Minnesota Agencies

The ombudsperson provides a neutral, independent resource for dispute and issue resolution between the department and the general public where another mechanism or forum is not available; gathers information about decisions, acts, and other matters of the department; provides information to the general public; facilitates discussions or arranging mediation when appropriate; and maintains and monitors performance measures for the ombudsperson program.

The Transportation Ombudsperson office was established in 2008 by the then-commissioner of MnDOT, Thomas K. Sorel. The Legislature codified this role in statute in 2013 (see Laws of Minnesota 2013, chapter 127, section 47).

The transportation ombudsperson reports directly to the commissioner. The ombudsperson must be selected without regard to political affiliation and must be qualified to perform the duties specified in this subdivision.