Public Affairs Series: Duluth?s Legacy Problems? Own It, Solve It

Event Description: Mayor Don Ness will share how the City of Duluth’s guiding principles, “Own it. Solve it.,” have transformed Duluth city government. The motto represents a shift in tone and an organization-wide culture of ownership. Mayor Don Ness’s staff has taken on issues from retiree healthcare to potholes with this philosophy. The freedom to own challenges and approach them with an eye toward resolution has fed organizational progress and growth that has translated into a community success story. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear how this philosophy has lead the Duluth city government to success.

Don Ness was elected Mayor in 2007 from a field of 12 candidates. Four years later, Ness became the first Mayor to run unopposed since Duluth was incorporated in 1887. Duluth was recognized by leaders in Public Policy as the "2013 Local Government of the Year", while Ness was named the "2013 Person of the Year". The 2015 National Citizen Survey showed that residents of Duluth gave Mayor Ness a 91% job approval rating. Ness has announced he will not seek another term as Mayor, and will leave office on January 4, 2016. Don and his wife Laura have three children, Eleanor, James and Owen. They live in the Hillside neighborhood of Duluth.

Cancellations must be received three days in advance of an event to receive a full refund. Otherwise, substitutions can be made.

Directions:
The event will be held in the Kay Fredericks Room on the third floor of the Klas Center (on Taylor Avenue). Please park in Lot B. You will not need a permit to park in this lot, however please be sure you do not park in a designated reserved spot. You may also park in the ramp attached to the Anderson Center, although there is a cost.