Khai Tran
for Carver County Commissioner, District 5
People First. Community Always.
Working together for what’s next.
For nearly two decades, I’ve worked alongside residents, nonprofits, businesses, schools, and local government to solve real problems in Carver County.
I’m not running to make politics louder.
I’m running to help county government work better by listening, bringing people together, and delivering practical results.
Because when we work together, our communities become stronger.
My Commitment
Leadership is about service, not sides.
Listen.
Before making decisions, I’ll listen to the people who live here – not just those who agree with me, but everyone.
Good leadership starts with understanding.
Connect.
The county doesn’t have all the answers.
Our cities, businesses, nonprofits, schools, and residents all have part of the solution.
My job is to bring those people together.
Deliver.
Government earns trust by keeping its promises.
I’ll focus on measurable results, responsible spending, and making sure good ideas become real improvements.
Why I’m Running
Good local government asks us to solve problems.
I’ve spent nearly twenty years helping neighbors solve challenges together.
Whether helping launch the Family Resource Center, connecting nonprofits through Project Lin-kij, or supporting local families through A Better Society, I’ve learned that lasting solutions happen when people trust one another enough to work together. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with people from different backgrounds, organizations, and viewpoints. I believe listening first, finding common ground, and focusing on results leads to better decisions.
That’s the kind of leadership I’ll bring to every decision on the County Board.
A Record
of Results
Founded A Better Society
Helping identify community needs, build partnerships, and create practical solutions since 2008.
Helped Launch the Carver County Family Resource Center
Bringing organizations together to better support children, families, and individuals throughout the county.
Built Strong Community Partnerships
Connecting government agencies, businesses, schools, nonprofits, and faith communities to address local challenges.
Project Life-Cycle
Helping provide thousands of bicycles to local families to create opportunities for transportation, recreation, and connection.
Project Lin-kij
Building one of Carver County’s strongest networks of nonprofit and community collaboration.
Priorities
Stronger Communities
Supporting families, seniors, veterans, and neighbors through partnerships that help people thrive.
Fiscal Responsibility
Respecting taxpayers by ensuring county government remains transparent, accountable, and efficient.
Responsible Growth
Planning thoughtfully for the future while preserving the qualities that make our communities special.
Public Safety
Supporting law enforcement, emergency responders, and county services that help keep our communities safe.
Collaboration
Building stronger partnerships between county government, cities, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and residents.
Where is District 5?
District 5 is made up of these cities:
Carver, Cologne, Hamburg, New Germany, Norwood Young America,
and these townships:
Benton, Camden, Dahlgren, Hancock, San Francisco, Young America
Local Decisions. Real Impact.
County commissioners make decisions that affect everyday life.
Roads & Infrastructure
Maintaining roads, bridges, and transportation networks.
Public Safety
Supporting first responders, emergency services, and community safety.
Health & Human Services
Funding programs that support families, seniors, and mental health.
Parks & Environment
Protecting parks, trails, lakes, and natural resources.
Budget
& Taxes
Setting the county budget and being good stewards of taxpayer dollars.
Economic Development
Encouraging jobs, supporting local businesses, and planning for responsible growth.
Meet Khai
I believe the best communities are built when people listen to one another, work together, and focus on solving problems.
In 1975, my family fled Vietnam and came to the United States as refugees. We arrived with very little, but were welcomed by people who gave us the opportunity to build a new life. That experience taught me the value of community, service, and giving back.
My wife, Heather, and I have been married for 29 years after meeting in college. We moved to Chanhassen in 2000, where we raised our three children and proudly called Carver County home for more than 25 years. Today, we live in Cologne and remain deeply invested in the future of our county and its communities.
Professionally, I’ve spent more than 30 years helping businesses solve problems, build partnerships, and navigate change. Since founding A Better Society in 2008, much of my work has focused on strengthening communities, connecting resources, and helping people succeed.
Carver County has given so much to my family over the past 25 years. Serving as your County Commissioner is my opportunity to give back and help ensure it remains a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family for generations to come.
Join Us
This campaign is about people, community, and working together for what’s next.
Join us as we build an even stronger Carver County.