Josh Benesh is good at listening. It’s a skill he says he’s carefully developed and honed over the last 12 years as a paramedic and battalion chief and it’s a skill he plans to bring to his position as the newly elected Ward 2 councilor in Chaska.
Benesh ran uncontested for the Ward 2 seat being vacated by Taylor Hubbard as she ran a successful bid for mayor.
“I felt I could help people in some way,” he said. “Be a voice.”
Benesh is a relative newcomer to Chaska, relocating to the area from the north metro when he started dating his current wife, Kathleen.
“I like the area,” he said. “It does have a small town feel and there’s a lot to do out here.”
His decision to run for Chaska City Council surprised more than a few people in his life.
“I’ve always been interested in government,” he said. “I have a sense of wanting to serve.”
Benesh said he hopes to bring an open-minded, equitable approach to the council.
“I’m willing to listen to all sides,” he said. “That kind of entails what a paramedic does.”
While he anticipates a bit of a learning curve as he takes on this new position, Benesh said he isn’t afraid to ask questions along the way. His priorities revolve around equity and diversification.
“We are growing, and we need to focus on the infrastructure and city facilities,” he said. “Some of these buildings need help.”
Benesh understands that everyone, including his constituents, may not always agree with him.
“I have no issue with disagreements,” he said. “I welcome the opportunity to discuss issues, but I know you’re never going to make everyone happy.”
In his free time, Benesh loves to spend time with his blended family. He enjoys bowling and golf and participates in a competitive miniature golf league.
“I’m really excited to get to work,” he said. “I look forward to meeting people. I welcome it all.”
Note: Carver County Local News has also reached out to newly elected Ward 4 Councilor Leah Sheveland for an introductory profile, but Sheveland has not yet responded to requests for an interview.
