Woodbury Mayor Anne Burt Honored with 2025 LMC Emerging Leader Award
Woodbury Mayor Anne Burt was named the 2025 Emerging Leader Award recipient by the League of Minnesota Cities on Thursday. The award was announced at the League’s Annual Conference in Duluth.
Burt was elected mayor of Woodbury in 2020 and brought with her a deep commitment to public service and a strong background in community planning and environmental science. Prior to being elected mayor, she served on the city’s Parks & Natural Resources Commission, Planning Commission, and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Task Force.
As mayor, Burt has guided the city through several unprecedented challenges, including PFAS contamination of the city’s water supply, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the civil unrest that followed the murder of George Floyd. Her leadership helped maintain strong community trust—95% of residents rate Woodbury as a good or excellent place to live, and the city council has an 85% approval rating.
Burt’s background in chemistry and prior experience in the water treatment industry have been invaluable in addressing the PFAS crisis. 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.
In addition to her leadership on environmental issues, Burt has advanced the city’s community engagement efforts by integrating best practices from the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) framework. She has also been a visible and enthusiastic supporter of local businesses and non-profits, often participating in ribbon cuttings and community events.
“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 and actively contributes to regional conversations on issues such as housing, climate, and public safety. 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.”
The League’s Emerging Leader Award is presented in recognition and encouragement of elected and appointed officials who are early in their service to municipal government, have made meaningful contributions to their city, and show promise for continuing service and leadership. Officials who have served for eight years or less are eligible for consideration for the award.
The League of Minnesota Cities is a membership organization dedicated to helping cities throughout Minnesota build quality communities through effective advocacy, expert analysis, trusted guidance, and collective action. The League serves over 830 member cities through advocacy, education and training, policy development, risk management, and other services.
