The National Association of Counties (NACo) announced last week that Washington County Commissioner Stan Karwoski, District 2, has been appointed to three of the association’s committees. These appointments are:
•Environment, Energy and Land Use Steering Committee (Air Quality Subcommittee) as Subcommittee Vice Chair.
•Membership Standing Committee.
•Rural Action Caucus (RAC).
NACo President James Gore stated that Commissioner Karwoski was chosen because of his dedication to NACo. He mentioned that his active participation and leadership help NACo represent America's counties effectively.
“I am excited to take on these new roles and to collaborate with my peers from across the country,” said Commissioner Karwoski. “Together, we can address the challenges facing our counties, from air quality to rural economic development, and work towards innovative solutions that benefit our communities.”
Environment, Energy & Land Use Policy Steering Committee works on all matters pertaining to air, water, energy, and land use. The association 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.
The Membership Standing Committee advises and supports NACo’s membership recruitment and retention efforts while championing county engagement in NACo.
The Rural Action Caucus (RAC) represents rural counties in discussions with Congress and the White House. Since 1997, it has been addressing important issues for nearly the 70% of America's counties that are rural.
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 Karwoski was first elected to the District 2 seat on the County Board in a special election in November 2016. He was reelected in 2018 and 2022 and is serving as Board Chair in 2024. Commissioner Karwoski was serving his fourth term on the Oakdale City Council when he was elected mayor in 2014. He is active in many civic organizations such as the Oakdale, Woodbury, and St. Paul Chambers, and the St. Paul Winter Carnival. He is past president and former member of the (independent school district) 622 Education Foundation. He is past chairman and former member of the Washington County Park and Open Space Commission. He has served with the Yellow Ribbon Network. Also, he served on the city of Oakdale’s planning and park commissions.