There are new leaders for Minnesota's Metropolitan Council and Fire Marshal's office.
Former MnDOT Commissioner Charlie Zelle was appointed Monday by Governor Walz to take the reins of the Met Council, the Twin Cities' regional transit agency, starting in January.
"The Council serves the critical function of bringing Twin Cities leaders together to invest in infrastructure and build an equitable economy," said Zelle in a statement. "I am committed to applying my private and public sector experiences to help achieve the vision of a prosperous region — for everyone."
Nora Slawik resigned last month, citing health problems "caused by the stress of the position."
The Met Council also oversees strategic land use planning.
It employs about 4,000 people and has an annual budget of more than $1 billion.
Zelle's hiring comes the same day Jim Smith was selected to replace Bruce West as Minnesota State Fire Marhsal.
The announcement was made by public safety commissioner John Harrington.
Smith has been Minnesota's Chief Deputy Fire Marshal since 2014, and prior to that, he was an assistant chief for the St. Paul Fire Department.
West has been appointed as Assistant Commissioner of the Department Public Safety, and will oversee the State Fire Marshal's Office as well as other offices.
The Met Council also oversees strategic land use planning.
It employs about 4,000 people and has an annual budget of more than $1 billion.