Oak Park Heights announces new mayor, available council seat
The city of Oak Park Heights announced Wednesday that Chuck Dougherty will be taking over the position of Oak Park Heights mayor after the death of Mayor Mary McComber in May. McComber served as mayor from 2012 to 2025.
'Mayor McComber left some big shoes to fill, but in this time of transition, I am committed to providing steady leadership and ensuring continuity for our community,' Dougherty said in the announcement. 'I look forward to continuing to serve our community with dedication, working alongside our Council, staff and residents.'
Dougherty previously served as deputy mayor and has had a seat on the Oak Park Heights City Council since 2013. He and his wife also own the Water Street Inn and the Cover Park Manor Bed & Breakfast.
The city council is accepting applications for Dougherty's vacated council seat through Thursday, July 3, according to the announcement. Dougherty and the new council member will serve in these roles until November 2026, when a special election for the positions will occur.
Both special elections would be for a two-year term to finish the remaining terms of McComber and Dougherty.
Applications for Oak Park Heights City Council can be found on the city's website at cityofoakparkheights.com or at City Hall at 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N.
As mayor, Dougherty will help plan for the 2028 closure of the Allen S. King plant in Oak Park Heights. The plant currently provides close to 28 percent of Oak Park Heights' tax base. When running for city council in 2024, Dougherty said one of his priorities was coming up with a plan to minimize the effects the tax base loss will have on Oak Park Heights residents.
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