Janice Rettman, former Chair of the Great River Rail Commission passed away on Nov. 18,
2023 at the age of 75, following a brief illness.
For more than 30 years, Rettman served the community, holding an array of positions, including Ramsey County Commissioner, where she focused on public transit and affordable housing.
Rettman was known for her frugal approach to government, often casting the solitary “No” vote for increasing local property taxes. Rettman often voiced her concern for economically
challenged homeowners and those with fixed incomes who would especially feel the burden of additional expenses.
In addition to Rettman’s focus on affordable housing, she served the Ramsey County
community as an advocate for public transportation, where she served for 6 years with the
Great River Rail Commission, taking on the leadership role from 2015 to 2019.
Current Great River Rail Commission Chair, Trista Martinson spoke of qualities that made
Rettman ideal for her leadership role. “Her legacy of compassion and prudence will be
remembered for many years to come. I want to offer my deepest condolences, and those of all my colleagues, to her many friends and loved ones.”
No funeral arrangements have been released at this time.
Related articles:
