Longtime MnDOT chief Tom Sorel steps down for private sector job

Minnesota Department of Transportation Commissioner Tom Sorel is leaving the position after four years to take a job leading AAA Minneapolis.

Sorel announced his resignation  in a news release on Thursday, and will start his new role as president and CEO of AAA Minneapolis on Dec. 1. Gov. Mark Dayton appointed deputy commissioner and chief engineer Bernie Arseneau, who has been with the agency for 30 years, to serve as acting commissioner.

Sorel was first tapped for the job by former Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty in April 2008. Sorel was crucial in calming the waters in the department after Senate Democrats voted to boot Lt. Gov. Carol Molnau from the position. Dayton reappointed Sorel to the position in 2010, citing his ability to work with both parties.

“MnDOT is a great organization supported by exemplary public servants who I will miss tremendously. My thanks go to Governor Dayton, who reappointed me as Commissioner, and the legislative transportation committees that confirmed me,” Sorel said in a statement. “As I move into the next phase of my life’s journey, I will always cherish my time serving as MnDOT Commissioner.”