Commissioner David Senjem appointed Vice Chair of NACo Environment, Energy and Land Use Steering Committee

Olmsted County Commissioner David Senjem has been appointed Vice Chair of the National Association of Counties (NACo) Environment, Energy and Land Use Steering Committees. The appointment, announced by newly elected NACo President Judge J.D. Clark during the NACo annual meeting in Philadelphia, elevates Commissioner Senjem’s role from his previous position as Vice Chair of the committee’s Energy Subcommittee to a leadership position on the full steering committee. 

The committee, comprised of more than 130 county representatives from across the United States, develops NACo policy recommendations on environmental, energy, and land use issues for the federal government. In addition to his new leadership role, Commissioner Senjem has been appointed to NACo’s Resilient Counties Innovation Council. 

“The appointment is an obvious honor,” said Commissioner Senjem. “I was not necessarily aspiring for a higher level of responsibility within the steering committee, but when you are picked by the national president, on the recommendation of your committee peers, it is humbling.” 

As Vice Chair, Commissioner Senjem will work closely with Committee Chair Supervisor Mike Turner of Loudoun County, Virginia, to support the committee’s policy development process, monthly virtual education meetings, and other operations needs. He may also be called upon to testify before congressional committees or advocate for NACo policies on Capitol Hill. 

His top priorities in the role include advancing policies that promote clean energy and environmental sustainability, aligning with Olmsted County’s mission of building a sustainable foundation for a safe, healthy, and welcoming community through public service excellence. “We have but one earth and it must support generations of life until there is no more,” he said. “It is imperative, I believe, for each generation to do our part in ensuring that Mother Earth is healthy and happy for centuries to come. To do this, the committee relies on a wide range of expertise at the government level, the university level, and from not-for-profit environmental organizations and experts to develop policy.” 

With years of public service experience at both the local and state levels, Commissioner Senjem brings extensive knowledge and connections to the role. He expressed gratitude to Olmsted County residents for the opportunity to represent them on a national stage and pledged to give his very best in service. 

About NACo 

The National Association of Counties (NACo) represents the interests of America’s counties, serving as a powerful voice in federal policymaking and a vital part of the nation’s intergovernmental system. With thousands of elected and professional officials as members, NACo unites leaders from across the country to shape national policies, share best practices, and strengthen counties for a stronger America. 

At the core of its mission, NACo advances county priorities, promotes innovative policies, nurtures leadership skills, and builds networks of knowledge and collaboration. Through its committees, caucuses, and task forces, NACo empowers counties to optimize resources, improve services, and enhance public understanding of county government. 

NACo is dedicated to creating opportunities for counties to lead, learn, and advocate—ensuring they remain strong and capable of meeting the needs of their residents.