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Howard Bennis Deephaven City Council Campaign Logo

Howard Bennis for Deephaven City Council

Proven governance with a long-term perspective. Focused on the greater good of all residents.

As a third generation, lifelong resident of Deephaven, my connection to this special community spans several decades. 

 

My wife, Wendy, and I raised our three children here. One of our children, along with our three grandchildren, now live in Deephaven -
the Bennis family's 5th generation. 

I previously served for 13 years on Deephaven's city council, 9 of those as Mayor. That experience, my knowledge of the workings of our city and neighboring communities, as well as the connections made and maintained, continue to provide the qualifications for effective leadership today. 

I am as committed as ever to ensuring our community remains a special place for all residents to live, and would welcome the opportunity to serve you again.

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Experience that Makes a Difference

Served 13 years on Deephaven's city council,
9 of those as Mayor.

 

  • Successfully secured TIF funding for the construction of the Carson's Bay Bridge.
     

  • Led a 2-year initiative to establish the Excelsior Fire District, which also resulted in Deephaven gaining a
    fire substation.
     

  • Established the role of City Administrator. 
     

  • Began public works servicing for Greenwood. 
     

  • Began police services for Woodland.
     

  • Served on numerous committees, including the Minnetonka School District's Transportation and Elementary School Redistricting committees.

Howard Bennis at Carsons Bay Bridge
Howard Bennis at Deephaven Fire Station

Community-Minded Leadership in Action

Advocated for and supported substantive upgrades to City parks and amenites.
 

  • Expanded the dock system.
     

  • Upgraded the boat launch.
     

  • Renovated Deephaven Beach. 
     

  • Thorpe Park picnic shelter constructed. 
     

  • Initial Thorpe Park basketball court installed.
     

  • Initial paving of paths at Thorpe Park. 
     

  • Built the Thorpe Park hockey rink. 
     

  • Oversaw two years of planning, culminating in the community-wide Deephaven Centennial Celebration.
     

  • Initated quarterly meetings to build relationships
    and enhance communications with the 14 lake area
    city's representatives: Mayors, County Commissioners, and State elected officials. 

Howard Bennis at Deephaven Beach Gazebo
Howard Bennis at Thorpe Park with his dog, Ivan

Forward Looking, Common-Sense Context

Committed to strengthening what makes Deephaven a special place to live.  
 

  • Continue the commitment to and support of our police and public safety services.
     

  • Intentionally plan and responsibly budget for the
    ongoing maintenance and updating of existing city parks and amenities. 
     

  • Ensure sustained support of the City's existing plan for repair and resurfacing of the roads. 
     

  • Explore developing a plan for the removal of dead trees on city property.
     

  • Work to keep Deephaven safe and beautiful to enjoy now and for generations to come. 

Howard and Wendy Bennis
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