An East Metro leader who has been involved in local and state politics, transit planning and several area nonprofits will serve as the next chair of the Metropolitan Council.
Maplewood Mayor Nora Slawik will begin in her new role in January. Governor-elect Tim Walz and Lt. Governor-elect Peggy Flanagan announced the appointment on Dec. 18.
Slawik, 56, has served as Maplewood’s mayor since 2014. While in that role, she has helped lead planning efforts for two planned Bus Rapid Transit lines — the METRO Gold Line and the Rush Line. She is also a former member of the Council’s Transportation Advisory Board. As mayor she has led the city’s economic redevelopment to expand affordable and market-rate housing.
She previously served for seven terms in the Minnesota Legislature, representing portions of Ramsey and Washington counties.
Slawik has worked for a variety of nonprofits in the region, such as United Way and the Autism Society of Minnesota. She holds a Master of Public Affairs degree from the Humphrey School at the University of Minnesota and a Bachelor of Science degree in Parks and Recreation Management from Arizona State University.
“The single best way to position our region as a place where everyone can succeed is to make strategic and equitable investments in the foundational water, transportation, parks, and housing policy areas the Council is charged with advancing,” Slawik said in a statement. “I look forward to the opportunity to create and strengthen the work and partnerships that will position our region to prosper as a place where everyone can reach their full potential.”
Slawik will step down as mayor in January prior to being sworn in as Council Chair. Under state law, local elected officials cannot simultaneously serve on the Council. She succeeds Alene Tchourumoff, who served as Council Chair from August 2017 through November 2018.
Apply for a seat on the Council by Jan. 9
The Secretary of State will accept applications for Council members through Wednesday, Jan. 9. New Council board members will be appointed by the Governor following interviews with a nominating committee.