For Immediate Release
July 28, 2025
Contact: Alex Wildfang
651-259-1917
ahwildfang@flaherty-hood.com
CGMC recognizes city officials, legislators during 2025 Summer Conference
ST. PAUL—On July 24, the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities (CGMC) hosted a Legislative Awards dinner recognizing city officials and legislators for their advocacy and contributions to Greater Minnesota throughout the 2025 legislative session and their careers. The event was held in Bemidji as a part of the Coalition’s annual summer conference.
“This year, we have witnessed dedicated service at its finest,” said CGMC Executive Director Bradley Peterson. “These recipients have gone above and beyond to shed light on what our cities need to address the issues we are facing, demonstrating precisely what civic leadership looks like. Our Coalition is beyond grateful for each of these recipients’ willingness to go to bat for our Greater Minnesota communities.” Read on for a complete list of award recipients. Click here for a PDF version of this release.
Legislator of Distinction Award: Awarded to legislators who played key roles in the CGMC’s policy success or advancing CGMC priorities during the preceding session.
Representative Jeff Backer (R – Browns Valley)
As with last year, Rep. Backer was one of the key people in helping address the EMS challenges in Greater Minnesota. As the GOP Co-Chair for the House Health Finance and Policy Committee, he was instrumental in shepherding the EMS Operating Deficit Grant Program through the House. He was also a tenacious negotiator with the Senate to ensure its final inclusion in the state budget. [PHOTO]
Representative Dave Baker (R – Willmar)
In the tied House, Rep. Baker reached across the aisle to protect Greater Minnesota’s interests and resist cuts to important workforce and economic development programs. Rep. Baker also worked tirelessly to advance the conversation about making changes to some of the state’s employer mandates, to ensure flexibility and ease the burden on small employers, local governments, and others. [PHOTO]
Representative Robert Bierman (DFL – Apple Valley)
This year, Rep. Bierman was the DFL Co-Chair of the House Health Finance and Policy Committee. In that position, his support was crucial for the passage of CGMC-sponsored EMS legislation. We appreciate his efforts to bring bipartisan support and state-wide thinking to address this issue in Greater Minnesota and look forward to continuing to work with him to further strengthen ambulance services across the state.
Representative Greg Davids (R – Preston)
When the Senate proposed cuts to LGA this session, House Taxes Co-Chair Davids had a succinct message to CGMC staff: “over my dead body.” This year’s bipartisan work between the House GOP and House DFL provided the firewall needed to keep LGA whole during rocky times for the state budget. The CGMC celebrates Rep. Davids’ commitment to rural issues, as well the good humor and collaborative spirit he brings to the Capitol.
Representative Mary Franson (R – Alexandria)
As Co-Chair of the House Capital Investment Committee, Rep. Franson was steadfast in her support for a bonding bill throughout the legislative session. She was instrumental in increasing funding caps for water infrastructure programs—a top CGMC goal for the last several years—and ensuring that key priorities, including water infrastructure and transportation, were well funded.
Representative Luke Frederick (DFL – Mankato)
As Vice Co-Chair of the House Capital Investment Committee, Rep. Frederick was a vocal advocate for ensuring that cities of all sizes throughout Minnesota receive funding for their water projects. He worked hard to ensure that the needs of Greater Minnesota were understood and supported by his colleagues.
Representative Aisha Gomez (DFL – Minneapolis)
As House Taxes Co-Chair, Rep. Gomez has been an unwavering champion for LGA. She was key to resisting the proposed cuts to LGA this session and has made it a hallmark of her House service to resist any proposals that would reduce local aids, harm local budgets, or shift property tax burden onto local residents.
Senator Grant Hauschild (DFL – Hermantown)
In just his third session at the Capitol, Sen. Hauschild has made himself a central player in nearly every issue impacting Greater Minnesota. He has carried numerous pieces of legislation for the CGMC, including as a prominent champion of funding LGA, funding and reforming emergency medical services, and numerous other critical policies. [PHOTO]
Representative Mike Howard (DFL – Richfield)
During the 2025 session, Rep. Howard served as the Co-Chair of the House Housing Finance and Policy Committee and managed a tight fiscal environment with a steady hand and a commitment to the needs of Greater Minnesota. He ensured that the housing bill included key funding that will support Greater Minnesota’s housing needs and that housing policy changes will work in communities outside of the Twin Cities.
Representative Spencer Igo (R – Wabana Township)
Rep. Igo is a third term Republican and served as the Co-Chair of the House Housing Finance and Policy Committee. With a tight budget target, this session Rep. Igo fought for key housing investments in Greater Minnesota, including investing ongoing funding into the Greater Minnesota Housing Infrastructure grant program. Due to his efforts, increased funding will be available to support investments in Greater Minnesota housing needs. [PHOTO]
Senator John Jasinski (R – Faribault)
From the time he was elected in 2016, Sen. Jasinski has been one of the strongest supporters of Greater Minnesota economic development through the Business Development Public Infrastructure (BDPI) program. Without his advocacy, Greater Minnesota resources may have seen deep cuts this session. He has also used his position as the Minority Lead on the Transportation Committee to advocate for a range of rural transportation priorities. [PHOTO]
Representative Pete Johnson (DFL – Duluth)
As a first-term legislator, Rep. Johnson showed early interest and commitment in issues that impact all of Greater Minnesota. He took the lead on carrying a bill to fund the Greater Minnesota Business Development Public Infrastructure (BDPI) program, and worked closely with CGMC staff to advocate for a range of other issues. The CGMC looks forward to partnering with Rep. Johnson in future sessions. [PHOTO]
Senator Ann Johnson Stewart (DFL – Wayzata)
In her first year on the Capital Investment Committee, Sen. Johnson Stewart was a powerful force in pushing for passage of a bonding bill. As the chief author of the CGMC’s water infrastructure bill, she worked hard to understand the issues and advocate until the very end for water funding and policy changes. [PHOTO]
Representative Jon Koznick (R – Lakeville)
As Chair of the House Transportation Committee, Rep. Koznick was a champion in his efforts to minimize the unintended consequences of the greenhouse gas emissions law passed in 2023. The House passed a delay in the law, and he authored numerous changes. Rep. Koznick fought until the bitter end of session and won small concessions in a divided legislature despite fierce opposition. [PHOTO]
Representative Bjorn Olson (R – Fairmont)
Rep. Olson is one of the most able members of the House Transportation Committee and one of the strongest advocates for transportation in Greater Minnesota. He served as the point man on the House floor during debate on the transportation bill, offering his support for CGMC transportation priorities.
Senator Sandy Pappas (DFL – St. Paul)
Since taking over as Senate Capital Investment Chair, Sen. Pappas has been a strong advocate for meeting the needs of all Minnesotans, especially with respect to clean water and other crucial infrastructure. She doggedly pursued the passage of a bonding bill this year with significant amounts of funding for the Public Facilities Authority (PFA) along with important policy changes.
Representative Dave Pinto (DFL – St. Paul)
As Co-Chair of the Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Committee, Rep. Pinto worked across the aisle to put together a bill that resisted the Governor’s proposed cuts to key Greater Minnesota economic development programs, such as the Business Development Public Infrastructure program (BDPI), the Redevelopment Grant program, and others. Rep. Pinto has also been a key supporter of efforts to improve child care access and affordability in recent years. [PHOTO]
Representative Roger Skraba (R – Ely)
As a member of the House Capital Investment Committee, Rep. Skraba is consistently one of the House GOP’s most vocal advocates for the passage of a bonding bill. His good nature and ability to work across the aisle has helped him play a key role in advancing several Greater Minnesota priorities. He has also stepped up to carry various CGMC priority bills, such as a bill to provide TIF flexibility to Greater Minnesota cities. [PHOTO]
Representative Natalie Zeleznikar (R – Fredenberg Township)
Throughout her time in the legislature, Rep. Zeleznikar has been a leader on health and human services issues. This year, she took her compassionate approach to lawmaking and applied it as the House’s chief author of the CGMC-sponsored EMS bill. Her leadership on this issue was central to passing the bill this year. [PHOTO]
First-term Legislator of the Year: Awarded to a first-term legislator who has gone above and beyond in their advocacy on behalf of Greater Minnesota.
Senator Robert Kupec (DFL – Moorhead)
Still in his first term, Sen. Kupec has been a stand-out legislator for Greater Minnesota. In addition to his strong support for his district, he has enthusiastically carried several pieces of legislation related to making TIF more usable in Greater Minnesota. This year he also pushed a key amendment in committee that kept our Greater Minnesota EMS bill moving through the legislative process. Finally, he’s simply just a great joy to work with! [PHOTO]
Excellence in Service: Awarded to CGMC elected officials, city managers, administrators, and/or city staff who demonstrated knowledge, leadership, and active participation in CGMC program areas over the preceding session and/or an extended period of time.
Susan Arntz – City Manager (Mankato)
Over the last several years, Susan has played an essential role in the CGMC’s response to annexation, zoning, and land use legislation. She assisted at all hours and on weekends with analyzing proposals and testified on multiple bills in both the House and Senate. With her calm demeanor, she repeatedly helped make the case that our cities play an essential role in community development and zoning. [PHOTO]
Lisa Bode – Governmental Affairs Director (Moorhead)
As a long-time staff member in the City of Moorhead, Lisa has worn many hats for the CGMC—advocate, policy resource, board member, and treasurer. She is truly an unsung hero of the CGMC. This year, she was especially active in advising and helping our team think through issues related to housing. Her commitment and deep knowledge have been great assets to the organization. [PHOTO]
Steve King – Mayor (Austin)
Mayor King continues to have a strong impact on the CGMC and its work. This year, he brought his enthusiasm and can-do attitude to helping recruit new CGMC members. He never fails to bring a positive attitude and sense of optimism to every CGMC event, and his contributions to the organization are invaluable. [PHOTO]
Greg Kruschke – Community Development Planner (Owatonna)
Greg stepped forward during this session to support the CGMC’s efforts on zoning and land use issues. His analysis helped the CGMC shape the case for Greater Minnesota, and his testimony helped legislators understand the challenges our cities face. He is an excellent example of member participation. [PHOTO]
Angela Schumann – Community Development Director (Monticello)
Though relatively new to the CGMC, Angela jumped in with both feet to assist on a variety of issues, particularly land use and zoning. She worked with her city to provide thoughtful analysis of proposals and worked closely with the CGMC on legislative outreach and arranging testimony at the Capitol. [PHOTO]
Mike Warner – Fire Chief (Red Wing)
As Red Wing Fire Chief, Mike Warner shows up. This year, he was critical in the CGMC’s efforts to advance EMS legislation. Throughout the session, Chief Warner testified at committee hearings and provided CGMC staff with invaluable counsel. Having experts like Chief Warner willing to step up makes CGMC stronger! [PHOTO]
Jack Murray Award for Distinguished Rural Leadership: Awarded—upon their retirement from public service—to CGMC mayors and elected officials who have made special contributions to the CGMC over a multi-year career. The award is named after Jack Murray, former mayor of International Falls, who was instrumental in the CGMC’s formation.
Ron Johnson – Former Councilmember (Bemidji)
Ron Johnson served on the Bemidji City Council for 24 years and has been active in the CGMC for nearly that long. He first joined the Board in 2005 and served as President from 2018-2019. Ron has always been a strong supporter of Bemidji and cities throughout the state. His willingness to step up and offer his valuable support will be missed. [PHOTO]
Rick Miller – Former Mayor (Waite Park)
Few cities are as actively engaged in the CGMC as Waite Park, thanks in no small part to the enthusiastic leadership of former Mayor Rick Miller. During his decades of service, he has always made sure that Waite Park remains an engaged member. That support for our organization and mission was highly visible as he hosted our summer conference last year, capping off his many years of service to the city and the CGMC.
Calvin Saari – Former Mayor (Nashwauk)
As Mayor of Nashwauk, Cal Saari continued the tradition of strong advocacy from Iron Range elected officials. For the CGMC in particular, he was one of the driving forces in our early engagement on the EMS issue. His insight and Nashwauk’s experience with providing ambulance service in their area made a deep impression at the legislature. Cal’s impact will long outlive his time as mayor. [PHOTO]
Bob Filson Award for Distinguished Rural Leadership: Awarded—upon their retirement from public service—to CGMC city managers/administrators or key staff members who made special contributions to the CGMC over a multi-year career. The award is named after Bob Filson, former city manager of Worthington, who showed consistent and relentless dedication to whatever mattered to the CGMC and its members.
Kris Busse – City Administrator (Owatonna)
Kris is leaving the city of Owatonna, having been there since December of 2007. During that time, Kris has been a respected colleague and friend to all CGMC members. She has contributed much to the organization with her counsel and advocacy and is amongst the smartest and toughest in the business. The CGMC will greatly miss her presence in our organization. [PHOTO]
Kay Kuhlmann – Former Council Administrator (Red Wing)
Throughout her long tenure with the City of Red Wing, Kay has actively engaged with the CGMC. In addition to her frequent participation in countless CGMC activities and support for our legislative efforts, she also worked hard to empower others on her staff to actively participate in our organization. Her enthusiasm and participation will be missed.
Friend of the CGMC: Awarded to individuals or organizations who have helped advance CGMC priorities and/or made important contributions to Greater Minnesota.
Patricia Naumann – Executive Director (Metro Cities)
Lobbying at the legislature is a team sport. Often, the CGMC will partner with other organizations and their lobbyists on issues of common interest. This year, as cities faced significant threats to local control when it comes to zoning and housing policy, Patty was a key partner in the CGMC’s efforts. Through lots of strategy sessions and meetings, it was clear that Patty and Metro Cities were perfectly aligned with the CGMC and our members.
President’s Award – Awarded to the outgoing CGMC president.
Shelly Carlson – Mayor (Moorhead)
Mayor Carlson has made inclusion one of the hallmarks of her time as CGMC President. Whether through personal outreach to prospective members or participation on our first ever CGMC 101 webinar, she has made telling the CGMC story, what it has meant to Moorhead, and what it means for Greater Minnesota generally a central part of her service as President. Her willingness to jump in wherever needed and positive attitude has made working with Mayor Carlson a delight! [PHOTO]
The CGMC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing more than 100 cities outside the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The Coalition educates legislators about issues important to Greater Minnesota.
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