Former Oak Park Heights City Council member Mark Swenson is back on the council after a 6½-year hiatus.

Swenson, 61, who served on the council from 1994 to 2018, was appointed Tuesday night to fill a vacancy on the council. He was one of five residents who applied for the position, which was left open when council member Chuck Dougherty became mayor after the May 26 death of former Mayor Mary McComber.

Mark Swenson (Courtesy of the candidate)

Swenson “has a proven track record of service to our community and a strong understanding of our city,” Dougherty said. “We are fortunate to have his experience and dedication on the council once again.”

Swenson will serve on the council until a special election to fill the seat is held in November 2026.

“I’m not going to rule out running again,” Swenson said. “It was kind of nice having a little siesta where I could rest for a little bit, but I missed it. There are so many good people who are on the council and who work for the city. Leadership is how we act amongst each other. If you have a council that is cohesive, they’ll be rock solid all day long, and there is no doubt in my mind that I can help the city with the experience that I have. I’m looking forward to being part of that team again.”

Swenson will be sworn in at the Sept. 9 council meeting.

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