Austin Utilities appoints Geoff Baker to board
Published 6:14 pm Tuesday, April 8, 2025
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Jeanne Sheehan, center, was honored for her years of serving on the Austin Utilities Board of Commissioners. She stepped down in February. Photo provided
Geoff Baker takes the oath of office. Photo provided
Geoff Baker was appointed to the Austin Utilities Board of Commissioners at the March 2025 board meeting. Baker was appointed to fill a vacancy created by Jeanne Sheehan’s retirement.
“It is great to have Geoff back on the board,” General Manager Mark Nibaur said. “His past contributions as a commissioner have made a lasting impact, and we’re excited to once again benefit from his leadership, insight, and dedication.”
Baker is the president and Chief Operating Officer at McFarland truck Lines in Austin. He has been with the family-owned company since 1998. He has a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and an MBA from the University of Kansas.
Baker was a member of the Austin Utilities Board of Commissioners from 2011 to 2020 and had an active role in the design and construction of the central facility. He also has experience as an Austin City Council member.
Baker will be involved in the search for a new General Manager for Austin Utilities, and making sure AU continues to focus on safety, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship.
Sheehan retired from the Board on Feb. 18, after 21 years of service.
Throughout her tenure as commissioner, Sheehan witnessed significant milestones, including the decommissioning of the downtown plant, the demolition of the northeast Power Plant, and the construction of the central facility. Sheehan has been honored to represent AU customers and has valued the connections she has built.
She appreciated the moments when customers reached out to share concerns or expressed gratitude for AU’s staff and crews. She takes great pride in AU’s strong reputation for reliability and service.
“Jeanne is a great advocate for our community and customers. She came to the board meetings prepared, asked great questions, and provided thoughtful insight,” Nibaur said. “I want to thank Jeanne for her dedication to our community, and just as importantly her dedication to AU employees. We wish her well, she will be missed.”
Austin Utilities is one of two municipal utilities in the state of MN governed by an elected Board of Commissioners. Appointments can be made when a position needs to be filled mid-term. The appointment process involves the mayor submitting a request for the board replacement with the city council approving. Commissioners are elected to serve four-year terms.