The chair of the Metropolitan Council is retiring.
Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced on Tuesday that Charlie Zelle will step down from his position with the Met Council on September 10.
“Chair Zelle’s years of public service have made a lasting impact on not only the Met Council but public transportation and infrastructure across Minnesota,” said Governor Walz. “His service has positioned the council and our state for continued success and innovation. I wish Chair Zelle all the best in his retirement, and I thank him for years of tireless work and public service.”
The former Commissioner of the Department of Transportation had served as chair of the Met Council since 2020, having previously served as chairman of Jefferson Lines, and holding the position of president and CEO for more than 20 years.
Plans for interim leadership for the Metropolitan Council will be determined over the coming months.
The Metropolitan Council is the regional policy-making body, planning agency, and provider of services in the seven-county Twin Cities metro area. They're in charge of Metro Transit's bus and rail system, Metro Mobility, Transit Link, wastewater treatment services, regional parks, planning, affordable housing, and more.
The 17 positions inside the Met Council are unelected and appointed by the governor. They are subject to Senate confirmation.