What would you do if you were the Mayor of Cottage Grove? Future leaders and role models residing in Cottage Grove, ages 8-12, are invited to share their vision of the future for Cottage Grove in an essay and win a chance to be “Mayor for a Day.”

According to the City of Cottage Grove, as honorary Mayor, the winner will get the chance to be picked up from their school by Police Chief Pete Koerner in a squad car, check out the fire and police stations, have pizza and ask questions with Mayor Myron Bailey, tour city offices, ride on a Zamboni and more. The winner will even get to meet the Cottage Grove City Council and be presented with an official certificate. One or both of your parents are invited to be present during all activities.

If you’re interested in holding the keys to the city, they want to hear from you. To enter the contest, write a short essay, 250 words or less, explaining why you would like to be “Mayor for a Day” and what your vision is for the future of Cottage Grove. Essays must be received by Oct. 15.

Last year’s winner, Mackenzie Delaney, focused her essay on park accessibility and maintenance, language inclusivity, and making sure “Cottage Grove continues to be a community where everyone is welcome and is a fun place to live.” Her essay was chosen from nearly 40 contest entries.

Please email a handwritten essay either by photograph, scan or PDF attachment and include your name, age, grade and what school you attend. Essays can be emailed to communications@cottagegrovemn.gov. For more information on how to enter go to https://cottagegrovemn.gov/mayorforaday.