Shakopee School Levy Passes, New Leadership Elected in Jordan
By Mike Franklin
Voters in Shakopee and Jordan made crucial decisions Tuesday about their local leadership and school funding, including the approval of Shakopee Public Schools' Safety & Technology Levy renewal and the selection of new city leaders.
Shakopee voters strongly supported the renewal of the district's Capital Projects Levy, with 62.43% (14,951 voters) voting in favor and 37.57% (8,999) opposing. The renewal maintains the existing levy's terms and tax rate for another ten years, beginning in the 2026-27 school year.
"As a district, we are extremely grateful that we can continue to keep each and every member of our student and school community safe, and thriving to the best of our ability," said School Board Vice Chair Kristi Peterson following the results.
Both Shakopee and Jordan school districts saw significant elections for their governing boards. In Jordan, incumbents Molly Monyok and Lauren Pedersen retained their seats on the school board, receiving 2,412 votes (20.83%) and 2,137 votes (18.45%) respectively. Newcomer Christina Olson secured the third open seat with 2,015 votes (17.40%), edging out Matt Bertrang (1,969 votes) and incumbent Sara Lehnen (1,825 votes).
In the Shakopee School Board race, voters chose to retain incumbents Jeffrey Smith (current Board Chair) and Tim Brophy (current Board Clerk), while also electing newcomer Nick Zitek to serve four-year terms. The three will help guide the district's future following the departure of Mohamed Ibrahim, whose term ends January 6, 2025.
Superintendent Mike Redmond expressed optimism about the election results, particularly regarding the school board composition. "We have an extremely dedicated and service-oriented School Board that is committed to doing the right things– ensuring success for each and every student in our district," he stated.
City leadership will see both change and continuity across the region. In Shakopee, voters re-elected incumbents Jesse Lara and Jay Whiting for the two open city council seats from a field of eight candidates. Lara led with 5,748 votes (19.30%), while Whiting secured 5,690 votes (19.10%). Mustafa C. Sandhu finished third with 3,669 votes (12.32%), followed closely by Ken Ludzack with 3,622 votes (12.16%).
In Jordan's mayoral race, Travis Fremming emerged victorious with 59.38% of the vote (2,020 votes), defeating former Mayor Tanya L. Velishek, who received 40.27% (1,370 votes). Fremming will succeed outgoing Mayor Mike Franklin, who did not seek re-election. Velishek had previously served as Jordan's mayor from 2017-2021. In the city council race, voters re-elected incumbents Jeremiah Monyok (1,239 votes) and Robert C. Whipps (1,143 votes), and elected newcomer Jonathan Pho (1,158 votes) for the three open seats.
Mayor-elect Fremming stated “I want to express my gratitude to the residents of Jordan for allowing me to serve as Mayor and to Tanya Velishek for running a spirited campaign. In January, I look forward to collaborating with the Council and working for the residents and businesses of Jordan.”