Back to the July-August-2025 issue

The League Thanks Outgoing Board Members

The following members of the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) Board of Directors recently completed their Board terms. The League thanks them for their service.

Dan BuchholtzDan Buchholtz
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
CITY OF SPRING LAKE PARK
METRO CITIES REPRESENTATIVE

It has been a real privilege to serve as the Metro Cities representative on the LMC Board. I’ve learned a lot from the conversations around the table and gained a better understanding of the wide range of issues cities across Minnesota are facing. The Board does important work advocating for local control and supporting cities of all sizes, and I’m proud to have been a part of that. I’ve especially appreciated the chance to work alongside such dedicated and thoughtful city leaders. The relationships built and the shared commitment to strengthening our communities made this experience incredibly rewarding.

Phil KernPhil Kern
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
CITY OF DELANO

Serving on the Board has been a meaningful experience for me. I’ve come to truly appreciate the creativity, strategic thinking, and deep commitment that the League staff brings to supporting Minnesota’s cities. No matter a city’s size or location, the League shows up with thoughtfulness and purpose. I’ve seen firsthand how dedicated the team is to helping communities thrive, and that’s left a lasting impression on me. I’m grateful for the relationships built, the perspectives gained, and the chance to be part of something that makes a real difference across our state.

Audrey NelsenAudrey Nelsen
COUNCIL MEMBER
CITY OF WILLMAR

I want to thank the League of Minnesota Cities for the opportunity to serve on the Board over the past three years. I previously served as a representative of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities and have appreciated the League’s collaboration with other governmental organizations. The League and the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust provide valuable services to cities across the state and are highly respected by other state leagues nationwide.

As a Willmar City Council member, it has been helpful to learn about cities across Minnesota, the importance of good governance, and the value of being engaged at all levels of government. The League has a strong presence at the State Capital and works on behalf of all cities. League staff are knowledgeable and creative in helping cities address challenges and providing training to strengthen local leadership.

I plan to stay connected with the League and encourage city elected leaders and staff to get involved. Getting to know other city elected leaders, city staff, and League staff has truly been one of the greatest rewards!

Larry OdebrechtLarry Odebrecht
COUNCIL MEMBER
CITY OF STILLWATER

Serving on the League Board deepened my appreciation for the policymaking process and the value of thoughtful governance. I especially valued the League’s consistent commitment to preserving local control and driving decision-making authority down to the city level. In a time when that principle is too often overlooked, the League’s work is essential. I leave grateful for the relationships formed and for the opportunity to represent Stillwater in discussions that shaped legislative priorities and strengthened intergovernmental collaboration across Minnesota.

Clinton RogersClinton Rogers
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
CITY OF JANESVILLE

It has certainly been an honor and a privilege to serve on the League’s Board of Directors. I have enjoyed working with staff and fellow Board members as the League continues to guide cities across Minnesota. The League has excellent staff with expertise in so many areas of local government and is led by some of the most top-notch public administrators out there.

While on the Board, I learned more about what the organization does for all of us, and feel that cities in Minnesota are fortunate to have one of the best Leagues in the U.S. One important takeaway for me has been learning about how closely the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust works with the League itself; their interconnectedness and collaboration benefit all members. I am very proud to have served on the Board. Best of luck to everyone out there!