One of the Brooklyn Park City Council’s newest members is just 22 years old and ready to hit the ground running.

Amanda Cheng Xiong will be the city’s youngest council member when she is sworn in this January, and she believes her age will only help her connect with the city’s broader population.

“Surprisingly, I always knew I wanted to run, even at an early age,” said Cheng Xiong, one of the newest members of the Brooklyn Park council.

Cheng Xiong was born and raised in Brooklyn Park and began the next chapter of his life on election night.

“I called my father, I called my mother, and I said, ‘I won,'” Cheng Xiong said.

Cheng Xiong defeated incumbent Boyd Morson in the eastern district with more than 60% of the vote. Now the focus shifts towards the task at hand.

“What I’m actually really excited about is making sure the voices of Brooklyn Park residents are truly heard,” Cheng Xiong said.

He also believes connecting with young people will be a big focus of his time in the office.

“Honestly, I just want to be an ally,” Cheng Xiong said. “I think a lot of times our young people are almost shy about getting involved in the political arena or just getting involved in social justice issues.”

Cheng Xiong also heard concerns about public safety from many voters. He believes public safety means many things, from environmental justice to mental health and, of course, crime.

“When I think about ensuring public safety in Brooklyn Park, I think I want a city where residents feel safe and welcome.” Cheng Xiong said.

Raised by Hmong refugee parents, Cheng Xiong says her family faced many inequities. That’s why his biggest passion is helping others, and he plans to do just that in his new role.

“It is truly an honor to be 22 years old and to see Brooklyn Park trust me to help lead and manage the city at this age,” said Cheng Xiong.