For Immediate Release – January 4, 2023
Hermantown Swears in New City Councilors
Hauschild’s state senate win leads to vacancy
Hermantown, Minn. – The Hermantown City Council opened the new year Tuesday with two new members, as recently-elected Andy Hjelle and Brian LeBlanc were given the Oath of Office.
LeBlanc received more than 2,200 votes in last November’s election, while Hjelle garnered more than 1,800. The duo replaced Gloria Nelson, who chose not to run in the last election, and Natalie Peterson, who resigned in late 2022 as part of her moving out of Hermantown.
“It is always exciting to have new councilors bringing their leadership and new perspectives to the City’s team,” said John Mulder, City Administrator. “We have a great depth and breadth of opportunity in Hermantown right now, so Brian and Andy will be crucial in helping guide our community’s next steps.”
As the new pair joined the council, Grant Hauschild’s expected resignation became official this week. Hauschild, who had served on Hermantown’s City Council since 2020, won the region’s state senate seat in the November election and began his first term in St. Paul.
“In a short time, Grant made a big impact as a member of the City Council,” said Mulder. “We have no doubt that will continue to be the case as he represents Hermantown and the surrounding area as a strong and dynamic state senator.”
The remainder of Hauschild’s term, which runs through the end of 2024, will be filled through an appointment by Hermantown’s current City Council following an application process. Individuals interested in serving need to be at least 21 years of age and have resided in Hermantown at least 30 days prior to their appointment. Applications can be found at www.hermantownmn.com/citycouncil or by visiting the Governmental Services Building at 5105 Maple Grove Road in Hermantown. Applications must be returned to the Governmental Services Building by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, January 23.
New City Councilors Andy Hjelle (left) and Brian LeBlanc as they take their Oath of Office Tuesday, January 3.
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For more information, contact: Joe Wicklund, Communications & Community Engagement Director, City of Hermantown, at [email protected] or 218.729.3614.