Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of Craig J. Peterson to fill an unscheduled vacancy on the Metropolitan Council in District 4. The vacancy occurred with the resignation of Brian Lundquist on July 31. District 4 includes all of Carver and Scott Counties, and the Hennepin County cities of Minnetrista and St. Bonifacius.

Peterson, a licensed real estate broker, is the principal consultant with Marathon Enterprises, Inc., a business specializing in real estate and general management services to small and mid-sized companies. Previously, he held a number of positions for 23 years with Gelco Information Network, Inc., culminating as vice president of administration. Peterson earned his masters degree in business administration summa cum laude from Mankato State University, and his bachelor of arts degree in business administration from Southwest State University in Marshall.

Peterson has been a member of the Chanhassen City Council since 2000, and also serves on the Chanhassen Economic Development Authority. He chairs the Southwest Transit Commission, is a member of the Metropolitan Council Transportation Advisory Board, and previously was a member of the Chanhassen Planning Commission, where he served as chair for four years. He chairs the board of directors of Wilderness Inquiry, a non-profit organization dedicated to sharing the outdoors with others; is an instrument rated pilot; and participates in wheelchair athletics. Peterson, 50, lives in Chanhassen with his wife, Ellie.

Seventeen people applied for the position. The Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee conducted a public hearing for the position last month. Three applicants withdrew their application prior to the public hearing. Twelve applicants gave a presentation at the hearing. The Nominating Committee recommended two finalists to the Governor. The finalists were Lee Bernick and Craig Peterson.

The Metropolitan Council coordinates planning and development in the seven county metropolitan area and directly operates several regional services. The Metropolitan Council consists of 16 metropolitan citizens appointed from geographically defined districts in the seven county metropolitan area and a chair. All 17 members are appointed by the Governor to four-year terms that are co-terminus with the Governor.