PROFILE: Politics runs in the family for Decorah City Council candidate Johanna Bergan

(decorahnews.com's Sara Peterson's series of articles about Decorah City Council candidates continues, this week focusing on the two candidates for 5th Ward city council member.  Below is our profile of hallenger Johanna Bergan--our profile of incumbent Charles Lore was posted on Monday):

Johanna Bergan's interest in city government stems from her family's long history of political involvement (her father is Iowa State Representative Michael Bergan) and her political science studies at Luther College. She says she understands the importance policy plays in government, but is especially energized by the potential local government has to produce tangible results. Bergan serves as the Executive Director of Youth MOVE National, where she has works as a facilitator and leadership trainer for youth. Her decision to run for Decorah City Council was prompted by her desire to lead by example and represent female voices in Decorah.

In addition to bringing a new voice to thecity's leadership team, Bergan's priorities include: creating a long-term vision for Decorah's future, addressing the need for affordable housing, maintaining and improving the city's aging infrastructure, and developing a strong partnership with the school district.

Bergan says, "My commitment to servant leadership and giving to my community runs deep. I am committed to raising my family in Decorah, and I care about how our community functions and grows. We keep talking about wanting to make Decorah a place for young families to move to, but we need to actually walk that talk. We need to ask long-term questions and make long-term plans to make Decorah a viable place to live for future generations."

To contact Johanna Bergan, email johannafordecorah@gmail.com or call (563) 380-9674.