As we enter a new year, I want to thank the Minnetonka community for giving me the opportunity to serve as your mayor for the past eight years. It has been an honor and a thrill to lead this city.  Thank you for trusting me and for enabling me to hold this office. I am humbled and appreciative.

Minnetonka is an outstanding city. I like to think I contributed to that. The truth is Minnetonka was outstanding long before I became mayor. The Minnetonka brand is strong for two powerful reasons. The first is good fortune due to our location. Being located on 28 square miles of spectacularly beautiful land, less than ten miles from the urban core, along the second most important lake in Minnesota (I love Lake Superior) makes Minnetonka distinctive. Second is the intentional commitment to excellence the city exhibits in its dealings with residents, businesses, employees, suppliers and visitors. 

I am proud of some of the accomplishments that occurred during my time as mayor. Our city grew stronger because of our strategic plan built on six strategic pillars, including community inclusiveness. Minnetonka is committed to being a welcoming and inclusive community. A diverse population makes us better.

I am proud of our community development initiatives that resulted in thousands of new housing units, of which roughly a third are affordable.

I am proud of Minnetonka's fire and police departments which leverage innovation to keep our city safe and do it in a way that respects our employees and keeps them mentally and physically healthy.

I am proud of our role as a regional leader and our commitment to mutual aid and to being a resource to neighboring communities.

I am proud of our acquisition of The Marsh and the commitment to physical and emotional well-being that it signifies.

I am proud of our ongoing commitment to natural resources and sustainability.

And, I am proud of the Minnetonka staff who are in the service delivery business. I think we do that exceedingly well. 

This is a people business and our residents, staff, city council, businesses, schools and faith community are all contributors to the excellence Minnetonka represents. This is a team game. No accomplishment happens in isolation. Working collaboratively with city council members, staff, and many others yields the excellence that is the Minnetonka brand. I am honored to have served with you all. I hope that I did it well.

Minnetonka will continue to be in my prayers. Happy new year and best wishes for a prosperous 2026!

Best regards,

Brad Wiersum
Mayor of Minnetonka