Edina City Council — Transcript
Tuesday, September 22, 2026
City Manager Hiring Process and Selection
City Manager Employment Contract Approval
Votes (1)
Approval of City Manager's Employment Contract for Lori Hoken
Dissent: Council member Risser voiced concerns regarding the Edina Chamber of Commerce clause but ultimately voted 'Aye' for the contract approval.
Moved by Council member Jackson [16:00] · Seconded by Council member Pierce [16:02]
The discussion centered on the qualifications and experience of Lori Hoken, her selection process, and the terms of her employment contract. Council Member Risser raised a concern regarding the clause for funding civic club memberships, specifically questioning the Edina Chamber of Commerce due to historical involvement of the city manager on its board and previous ARPA/SPARK funding to the Chamber. Other council members and the Mayor clarified that the contract mirrors the outgoing manager's, and the city manager's role on the Chamber board is ex-officio, representing the city's broader 'three-legged milk stool' approach to community engagement, not a personal pecuniary interest. The Mayor also highlighted Hoken's leadership qualities and experience with technology, anticipating her success in Edina.
Notable Quotes (4)
She's a very good communicator. She's a problem solver...leader among leaders.
However, there is a mention of us um funding memberships uh and the Adina Chamber of Commerce has specifically mentioned under civic club membership item number nine. I have a concern about that.
the contract that we have today um really mirrors with a few changes the current contract that um manager Neil has. And so um we made a few changes in there. Uh but what I would would say is if there are issues or concerns that are raised, we will definitely uh look into that.
the civic portion of your contract is intended to make sure that people that work at the city are involved in the community they they don't necessarily live in, but they work in. So, it's not just a chamber. It's, you know, if you wanted to join the Rotary Club or the Lions Club or some other clubs, we want to make sure that we give you that opportunity.
Ordinances & Resolutions (1)
The specific document governing the employment terms of the new City Manager, Lori Hoken, which was the subject of discussion and approval.