Kassandra Sofferman

I’ve actively volunteered in the Fargo-Moorhead area for several years, collaborating with organizations and stakeholders to address community needs. My experiences have given me a deep understanding of what our community requires. I hold three bachelor’s degrees and am pursuing a Master of Social Work. I aim to bring a "lived experience" perspective to the Moorhead City Council, drawing from my own experiences growing up in poverty. This background fuels my passion for supporting low-income individuals and families, and I’m committed to advocating for policies that will uplift our community.

• Provide more opportunities for low-income individuals and families

• Increasing access to high quality and more affordable childcare

• Public safety

The most pressing issues facing our community in the next five years are public safety concerns: increasing crime rates, addiction, and the ongoing housing shortage. To address these, I would advocate for expanding access to affordable housing to provide stability and reduce crime. Additionally, I would support initiatives that enhance community-based policing and addiction treatment programs, focusing on prevention and rehabilitation. Collaborating with local organizations, law enforcement, and mental health professionals will be key to creating a safer, healthier, and more stable community for all residents.

To attract and retain businesses and workforce, I would advocate for strategies that prioritize supporting small local businesses and tradespeople. These businesses are the backbone of our community, providing jobs, unique services, and fostering economic resilience. Additionally, I would promote workforce development programs that partner with local schools and trade organizations to equip residents with the skills needed for high-demand jobs. By investing in our local economy and tradespeople, we can create a thriving, sustainable community.

My first step would be to collaborate with developers, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders to identify and secure funding for affordable housing projects. I would also prioritize ensuring that housing initiatives are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to community needs.