Meet Brian

Hi, I’m Brian Strahan (rhymes with “strong”)  and I’m honored to be running for Minneapolis City Council in Ward 1. I've been a “NEster” since 2007 when my wife, Deborah, and I decided to plant our roots in this incredible, unique community. Since then, our roots have grown!  We’re now raising our two amazing (and overly enthusiastic) daughters, Scarlett (8) and Maggie (6), who attend Yinghua Academy.


A Background in Science, Building, and Community
I met my wife, Deborah, at the University of Minnesota, where I earned my B.S. in BioChemistry and conducted research there and in the private sector. After spending years in the lab, I realized that I wanted to do more than just conduct experiments and analyze data; I wanted to work with my hands and support my community in a tangible way. So I created Keep Smiling Builders, a small remodeling company where we focus on preserving the old-world charm of Northeast homes while making them more energy-efficient (once a scientist, always a scientist).

When Scarlett was born (and then Maggie) I got lucky enough to be a stay-at-home dad and helped them take their first steps. Oh, the joys of raising a young family in our city! Before we knew it, they had both started school, and I got a moment to take a breath, attend MCTC, study Architectural Technology and explore my true passion of urban planning and sustainable design.

Why I’m Running
For all my life, I’ve been thinkerer and a tinkerer, someone who prioritizes incremental change that delivers big results over time. I bring that mindset to local issues, and I know that creating thoughtful, practical policies powered by YOU, the neighbors and residents of Ward 1, will strengthen our already awesome community.

When my neighbors called on me to run for City Council, it reinforced what I already knew - that our community needs leadership that listens to and prioritizes what everyday residents actually want, need, and pay for. Too often, this City Council seems more focused on scoring political points than delivering on the core city functions and services that make our City, and most especially Ward 1, a really cool place to live, work and raise your family.

My family and I could not be more excited (especially Scarlett and Maggie) and humbled (especially myself and Deborah) to ask for your support. Just like designing and building a home, together we can make Ward 1 foundationally strong for generations to come. Come join and meet me at an upcoming event, and be sure to attend the DFL caucus on Tuesday, April 8th, 7pm at Edison High School.

Now let’s get to work!   

~ Brian Strahan