A longtime East Grand Forks City Council member will retire from civil service after dedicating more than 20 years to city government.
Henry Tweten, 94, will not run for re-election to the Fourth Ward when his seat appears on the ballot this November.
"I thought there should be somebody else," he said when asked why he decided not to run. "I didn't intend to stay as long as I did."
Tweten had a six-year stint in the 1960s on the council before rejoining the governing body in 2000. He also practiced law for more than 60 years, was active in the Democratic Party and served on the Minnesota State Board of Higher Education. The local Chamber of Commerce said he was "critically instrumental in the establishment of the Northland Community and Technical College in East Grand Forks" when he was given the Henry Havig Award in 2014, The Chamber's most prestigious accolade.
Tweten also was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries he received while serving in the U.S. Army during World War II.
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East Grand Forks Mayor Steve Gander acknowledged Tweten's service to the city and said the council member has displayed a love for patriotism, civil service and people.
"He has such a servant's heart, and that's why he's still where he is," Gander said.
Tweten said he plans to spend more time at the lake. It's time for new blood, and there are talented people in East Grand Forks who can make good contributions to the community.
"I couldn't be there forever," he said. "That wouldn't be fair."
Council member Mike Pokrzywinski of the Second Ward also is not seeking re-election this year. He served from 2008 to 2012 and took a break before being elected to office in 2014.
Pokrzywinski said he feels he's accomplished a lot as a member of the council and it's a good time to leave the board.
"I have always believed that boards need new blood," he said. "I think the council with the new mayor is in good hands."
At-Large council member Marc DeMers is up for re-election.
