On the recordJuly 25, 2024
Mr. Speaker, a public servant, a veteran, a small business owner, and my friend, St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis is retiring after nearly 30 years in office. Dave found his passion for politics while serving in the Air Force and working as a congressional liaison at the Pentagon. He then represented the St. Cloud area in the State senate for 10 years, eventually becoming the Senate minority leader. Dave is a customer service representative. During his 20 years as mayor, he hosted over 1,000 townhalls, including multiple 24-hour marathon townhalls and frequently invited residents to his home for dinner. Dave has been an incredible partner working with us on hard infrastructure projects in the St. Cloud COP House. I thank Dave for his service to St. Cloud, Stearns County, and the State of Minnesota. Enjoy your retirement. ____________________
