Published in the Sun Sailor, September 11, 2025
To the Editor:
This letter represents my personal views and support of Minnetonka City Councilmember Deb Calvert’s reelection, but is informed by my years serving with her on the Minnetonka Economic Development Advisory Commission (EDAC) where she has been the Council Liaison, and where I am now the chair.
Deb is the kind of public servant we all deserve. She shows up – prepared. She goes above and beyond by dedicating her time and knowledge in committee work like EDAC, and her many other committees.
Deb has been an effective liaison to the EDAC which advises the council on the economic and financial aspects of community development, housing, business/economic vitality, and transportation. Deb provides context from City Council meetings and study sessions and encourages the EDAC members to articulate their reasons for their recommendations to the Council based on their deep professional knowledge of development, financial principles, and business and to address the guidance council members may seek.
Deb has encouraged the city’s efforts to support the business community in a more robust and proactive way including a popular business newsletter, a regular business survey to identify emerging needs and trends and help local businesses and nonprofits address them, partnerships that provide access to technical assistance and consulting services for small businesses at no cost to them, and financial programs to support code compliance, meet emergency business needs, and promote job creation.
Deb was part of the City Council that approved an affordable housing policy that has allowed the city to exceed regional affordable housing goals for our seniors, teachers, nurses, and young families. She has also supported a rental registry program to help the city monitor the status and condition of rental properties across Minnetonka, and has approved several innovative home ownership programs, and home repair loan programs to keep low-income homes in good repair, thereby maintaining property values, and quality of life.
Her extensive knowledge of city government, and the many issues which affect Minnetonka, make her an invaluable asset and I wholeheartedly encourage you to vote for her on Nov. 4.
Jay Hromatka
Minnetonka
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