Waite Park Considers Extending Mayoral Term Length to Four Years

(KNSI) – The Waite Park City Council is considering a measure that would double the mayor’s term in office from two years to four.

It would put council members and the mayor on even footing. Council members are elected on staggered terms for four years. The proposal was initially made by current Mayor Ken Schmitt earlier this year. If approved, the change would go into effect for the 2026 election. Schmitt has told KNSI News the move would allow for himself, and those that follow him in the role, to meet the community while doing official duties rather than just campaigning.

A 2016 study showed that among Minnesota cities that are Waite Park’s size or bigger, essentially 10,000 or more people, only about 25% had two-year terms for their mayor. The split was officially 27 cities for and 79 that used a four-year term.

The item is on the agenda for Monday’s meeting, which is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. at the District 742 administration building. All meetings have been moved from city hall while renovations are underway.

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