[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the retirement of Charlie Zelle, Chair of the Metropolitan Council. Zelle will depart from his position on September 10, 2025.

“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.”

“Chair Zelle’s outstanding service as chair of the Met Council will benefit the state for years to come. His compassionate approach and genuine care fostered growth and innovation, forged partnerships, and made a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “I thank Chair Zelle for his visionary leadership and wish him a wonderful retirement.”

Since his appointment as chair of the Metropolitan Council in 2020, Zelle has been the driving force behind achievements that have strengthened and expanded the council’s reach. Key among his accomplishments include approval of Imagine 2050, the Metropolitan Council’s deployment guide; funding and scheduling for the Green Line expansion; securing the largest investment in transit infrastructure through legislative action; and securing funding for regional park investments.

About Charlie Zelle
Charlie Zelle was appointed chair of the Metropolitan Council in January 2020. Prior to his appointment, he served as chairman of Jefferson Lines and held the position of president and CEO for more than 20 years. In 2012, he was appointed commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Transportation. In that capacity, he oversaw a multimodal state transportation agency with an annual budget of more than $4 billion.

Zelle has been recognized for his work in transportation policy as a recipient of the George Rucker Award by the Community Transportation Association in 2009 and the Ray L. Lappegaard Distinguished Service Award by Center of Transportation Studies in 2012. Born and raised in Saint Paul, Zelle received a B.A. from Bates College and an MBA from the Yale School of Management.

Plans for Interim leadership for the Metropolitan Council will be determined over the coming months. The Council is committed to maintaining operational continuity and will provide updates as decisions are finalized.