WOODBURY, MN (WNN) – The League of Minnesota Cities named Woodbury Mayor Anne Burt as the recipient of the 2025 Emerging Leader Award at its annual conference in Duluth yesterday.
Burt has shown “a deep commitment to public service,” the organization states in a news release. Burt was elected mayor in 2020 and before that had served on the city’s Parks & Natural Resources Commission, Planning Commission, and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Task Force.
The League says Burt guided Woodbury through several challenges including the discovery of PFAS, the forever chemicals, in the city’s water supply and the COVID-19 pandemic. “Burt’s background in chemistry and prior experience in the water treatment industry have been invaluable in addressing the PFAS crisis,” the release states. “Under her leadership, the city is constructing a $330 million water treatment plant to ensure clean and safe drinking water for current and future generations.”
The League also pointed to her community engagement efforts and support of local business and non-profit organizations.
“Mayor Anne Burt exemplifies this rare combination of dedication, vision, and selfless service,” Edina Mayor James Hovland said in a letter of support. “Her leadership has been marked by humility, integrity, and a focus on collective impact. She elevates others, listens carefully, and guides with clarity—always keeping the broader community impact at heart.”
Burt serves as vice chair of the Regional Council of Mayors. She also serves on the boards of the Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA Coalition for Race and Equity, and the Woodbury Lions Club.
“Simply put, in times of challenges and celebrations, obstacles and opportunities, Mayor Burt’s leadership has never wavered,” stated the Woodbury City Council in its letter of support. “Her continued commitment to the community in seeking equitable policy solutions has advanced Woodbury’s profile as a welcoming and vibrant community.”
In a statement to WNN, Burt said: “I am honored and humbled to receive this award. My mission in my role as mayor has always been to build a strong community, combining the efforts of city government with businesses, education, nonprofit organizations, faith community, and other government partners. This recognition inspires me to continue serving with humility and dedication, amplifying the voices of our residents and building a stronger future.”
The League’s Emerging Leader Award is presented in recognition of officials who have served for eight years or less and have “made meaningful contributions to their city, and show promise for continuing service and leadership.”
The League of Minnesota Cities is a membership organization that serves over 830 member cities.
