critical issues that affect all of us.

The core purpose of the Council is to represent the people they were elected to serve. This means actively listening to the concerns of constituents, whether you agree with them or not. Council members must engage in respectful dialogue, consider all sides of an issue, and work towards solutions that benefit the greater good.

We deserve a government that functions with civility, respect, and a genuine desire to hear our voices. Let us move beyond unproductive arguments and focus on the collective task of building a better future for all.

Brooklyn Park, Minnesota (June 27, 2024) – The Brooklyn Park City Council has appointed Steven E. Antolak to the Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission representing the City At-large. The Commission manages the 16 lakes, streams, and wetlands in the Shingle Creek Watershed on behalf of the member cities which include Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Crystal, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, New Hope, Osseo, Plymouth, and Robbinsdale.

“I am pleased and excited to join the Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission to do the work of protecting our environment. The recent publication of the Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Blue Line Extension has revealed the likely impact of light rail development on the watershed" said Antolak. "I look forward to working cooperatively with all the stakeholders in the watershed to develop the best possible outcomes for the member cities while protecting our environmental legacy.”

Antolak is owns his own law practice and also serves as a part-time Referee on the Hennepin County Conciliation Court bench. He has previously served as a board member of the Three Rivers Park District from 2013 to 2021, the Brooklyn Park Planning Commission, and the Hennepin County Solid Waste Citizens Advisory Commission.

Brooklyn Park, Minnesota (June 4, 2024) – Steven E. Antolak made his candidacy official by filing the Affidavit of Candidacy with the Brooklyn Park City Clerk.  His name will appear on the ballot this August in the primary election as a candidate for Brooklyn Park City Council- Central District.

"Today I filed to run for the office of City Council Member in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. It is a high honor to be considered for the office of Councilmember" said Antolak. "I hope the citizens of our community give me the privilege to serve them on the Brooklyn Park City Council. This election offers a unique way for me to continue my commitment to public service by using my skills and abilities to serve our community.”
 
Antolak owns his own law practice and also serves as a part-time Referee on the Hennepin County Conciliation Court bench. He was elected to the ISD 279 Osseo Area Schools School Board in 2006 and served on the Intermediate District 287 School Board from 2006 through 2010. He served as a boardmember of the Three Rivers Park District from 2013 to 2021. Antolak was a member of a number of volunteer citizen commissions, including the Brooklyn Park Human Rights Commission, the Brooklyn Park Planning Commission, and the Hennepin County Solid Waste Citizens Advisory Commission.  

“As a citizen who deeply believes in the power of our democracy, I am disheartened to witness the increasing levels of argumentation, disrespect, and overall misbehavior within our government. As a candidate for the Central District City Council seat, I will work to change the “chemistry” of the City Council and restore respect and decorum in Brooklyn Park.”

Antolak and his wife, Joni, have been married for 38 years and are the parents of one son. The Antolaks are lifelong residents of Hennepin County and have lived in Brooklyn Park since 1990. The Antolaks have been active volunteers in a number of community organizations, including Scouting USA District Chairman, Park Center Moot Court Coach and History Day Judge, National Night Out Block Leaders, Knights of Columbus and ministries at St. Gerard Church.
 
Antolak is a graduate of University of Minnesota College of Liberal Arts with an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts and a B.A. in Economics and earned his Juris Doctor degree from the William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul, MN. He was a law clerk for the Ramsey County District Court from 1980-1982. He worked for the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office from 1982 through 1987 and has been engaged in the private practice of law since 1987.