GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — Golden Valley made history Tuesday night when the clerk swore in the city's first Black mayor.
Roslyn Harmon won the election by just 26 votes and takes over after an independent investigation rocked the city's police department last year.
It found the department had racist attitudes and there was alleged misconduct. That was followed by an officer's firing and then a force that dwindled to just seven officers at one point. Harmon says the number of officers on staff is now up to 19 — five of whom were sworn in two weeks ago.
Harmon has a background in restorative justice and is a longtime educator and therapist. She's used to working with people and plans to continue that work as the newest mayor.
"The fact that we really did not allow for some people to be able to share their truth in their voice, which is what restorative practices is all about," said Harmon. "People wanted to be heard."
Harmon has also lived in Golden Valley for 30 years, a city which is 85% white.
"We need healing and I’m here to do that," said Harmon. "I’m a bridge builder, this is the work that I do, and I do it pretty well, I think."
Harmon also wants to build affordable housing and transparency within the city that she will run for the next four years — even though she still doesn't want to call herself a politician.
"It’s not just me leading this city, it’s all of us working together to make sure that Golden Valley is the best city for everyone," said Harmon, who plans to spend the first year familiarizing herself with the new role, building relationships and working closely with staff, especially since two council members were also sworn in.
She does expect to end contract services with the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office this year, as the city's police department staffing levels have finally improved.
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