The National Association of Counties (NACo) announced this month that Washington County Commissioner Michelle Clasen, District 5, has been appointed to the association’s Community, Economic and Workforce Development Steering Committee.

“Being a member of this national steering team is a serious commitment that I’m ready to make,” said Commissioner Clasen. “I look forward to using my voice and insights to advocate for topics like affordable housing and workforce development that are vital for Washington County and so many other counties across the U.S.”

The Community, Economic and Workforce Development Steering Committee covers all matters of housing, community and economic development, public works, and workforce development including the creation of affordable housing, residential, commercial and industrial development, and building and housing codes.

NACo has 10 policy steering committees that cover a full array of domestic policy issues impacting county governments and our local communities. These committees meet throughout the year to review and make recommendations on public policy issues and legislation. The policy development process initiated by the steering committees is the foundation for the American County Platform, which drives NACo's advocacy work.

NACo is a nonprofit organization that advocates for county interests in federal policy, promotes good county practices, develops leadership skills, shares knowledge, saves resources, and helps the public understand county government.

Commissioner Clasen was elected to the District 5 commissioner seat in 2022. She is a high-energy and devoted public servant with more than 12 years of city government leadership experience, including working with Washington, Dakota, and Ramsey counties on state mandates, joint partnerships/collaborations, securing funding, and providing quality city/county operations and services. Commissioner Clasen is passionate about her community, climate action, mental health, workforce development, and clean water.