The Bottom-Up Revolution How To Run for City Council as a Self-Taught Advocate
Sep 25, 2025
Donna Boelen, a former city council member from Bloomington, Illinois, shares her inspiring journey from a concerned resident to a self-taught advocate focused on fiscal sustainability and infrastructure. She discusses the challenges of campaigning as an independent, emphasizing the importance of door-to-door outreach. Donna also highlights her dedication to constituent service and consensus building, plus practical tips for aspiring candidates, including learning municipal history and budgeting wisely. Her insights shine a light on making local governance more accessible and effective.
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From Public Comment To Council Seat
- Donna began as a resident speaking at public comment about a dangerous, flooded drainage ditch behind her house.
- After four years pursuing fixes she decided to run for the city council to represent her ward directly.
Self‑Education Builds Credibility
- Donna taught herself municipal finance and infrastructure by reading city documents and reports.
- Learning the technical details let her hold council accountable with facts rather than emotion.
Shiny Projects Hide Long‑Term Costs
- Long-term fiscal impact often gets ignored in favor of shiny new projects.
- Donna linked infrastructure costs to fiscal sustainability to question expensive, debt-funded amenities.