The District Energy St. Paul and Ever-Green Energy team members add our voices to the chorus paying tribute to former Saint Paul Mayor George Latimer. We wish peace to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.
District Energy and Ever-Green would likely not exist without Mayor Latimer. The companies’ origin began more than four decades ago with a
Hans Nyman, George Latimer, and John Taylor
visionary idea that took root with the mayor and his collaborators Alice Murphy and Hans Nyman. Together, they saw the potential for a district energy system that would serve the immediate needs of Saint Paul and also serve as a model for the nation. George came to understand the benefit of a modern district energy system is the ability to integrate new energy sources and innovative technologies. This foresight, coupled with the support of a forward-thinking board of directors, laid the foundation for what would become an example for hot water district energy systems across the country and around the world.
Mayor George Latimer was District Energy’s original local champion. We continue to see his lesson in our work today, that for large-scale or transformative projects to succeed, the community needs visionary leaders who will continue to drive toward a vision through every step in the process and navigate all of the ups and downs. He believed in district energy, and he never gave up.
As the longest serving mayor (1976-1990), George Latimer’s incredible impact on our city endures. He helped to drive redevelopment of the downtown core while championing long-standing community institutions. It is fitting that the first customer we served in September 1983 now bears his name, the George Latimer Central Library. He served as a founder and first Chairman of the board for District Energy, and he has been named Director Emeritus for the organization.
Alongside his vision and drive, people genuinely enjoyed working with George. He was quick witted, a great storyteller, and wanted to understand the perspectives and stories of others. As his many accomplishments are heralded, his bold personality and love for life are made clear. He will be missed by many.
In September 2023, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mayor Latimer about his remarkable journey working alongside community leaders to develop the district energy system.
“Former Saint Paul Mayor George Latimer Reflects on 40 Years of District Energy.”
Additional Tributes
St. Paul BOMA: BOMA 50th Anniversary Documentary Special
KSTP: George Latimer, visionary St. Paul mayor who reshaped city’s core, dies at 89
Pioneer Press: George Latimer, St. Paul’s longest serving mayor who oversaw rapid change for the city, dies at 89
Star Tribune: George Latimer, St. Paul’s longest-serving mayor, dies at 89
Star Tribune editorial: George Latimer left a strong mark on St. Paul
KARE: Friends reflect on former St. Paul Mayor George Latimer’s life (msn.com)
MPR: Longtime St. Paul mayor George Latimer dies at 89 | MPR News
