Councilor Mike Mayou will not seek reelection

Duluth City Councilor Mike Mayou, who represents the second district, is not seeking reelection.

The move will allow Mayou to prioritize his family. His wife was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and they became new parents in October.

Mayou took office in January of 2022 at the age of 23. His term on the city council runs through the end of the year.

In a statement, Mayou said this: “It is a great honor to serve the City of Duluth and the people of the second district. While this work can be incredibly challenging, it can also be incredibly rewarding! I have loved being able to help connect people with services and to be an advocate and a partner in solving neighborhood and community issues. Our city staff and our community have incredible passion and dedication for making meaningful change to this place we call home. Now, more than ever, we need our local elected officials to stand up for everyone. I love this city and the people who live here and will remain committed to the health and well-being of our community.”

Mayou currently sits on the Duluth Public Utilities Commission, Metropolitan Interstate Council, Arrowhead Regional Development Commission, and the Duluth Parking Commision.

Over the years, Mayou has advocated for accessible streets for all, secured funding for equipment for the city to reduce its salt usage, spearheaded conversations about decarbonization, fought for raises for city employees, supported the library as it realized its new vision, and worked to secure funding to replace lead lines.

Mayou added: “I would like to thank current and past councilors and mayors, our amazing city staff, community advocates, residents of District 2, my wife, family, friends, team, and supporters for everything over the past three and a half years. It is truly an honor to serve.”