Slavik Presides Over Final Meeting as Plymouth Mayor
On Dec. 11, the Plymouth Rockers senior choir used their voices to bring the Christmas spirit to the Plymouth City Council Chambers.
“They are wonderful, and we really appreciate all they do in the community,” Plymouth Mayor Kelli Slavik said to the group.
The choir’s appearance was a special treat for a special meeting. After conducting business in the council chambers for the past 20 years, this was the last hurrah for Mayor Slavik.
“After 20 years, it’s very difficult,” Slavik said in an interview. “This is like a second home to me. The staff are like family. I adore working with them. We have a great city council.”
“Forever Grateful”
Back in January of 1999, a young Kelli Slavik was sworn in as a city council member.
Seven years later, she ran for the mayor’s office against two other candidates. Plymouth voters elected her by an overwhelming margin.
“They gave me the opportunity to learn more and to engage and to really be a big part of this community,” Slavik said of Plymouth voters. “I’m forever grateful for that.”
From a Third Lane to a Vets Memorial
Twelve years later, Slavik has a long list of accomplishments to add to her resume. She played a big role in getting a third lane added onto the Plymouth stretch of Interstate 494.
She helped oversee steady residential and business growth in the city. And she persuaded the council to build the Plymouth Veterans Memorial near city hall.
“It’s something that’s very near and dear to my heart,” Slavik said of the memorial. “My father-in-law’s name is on there, and I really think it’s a great way to honor members of our community that have served.”
Meanwhile, at Slavik’s final council meeting as mayor Dec. 11, the Plymouth Rockers took the opportunity to honor her with a rendition of “For She’s a Jolly Good Mayor.”
Her fellow council members also issued an official proclamation, declaring Dec. 12, 2018 as ‘Mayor Kelli Slavik Day’ in the city of Plymouth. A fitting tribute for 20 years of public service.
“I know our community’s in great hands, and will continue to prosper,” Slavik said. “I’m just going to miss the people.”
As for what’s next, Slavik said she plans to stay in Plymouth and do more traveling, but her role in government may not be over just yet. She said she’s considering a run for Hennepin County Commissioner in 2020.
