Dakota County has a new leader at the helm of its Board of Commissioners. On January 7, Commissioner Mike Slavik was elected to serve as chair for the upcoming year. The decision, made by his fellow commissioners, puts Slavik in a position to guide the county through what he promises will be another transformative period.
Slavik represents District 1, a constituency that spans a diverse range of cities and townships, from Coates to Northfield Precinct 2. His tenure on the board has been notable, with prior stints as chair in 2017, and 2020, years marked by significant challenges and change, including a shake-up in state transportation funding and navigating the county’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, respectively.
In his vision for 2025, Slavik emphasizes a collaborative approach, intending to strengthen ties with "state and federal lawmakers, local governments, businesses and others." According to a statement from the Dakota County news release, he asserted, “It is through our partnerships that we will continue to do what we are known for — providing excellent services in a way that benefit both our residents and customers as well as our taxpayers."
Collaboration seems to be the keyword for Slavik’s tenure, with projects underway that include the Crisis and Recovery Center in West St. Paul, initiatives to address public safety concerns like the fentanyl crisis, and shared efforts with Scott County for the Recycling Zone Plus facility. Slavik also points to the importance of partnership in improving infrastructures such as the Interstate 35 and County Road 50 interchange in Lakeville.
Commissioner Laurie Halverson will assume the role of vice chair and chair of the Community Services Committee of the Whole. Other board leadership roles for 2025 were outlined, with Commissioner Liz Workman heading the General Government and Policy Committee, Commissioner Mary Liz Holberg leading the Physical Development Committee of the Whole, and Commissioner Mary Hamann-Roland as the Regional Railroad Authority chair.
Beyond Dakota County, Slavik is also taking a broader role in shaping policy across Minnesota as the president of the Association of Minnesota Counties. In this position, he’s set to champion the mantra of stronger collaborative networks among local governments statewide. "Our residents and taxpayers are better off when we're working together," Slavik told the Dakota County News.
