2024 Senate District 14 Voter Guide
St. Cloud Mayor
Jake Anderson
Jake was born in Virginia, MN, and moved to St. Cloud in 1987. He graduated from St. Cloud Tech in 1998 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems from St. Cloud State University in 2003, graduating debt-free while working full-time. Since 2009, he has worked in Stearns County's IT department, becoming an IT project manager in 2010 after previous employment at GeoComm. Jake served on the St. Cloud Planning Commission from 2009 to 2020 and was elected to the City Council for Ward 3 in 2022, focusing on public safety and infrastructure. He resides in the Westwood neighborhood with his wife Rachel and their Golden Retriever, Ruby.
Website: https://www.jakeforstcloud.com
email: jakeforstcloud@gmail.com
St. Cloud City Council
Tami Calhoun
Tami is a dedicated community leader with a diverse background. She spent 34 years as a music teacher in St. Cloud, and was an active union member. She received her MA in Middle School Education from SCSU. She has been a leader with GRIP/ISAIAH, a non-profit, faith-based organization that addresses economic, education, health, racial and housing issues. She was a long-time participant in St. Cloud and Stearns County Community policing/sheriff agreements. She owns two businesses. Tami is endorsed by the Central Minnesota Trades and Labor Assembly.
Website: https://www.tamiformn.com
email: tamiformn@gmail.com
Hudda Ibrahim
Hudda Ibrahim is an accomplished educator and community leader with a strong academic background. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Conflict Resolution from the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University, followed by a Master’s in Conflict Transformation from the University of Notre Dame. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctorate in Education and Leadership at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, further enhancing her commitment to integrity and inclusivity in leadership. With nearly a decade of experience at St. Cloud Technical & Community College, Hudda teaches courses on Diversity and Social Justice, engaging with a diverse student body to understand their concerns and aspirations. She actively serves on several local boards, including the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mayor’s Downtown Task Force, which focuses on revitalizing the city. Hudda has received numerous accolades for her leadership, including the 5-Under-40 Award and recognition as one of Minnesota’s Young American Leaders. Her contributions extend to advisory roles for state officials and endorsements from organizations like “Women Winning.” Through her work, she strives to amplify the voices of all community members in St. Cloud.
Website: https://www.huddaforstcloud.com
George Hontos
George Hontos is a dedicated member of the St. Cloud City Council known for his strong work ethic and commitment to public service. He prides himself on being responsive to residents' concerns, from neighborhood issues to helping them understand the public process. George is known for his thorough preparation for council meetings, often researching issues extensively and reaching out to various resources to better understand the impact of council decisions. He is not afraid to ask questions and challenge the administration to ensure transparency and accountability. Throughout his tenure, George has been involved in several significant initiatives, including the creation of a skate park, co-founding the St. Cloud Area Sustainability Committee, and initiating the reorganization of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority. He has also played a key role in revising the city's financial policies, improving the budget review process, and establishing the Neighborhood Best Practices Committee. Additionally, George was instrumental in the relocation and construction of the current city library.
email: geohontos@gmail.com
Omar Abdullahi Podi
Omar is a community leader. Born in Somalia, Podi immigrated to the United States to escape civil unrest in his home country. He has since become an active member of the St. Cloud community, working to bridge cultural gaps and promote integration.
email: omarpodi1980@gmail.com
