Mike Laven Named Chair of Region Nine Development Commission

Mankato, MN- Region Nine Development Commission (RNDC) named Mike Laven as the Board of Directors Chair. He has served on the commission since 2019 and takes over for Steve Rohlfing whose term ended this year.

Laven has served Blue Earth County for over 20 years as an elected official and a volunteer. He was first elected to the Mankato City Council in 2000 serving until 2012. Community members convinced Laven to run again in 2016. He was reelected that year and continues to serve on the council.

Laven is also active in the community as a volunteer. He spends much of his free time working with The Connections Shelter, Holy Grounds, and PrideFest.

“South Central Minnesota has a wealth of leadership across each of the cities, counties, townships, and school boards that are committed to collaborating on what is best for all. I appreciate the opportunity to serve as chair of the board and working with these leaders and the incredibly talented staff of Region Nine,” said Laven.

“Mike has always been very supportive of the team. He understands the vision of RNDC and that a strong regional economy is based on mutually beneficial partnerships,” said Region Nine Executive Director, Nicole Griensewic.