With a nearly three-decades-long career in local government, Matt Staehling takes on a new venture as Duluth's latest City Administrator. Announced by Mayor Roger J. Reinert, Staehlings's appointment followed a widespread search showcasing his seasoned municipal administration expertise. According to a social media post from the City of Duluth, MN Government, the selection process, framed by a revamped job description, ensued throughout the upper Midwest.
During the hiring process, which included a robust examination of candidates, Staehling emerged as the leading choice. "I'm excited to welcome Matt to the City of Duluth team," Mayor Reinert said in a statement obtained by the City of Duluth, MN Government. Citing his previous roles, which range from City Attorney to City Administrator, Reinert expressed confidence in Staehling's ability to guide with a collaborative spirit. With experience drawn from his time serving significantly in a regional center, Staehling's role is well anticipated to bring a profound impact not only to the City of Duluth organization but also to the community at large.
Before his new role, Staehling was at the helm of the City of Saint Cloud as its City Administrator since 2016. His service in the city's legal department predates to his earlier roles as City Attorney and Assistant City Attorney. Staehling's educational background, comprising a bachelor's degree from Augsburg University followed by a Juris Doctor from Valparaiso University Law School, backed his professional journey that began in 1996. His tenure in Saint Cloud earned him the praise of Mayor Dave Kleis, who is set to retire after a storied 20-year career. "Duluth is really gaining a tremendous asset in Matt," Kleis remarked, echoing forth the extensive history of collaboration shared between the two during Kleis' mayorship.
Matt Staehling's assumption of position will coincide with the departure of current City Administrator Dave Montgomery in February. Montgomery, aiding the transition after a return stint requested by Mayor Reinert in 2024, will conclude over a decade of service under three mayors. "I've really enjoyed the opportunity to serve my community again," Montgomery expressed, valuing the multifaceted responsibilities that come with the administrator role, and recognizing Staehling as an adept successor for the varied leadership demands.
In addition to his municipal career, Staehling's dedication also extends to his military service—a commissioned First Lieutenant in the Minnesota Army National Guard, he supported operations in Bosnia-Herzegovina and held various legal roles within the National Guard. Staehling's life off-duty is shared with his wife Jadi, their high school-aged son Jacob, three dogs, and three adult children.
