Little Falls Mayor Greg Zylka was recently elected to serve as president of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities at the Coalition’s annual membership meeting, which was virtual this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As president, Zylka will help direct efforts to inform state legislators on issues unique to Greater Minnesota, such as local government aid, economic development, transportation and environmental policy.
Zylka was elected by fellow city officials from across the state to lead the coalition, long considered one of the most active, high-profile organizations to represent rural communities at the state Capitol, according to the news release.
“Greg is a pragmatic and thoughtful leader who has the unique ability to bring people together,” stated Bradley Peterson, executive director of the coalition, in the release. “As our organization looks to the future, I’m confident that Greg will help guide us in the right direction.”
Willmar City Council member Audrey Nelsen, whom Zylka is replacing as president, echoed Peterson’s comments.
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“In working with Greg through the CGMC over the past few years, I have seen his dedication to serving his community and other communities across Minnesota,” Nelsen said. “Not only does he have a keen understanding of the issues facing rural cities, but he also demonstrates the passion and commitment needed to lead our cities through this tumultuous time.”
Zylka, who has served on the coalition board of directors since 2015, said he is eager to take on the many challenges on the horizon for greater Minnesota cities, including continuing to push through the pandemic and subsequent economic upheaval. He noted among the coalition's top priorities for the upcoming year will be to protect and defend local government aid and to continue to advocate for a robust bonding bill that creates jobs and invests in critical greater Minnesota projects and programs.
“I am honored to have been given the opportunity to lead the CGMC during this unprecedented time for greater Minnesota and the entire state,” Zylka said in the news release. “There is no doubt that we will have our work cut out for us in the months ahead, but I look forward to working closely with state legislators and other city leaders to face our challenges head-on and to continue to improve and strengthen our communities.”
