I have been a resident of Oakdale since I purchased my first house in 2001. My daughter is currently in college studying aviation. We have a silver lab, who is very much a spoiled member of our family.
I graduated from the University of Minnesota. Prior to that, I graduated from St. Bernard’s High School, where I played volleyball and softball. Raised in family businesses, I am the General Manager at a local small business and in 2015, I started my photography company. My volunteer experience as President of my Home Owners Association Board as well as the President of my daughter’s Home and School Association has given me parliamentary procedure experience. All of this has prepared me for this next chapter. A natural born leader, I am an enthusiastic, organized, and hardworking collaborator, focusing on results to bring unified goals and successful outcomes to organizations. I have a high level of integrity and responsibility.
I absolutely love living in Oakdale and would be honored to serve on the City Council.
City Council Vision
Discover my vision for our community and the positive changes I aim to bring as your city council representative.
Why I Am Running for City Council
As a dedicated member of our community, I believe in the power of local governance to bring about positive change. My commitment to transparency and accountability will ensure that every resident’s voice is heard and valued.
I am running for City Council because I want to make a difference in our community. With a focus on sustainable development, public safety, and enhancing local services, I aim to create a thriving environment for all residents. Together, we can address the challenges we face and build a brighter future for our city.
My top three priorities for serving on the Oakdale City Council would be; public safety, fiscal responsibility to the tax payers, and listening to residents’ concerns.
At the forefront of any government should be public safety. Residents need to feel safe and welcomed in the community in which they reside. Fiscal accountability is as important as safety. As a City Council Member, one has to be accountable to those they represent, using money wisely and avoiding wasteful spending. Listening and engaging with my fellow residents is an integral part in making decisions for the city. Listening to others and having knowledge of the issues is key to making sound decisions for the best interest for the City of Oakdale.
I invite you to join me on this journey towards a better future. Your support is crucial in making our vision a reality. Together, we can foster a community that prioritizes the needs of its residents and ensures a prosperous future for generations to come.
Professional Experience
Instant Inventory Service, Lake Elmo, Minnesota 1987-current
General Manager
Oversee all aspects of the day-to-day operations of the business. Plan a yearly budget, meet with clients and provide estimates. Implement proprietary software, train new personnel, manage field crews, and process payroll and accounts receivable. Data entry, with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency.
Jen Kimlinger Photography, Oakdale, Minnesota 2015- current
Owner and Photographer
Maintains website and social media. Meets with potential clients for wedding, family, senior portraits, real-estate and other photography projects. Collaborates with others in the industry to continue to grow in my craft and stay current with trends.
Lakeside Homes, Inc., New Brighton, Minnesota 2001 – 2015
Office Manager
Effectively worked as part of a team to manage a manufactured housing community. Responsibilities included: rent collection, accounts payable and accounts receivable, property inspections for compliance, generated violation notices, and processed CRP tax forms.
Executive Assistant to CEO
Updated Bylaws, created newsletters, maintained membership lists, and planned community events for Minnesota State Association of Parliamentarians, Minnesota Federation of Republican Women, Minnesota Women in City Government, Council of Catholic Women and New Brighton/Mounds View Rotary.
Volunteer Experience
Saint Ambrose of Woodbury Catholic Community, Woodbury, Minnesota
President of Home and School Association 2014-2015
Ran the fundraising arm of Saint Ambrose Catholic School, chaired Board meetings and served on several event committees. Implemented a new fundraiser that raised 50% more funds than in years past.
The Country Villas of Oak Run Shores HOA, Oakdale, Minnesota. 2020 – 2024
President & Treasurer 2022-2024
Secretary 2020-2022
Chaired HOA meetings and Annual meetings, provided reports to the members, set budgets, planned community events, voted on policies for the community, and listened to residents’ concerns. Oversaw Rules and Regulations and Budget Sub-Committees. Managed two capital improvements projects: obtained estimates and coordinated with the contractors.