About the Metropolitan Council

Fostering a prosperous region

The Council's mission is to foster efficient and economic growth for a prosperous metropolitan region.

Our priorities

Create a financially sustainable 21st century transportation system
Promote dynamic housing opportunities for all
Leverage investments that drive regional economic development

Supporting the region's economic vitality

Our planning and services are the backbone of regional economic vitality. The Council:

Operates Metro Transit, which carried 81 million bus and rail passengers in 2012, and wins awards for innovation and energy efficiency
Makes strategic investments in a growing network of bus and rail transitways, and transit-oriented development
Collects and treats wastewater at rates 45% lower than peer regions, regularly winning state and national awards for environmental achievements
Partners with communities and the public in planning for future growth
Plans and funds acquisition and development of a world-class regional parks and trails system
Provides affordable housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals and families

Authority and governance

The Minnesota Legislature created the Council in 1967 to coordinate the orderly growth of the seven-county metro area, and to achieve goals too big for any one community, but possible to accomplish as a region. The Council’s 17-member governing board is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the governor. Council members and districts.