Thanks to everyone who joined us in Mora on Friday, April 10, for the Highway 23 Coalition Annual Meeting at Freddie’s Restaurant & Banquet Center. The room was filled with board members, elected officials, agency partners, community leaders, advocates, and supporters from across the corridor, all united around one mission: Citizens Advocating for a 4-Lane Minnesota Highway 23.
The day included networking, the annual business meeting, guest remarks, and meaningful conversations that showed just how much support continues to stand behind this work.
A Meeting Centered on Progress and Purpose
The Highway 23 Coalition Annual Meeting was a strong reminder that momentum continues to build because people continue to show up for the mission. Members reviewed annual reports highlighting strong membership retention, continued marketing and outreach efforts, and the Coalition’s ongoing advocacy work on behalf of the corridor.
That work reflects an organization that remains active, focused, and committed to moving the mission forward. Advancing a four-lane Highway 23 does not happen in one meeting or one legislative session. It happens through steady commitment, regional cooperation, and a clear voice that keeps pushing for safer, more efficient travel across Minnesota.
2026 Board Slate Approved
A key part of the Highway 23 Coalition annual meeting was the approval of the 2026 board slate. Members ratified Justin Ask to an open board seat representing the Willmar government sector through June 2028 and reelected Roland “Rollie” Nissen to another term through June 2029.
The meeting also included encouragement for others to apply for future board service, especially from the St. Cloud region and communities farther north, as the Coalition continues to strengthen representation across the full corridor. A broader leadership base strengthens the Coalition’s voice and its ability to advocate effectively for Highway 23.
Voices from Across the Corridor and Beyond
The Highway 23 Coalition Annual Meeting featured a strong lineup of speakers who understand the value of transportation investment, regional advocacy, and long-term corridor planning. A letter from Senator Amy Klobuchar was read to attendees by her representative, Chuck Ackman.
The Coalition also heard from a representative from Congressman Pete Stauber’s office, who spoke to the status and importance of improvements to Highway 23, along with a lobbyist on Capitol Hill who shared perspective on the value of sustained advocacy and continued attention to transportation priorities.
Among the many community leaders who spoke at the meeting were Representative Nathan Nelson, Representative Isaac Schultz, and Foley Mayor Brandon Voit. Their remarks reinforced what Coalition members continue to advocate for: Highway 23 is critical to the safety, connectivity, and economic vitality of communities across the corridor.
The Personal Side of the Mission
Some of the most meaningful moments of the Highway 23 Coalition annual meeting came from the personal stories shared by board members Jake Bauerly and Joe Bauerly, who spoke about why they serve and why they want to see this project move forward.
The mission for four lanes has never been just about a road. It is about safer travel for families, stronger regional connections, better access for business and agriculture, and improved mobility for the communities that rely on Highway 23 every day. Personal stories like these reinforce the real impact behind the Coalition’s work.
Honoring Jeff Bertram’s Service
Another meaningful moment was the presentation of a service award to Jeff Bertram in recognition of his many years of dedication to the Coalition, including his time as board chair. His leadership, persistence, and commitment helped build momentum around the Highway 23 mission and advance the push for four-lane progress.
Recognition like this reflects the importance of long-term leadership in achieving long-term goals.
Looking Ahead
The Highway 23 Coalition annual meeting made one thing clear: the mission remains strong, and so does the support behind it.
From board leadership and member engagement to advocacy at the state and federal levels, the Coalition continues to build momentum for a safer, stronger, four-lane Highway 23. Every voice, every partnership, and every show of support helps move that vision forward.
Thank you to everyone who attended, spoke, participated, and continues to stand behind the mission. Together, we will keep building momentum for 4 Lanes For You.
