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Planning commission chair Amanda interviews for Minnetonka Ward 2 seat, emphasizes data-driven decisions
Summary
Amanda, chair of the City of Minnetonka Planning Commission and an R&D manager at Boston Scientific, told council members she favors zoning-code updates, prioritized budgeting, and data-driven public engagement to expand housing choices while protecting neighborhood character.
Amanda, introduced by Mayor Rebecca Schack as chair of the Minnetonka Planning Commission, appeared before the council during the special meeting to be considered for the Ward 2 vacancy.
She said she has served on the planning commission since 2020 and leads public hearings that gather citywide input. Professionally she manages research and development teams at Boston Scientific, which she said gives her experience in objective, data-driven decision-making.
Amanda cited recent projects as examples of redevelopment the city has handled well — walkable housing near Ridgedale and rehabilitation of aging buildings — and said Minnetonka’s tree ordinance helps preserve neighborhood character. She voiced support for the current effort to revamp the zoning code, saying changes to setbacks and allowable housing types could create more options for different household sizes.
On financing affordable units, Amanda said the council plays a role in shaping programs but expects that implementation will require collaboration with economic-development and finance partners. She praised the city’s new prioritized-budgeting approach and said aligning spending with stated goals will increase transparency.
Asked how she would handle disagreement, Amanda pointed to code and the comprehensive plan as objective bases for council debate and emphasized civil, evidence-based discussion.
She told council members she had been encouraged by others to apply, and that she would approach the seat as an opportunity to listen and represent Ward 2 residents.
