Jenna Kahly

Clay County Commission District 1 Candidate

As your commissioner, Jenna has been a fierce advocate for the needs of our county. Through her work on the Association of MN Counties Health and Human Services Policy Committee, Adult and Children’s Mental Health Local Advisory Councils, Clay County Collaborative, and Early Childhood Initiative she has fought for changes in legislature seeking better outcomes for our families, sustainable services, and investment in infrastructure. She is committed to providing the services our families need right here in Clay County.

Jenna wants not only our families, but our businesses to thrive. Through her work on the boards of the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, West Central Initiative Economic Development (vice chair), and Moorhead City Planning Commission she has promoted the growth and development of new business, workforce housing, and lobbied for our regional business needs with the state.

Vote for a commissioner with a proven track record of putting our people, environment, and businesses first!

Q&A with Jenna:

  • As your current commissioner, my priorities will continue to include responding to the increased need and demand for high levels of mental healthcare. I am working with state and local partners to increase crisis options, reduce stigma, and advocate for policy changes to improve outcomes. Another priority is responding to the childcare crisis and workforce issues. I will continue to work with policy makers for legislative change while keeping the safety and development needs of our children foremost. I regularly meet with local partners seeking to expand childcare capacity and support increased wages for early education professionals and access to benefits. I will continue to elevate minority voices and promote diversity and inclusion.

    All of these areas increase the wellbeing of our workforce, strengthen families, and with the expansion of quality and affordable childcare options, I hope our available worker pool expands locally as well.

  • I am 2 years into a 4 year term. Redistricting has triggered a re-election process to finish the rest of my term. I am working on a number of mental health and childcare initiatives, among other health and human services priorities and I want to keep the momentum going. I love serving my community in this way and want to keep fighting for our county.

  • Mental health and substance abuse needs are increasing and top the list of county priorities. During my first two years as Commissioner I have been a fierce advocate for the needs of our county, particularly in the areas of health and human services. Mental health, substance abuse prevention and response, and the continuum of care infrastructure are all areas where I am actively working with state and local coalitions. Together, we are seeking better outcomes for our families and changes in the legislature to improve and sustain services. I have been a strong supporter of the development of a Substance Abuse Crisis Center to replace our current medical detox facility which is inadequate to meet our needs.