New Met Council District 15 representative Victor Obasakin introduces himself to Apple Valley council

Apple Valley, Minn. — Victor Obasakin, the newly appointed Metropolitan Council representative for District 15, introduced himself to the Apple Valley City Council on Aug. 28 and said he intends to maintain regular contact with city leaders and bring regional resources to the area.

Obasakin said he represents District 15, which includes Apple Valley, Eagan and West St. Paul, and listed committee assignments that he had just received: community development, transportation, the audit committee and climate. He said he plans to meet with mayors, city administrators and development officers to listen to local priorities and said Mayor Hoopa already had replied to an introductory email.

"I will be vocal for our community, and the goal ultimate goal is to bring the med council resources to the area," Obasakin said. He also said his office will communicate by email and phone and encouraged council members to contact him or his staff member Nathan if they do not get a response.

Council members welcomed Obasakin's stated intention to increase communication with local governments and noted that past representatives had been less engaged. Obasakin said he will schedule an initial sit-down with Apple Valley soon and will follow up with emails and meetings.

Obasakin recited basic Metropolitan Council context (seven counties, 182 cities and townships, roughly 3.25 million people as of 2024) and said the council was created in 1967 to coordinate regional planning and essential services.