By Justin Miller

When I accepted the presidential gavel at last year’s League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference in Rochester, I focused my remarks on all that we have to be grateful for. As my year as president concludes, my proverbial “bucket” of gratitude is overflowing.

I must begin with how fortunate we are to live and work in a state that values good government. As a member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), I often hear from colleagues or read stories about completely dysfunctional governing bodies, unethical leaders, and unruly public meetings. While we certainly face our own challenges, the culture of “Minnesota nice” that threads through our local governing landscape is something that sets us apart — and offers a refreshing example for others across the country.

Welcomed across the state

I’m especially grateful for the hospitality our cities show when supporting League projects and initiatives. The absolute highlight of serving on the League’s executive committee has been traveling throughout the state to visit communities of all sizes.

In every visit, host cities proudly showcase their community’s unique strengths — whether it is a new ice arena, a revitalized downtown, an innovative infrastructure project, or a beloved community gathering. I always returned from these visits with new ideas to consider in my own city, and I hope our visits provided some reassurance that the League is a resource for all cities in Minnesota.

Honoring local leaders

I am thankful for the elected and appointed officials who step up to serve our cities.

Being an elected official is not for everyone, but our democracy cannot survive without people who are willing to knock on doors, attend meetings, and make the difficult decisions needed to strengthen our communities.

Alongside our elected officials, appointed staff have an equally tough job and work tirelessly every day for residents and businesses. Much of their work goes unnoticed and without fanfare, but it is essential to the success of our cities. Whether you are engaged in legislative advocacy, serving on League policy committees, or simply doing your job in city hall, your work is meaningful and commendable. To borrow from President Teddy Roosevelt, “The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena … ”

The power behind the scenes

The League would not be what it is today without the unparalleled work of League staff. I have had the pleasure of meeting representatives from other leagues across the country, and I can confidently state that our League staff is the best in the country. They are looked upon as leaders within their areas of expertise and play critical roles in nationwide policy arenas. I am amazed at their laser-focused dedication to cities. Getting to know them over the past few years has been something I will forever treasure.

Board service is rewarding

My fellow Board members — elected and appointed officials from across the state — have been a joy to serve with. The experience is what you make of it, and without a doubt each of them brought dedication, passion, and insight to the table and are devoted to representing our members.

If you ever have the opportunity to serve on the League Board, or in another volunteer capacity, I encourage you to say yes. The reward is worth the commitment.

A special thank-you

Finally, I want to express my deep appreciation to the Lakeville City Council and city staff. Their support of my service with the League — including my year as Board president — has been instrumental. Their encouragement and flexibility made it possible, and I am truly grateful.

A former mayor I worked with had a unique way of introducing himself at public events. Instead of simply saying his name and position, he would start by saying “I am Doug Anderson and I have the privilege of serving as Lakeville mayor.” I always thought this was a profound way of honoring the position and letting everyone know how honored he was to represent his city. I, too, have been honored to serve as League president over the past year, and it has been a privilege to work for all of you.

Justin Miller is LMC past president and Lakeville city administrator.