Honoring Service and Leadership: League Board Recognizes Outgoing Members

At its May 8 meeting, the League of Minnesota Cities Board of Directors honored five dedicated leaders whose terms will conclude in June 2025. Among them is Past President Jenny Max, whose leadership helped steer the League through pivotal moments in recent years.

As these individuals prepare to step away from their formal Board roles, they leave behind a legacy of service, advocacy, and a deep commitment to the cities of Minnesota. Current Board President Justin Miller will assume Max’s seat as Past President following the end of her term.

The League is deeply grateful for the time, energy, and insight these outgoing members have contributed to advancing Minnesota’s cities.

Audrey Nelsen – Council Member, City of Willmar

Audrey Nelsen joined the Board in November 2022. During her tenure, she served one year on the Finance Committee and two years on the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust Board, where she will continue to serve. Known for her thoughtful contributions, Audrey played a key role in strengthening the League’s relationship with the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities (CGMC) and was a valued voice during Board discussions.

Larry Odebrecht – Council Member, City of Stillwater

Since joining the Board in June 2022, Larry Odebrecht has proudly represented Stillwater, frequently sharing the city’s innovative projects and how they could inspire others. His enthusiasm for collaboration and local innovation left a positive mark on his colleagues.

“Larry was always quick to point out innovative projects Stillwater has implemented and how other cities could potentially benefit from similar projects,” Miller said.

Clinton Rogers – City Administrator, City of Janesville

Clinton Rogers has served on the Board since 2021, completing two two-year terms—first filling Jenny Max’s unexpired term and later Wendy Berry’s. Throughout his four years, Clinton was known for his eagerness to engage in Board efforts and his passionate support of the League’s mission.

“We have been very fortunate to have Clinton serve on the board as a director for four years,” Miller said. “This doesn’t happen too often.”

He also brought a personal touch to meetings, sharing “meat treats” from his local meat locker!

Dan Buchholtz – City Administrator, City of Spring Lake Park

Dan Buchholtz joined the Board in June 2024 as the Metro Cities representative. During the 2025 legislative session, he played a key role in advocating against housing and zoning preemption, building connections with lawmakers, and reinforcing the League’s relationship with Metro Cities.

Jenny Max – Past President, League Board of Directors; Outgoing City Administrator of Nisswa; Incoming City Administrator of Champlin

Jenny Max has served on the League Board since 2020. After a year as a director, she was appointed Second Vice President in 2021 and eventually served as Board President. Jenny’s leadership was marked by action and advocacy—she helped guide the organization through the pandemic, supported the transition to a new executive director, represented Minnesota cities in Washington, D.C., and advocated for critical issues like local sales taxes and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) support for first responders.

“Jenny truly believes in the support the League provides to cities across the state and brought first-hand experience on key legislative issues,” Miller said.