Brandy Van Riessen
Age: 37
Occupation: Executive Assistant, Council Bluffs Chamber of Commerce
Email: brandycbcitycouncil@gmail.com
My most important role in life is being a mom. I moved to Council Bluffs in 2017 and knew right away this is where I wanted to plant roots and raise my children. This community has given us so much, and now I’m proud to give back by running for City Council.
I currently serve as Executive Assistant at the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce and as Club Administrator for the Council Bluffs Noon Rotary Club. My career and community involvement have given me the opportunity to listen, connect people, and help find solutions that move our city forward. With kids in our public schools and deep roots in service, I care deeply about creating a community where families and businesses can thrive for generations to come.
| Question 1:
Population Growth & Economic Vitality Many residents and business leaders believe that growing the population of Council Bluffs is critical to near- and long-term economic vitality, workforce sustainability, and community vibrancy. Others are more cautious or uncertain about the need for growth, citing a desire to keep the community the way it is.
"I believe population growth is vital to Council Bluffs’ future. Growth strengthens our workforce, supports local businesses, and ensures we have the tax base needed to maintain high-quality city services. At the same time, it’s important that we grow in a way that preserves the history of our city and the character of our neighborhoods. I don’t believe growth should be rushed or unchecked. It should be planned, intentional, and supported by the right infrastructure, housing, and amenities. My vision is for Council Bluffs to be a place where our kids want to stay, where families want to put down roots, and where entrepreneurs and businesses see opportunity. By planning carefully, we can balance the urgency of attracting new residents with protecting the community we all love." |
| Question 2:
Attracting and Retaining Workers and Families Building and maintaining a strong workforce, particularly young professionals and families, is important to ensuring a strong future workforce and a vibrant local economy.
"To attract and retain workers and families, Council Bluffs must be a community where people want to build their lives. That means offering affordable housing options that meet the needs of young professionals and families, while also investing in safe neighborhoods, accessible childcare, and strong schools. Strengthening our workforce means supporting our local businesses and entrepreneurs. Supporting businesses who are creating pathways for job training, and building strong partnerships with our schools and community colleges. By combining these efforts, we can grow a talent pipeline that not only keeps our young people here but also draws new families and professionals to Council Bluffs." |
| Question 3:
Role of City Government in Economic Development Economic development is increasingly competitive across the Omaha/Council Bluffs metro, the Midwest, and the nation. Communities are vying for limited business investment, talent, and development opportunities. While these efforts are often driven by private and nonprofit partners, city government plays a vital role in creating the conditions for success through policies, infrastructure, incentives, and collaboration.
"City government should help create the conditions for businesses to thrive by supporting existing businesses while also attracting new investment. This means improving infrastructure, streamlining development processes, and keeping neighborhoods safe and welcoming. I believe the city should work closely with local organizations and schools to connect businesses with resources, training, and workforce development opportunities. With a balance of targeted incentives and strong support for existing businesses, we can grow Council Bluffs in a way that is sustainable and centered on community needs." |
Question 4:
Fiscal Responsibility & City Budgeting Developing and managing the city budget is one of the most important responsibilities of elected officials. A responsible budget must reflect community priorities, comply with legal and financial constraints, and respond to changing economic conditions. Understanding how city revenues are generated, and how those funds can and cannot be used, is critical to making sound decisions.
What experience do you have with budgeting, particularly in government, business, or nonprofit settings? Share your understanding of how a city budget works, including major sources of revenue and how city services are paid for. How would you approach developing and monitoring the city’s budget? What city services or projects would you prioritize?
"I have experience with budgeting in both nonprofit and business settings, including preparing and managing budgets, monitoring expenses, and ensuring accountability to boards and stakeholders. Through my work, I have learned the importance of aligning spending with organizational priorities and being transparent about how funds are used.
I understand that a city budget is funded primarily through property taxes, sales tax, fees, and state and federal funds. These revenues are used to pay for core services such as public safety, infrastructure, parks, and community programs.
If elected, I would approach the budget by focusing on fiscal responsibility, transparency, and community priorities. I would ensure funds are used efficiently and would prioritize essential services that keep our neighborhoods safe, maintain infrastructure, and support quality of life. At the same time, I believe it is important to plan for the future, investing in projects that strengthen our city’s long-term growth and stability."
| Question 5:
Downtown & Corridor Redevelopment Vibrant, well-designed corridors and a thriving downtown are key to a city’s identity, perception, and long-term economic momentum. In Council Bluffs, areas such as First Avenue, West Broadway, the riverfront, and the historic downtown, among others, serve as gateways to the community and focal points for housing, business, entertainment, and civic life. Redevelopment of these areas is central to attracting new investment, residents, and visitors.
"I see the historic 100 Block as the front door to Council Bluffs. It is often the first place we suggest to visitors for dining and entertainment, and by investing in the businesses already there while preserving their history, we can ensure it continues to thrive. The Riverfront also holds tremendous potential. With major developments happening across the river, Council Bluffs has a rare opportunity to attract new businesses, residents, and visitors while creating new spaces for our community to enjoy. By blending entertainment, green space, and connections to our history, the Riverfront can become a destination that strengthens our entire city. To support redevelopment, I would prioritize responsible use of tax increment financing, public–private partnerships, and state and federal grant opportunities. I also believe in working closely with organizations and local developers to encourage investment while protecting affordability and preserving the unique character of our historic areas. With smart incentives and thoughtful planning, our city can continue to grow aa a vibrant center of community and commerce." |
Council Bluffs Daily Nonpareil Questionnaire
1. Why do you want to serve in this office?
I am running for City Council because I believe in Council Bluffs and its future. This city has given so much to me and my family, and I want to give back by serving in a way that helps families, neighborhoods, and businesses thrive. With my experience in community service and working alongside local leaders, I know the importance of listening, collaboration, and thoughtful planning. My goal is to help shape a Council Bluffs that is safe, welcoming, and full of opportunity for current residents and for future generations.
2. What should voters expect if you’re elected?
If I am elected, voters can expect me to be accessible, transparent, and committed to listening. I will take the time to hear from residents, business owners, and community leaders so that decisions reflect the needs and priorities of Council Bluffs. I will focus on thoughtful growth, safe and welcoming neighborhoods, and strong support for local businesses. Most importantly, voters can expect me to lead with integrity and to work collaboratively so that we continue building a city where families and businesses thrive.
3. What’s the most important issue facing voters?
The most important issue facing voters is how Council Bluffs will grow in a way that strengthens our community without losing what makes it special. Population growth, housing, and workforce challenges are all connected, and how we respond will shape the city’s future. We need to ensure we have safe neighborhoods, affordable housing options, and strong support for local businesses so that families and young people see Council Bluffs as a place to stay and invest.
4. What's something else you plan to focus on?
I plan to focus on strengthening community engagement. Too often residents feel decisions are made without their voice. I want to create more opportunities for open communication between the city and the people who live and work here. By building stronger connections, we can ensure that policies reflect real community needs and that residents feel proud of the role they play in shaping Council Bluffs’ future.
5. Is the city going in the right direction?
Our city has not grown in population in more than 50 years, while the Omaha metropolitan area has seen significant growth. The dangers of decline in our city are real and concerning, and I would much rather face the challenges that come with growth than risk falling behind.
I believe we have strong leaders in place today, but the next step is focusing on how to move Council Bluffs forward. That means pursuing growth opportunities while also preserving the history and character that make our community unique and loved.
6. What is your position on the streetcar? Is that position firm or flexible?
As a native of Kansas City, Missouri, I have seen firsthand how successful a streetcar can be for a city. The KC Streetcar has driven billions in downtown investment, increased property values, and fostered economic growth since its opening in 2016. With the stagnant population growth of Council Bluffs, I believe it is smart to consider all options that could help strengthen the economic future of our community.
At the same time, my priority is ensuring that any investment truly benefits Council Bluffs residents, improves access to jobs and businesses, and does not place an undue burden on taxpayers. My position on the streetcar is open and flexible. I want to listen to residents, business leaders, and experts to fully understand the potential impact before committing to a path forward. Any decision on a project of this scale should be made with transparency and community input.
7. What’s a realistic timeframe to make housing no longer the city’s top priority?
Housing should remain a top priority for the city until the need is met. Adding new homes, revitalizing older housing, and expanding affordable options will take time and cannot be solved overnight. A realistic timeframe is five to ten years of steady, consistent effort with measurable progress along the way.
My goal is to see meaningful improvement each year so that within the next decade, housing shifts from being our top concern to one of many areas where Council Bluffs is thriving. Until then, addressing housing is essential to supporting families, attracting workers, and driving community growth.
8. If you could have the state adopt or change one policy, what would you want?
If I could see the state adopt one policy, it would be to expand support for childcare and working families. This could include offering incentives for employers to provide on-site or subsidized childcare, as well as increasing funding for after-school programs that support families and youth. When working families have reliable childcare, our workforce is stronger, our businesses are more successful, and our entire community thrives.
9. What else should voters know about you?
What I want voters to know about me is that I am deeply committed to this community both as a professional and as a mom raising my family here. I believe in listening first, finding common ground, and working together to solve problems. I am not a career politician, I am a neighbor who wants to make sure Council Bluffs continues to be a safe, welcoming, and thriving place for families and businesses.
10. In a sentence, why are you the right choice?
I’m the right choice because I bring a fresh perspective, a commitment to listening and leading with integrity, and a dedication to building a better future for Council Bluffs.