2026 Legislative Retreat
The MOHR Government Affairs Committee (GAC) is excited to invite you to the 2026 MOHR Legislative Retreat at a NEW location: Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort in Deerwood, August 25–26, 2026. This event has traditionally been held at Arrowwood Resort in Alexandria, so we hope you’ll join us to check out the new venue while connecting with colleagues.
What to expect:
- Monday night welcome + networking (Aug 24)
- A full retreat day on Tuesday (Aug 25) and a wrap-up by midday Wednesday (Aug 26)
- Plenty of time to reflect on the recent legislative session, hear insights from guest speakers, identify member priorities for next year’s legislative plan, and engage with each other
- Presentations will include an employment law update from attorney Janet Dorr, updates from MOHR lobbyist Kevin Goodno and Anni Simons, Meghan Hanson from DEED, ANCOR, and more yet to be confirmed....
- A hot breakfast will be provided on Tuesday and Wednesday morning, and a taco buffet will be served for lunch on Tuesday. Dinner is on your own Tuesday night with options both on and off resort to explore.
- Pontoon rides will be available after Tuesday’s retreat plus there are numerous activities available at the resort (some are free, others at your own expense) including lawn games, kayaking, golf, fishing, tubing, onsite shopping and spa, pickleball, tennis, basketball, mountain biking, exploring the surrounding area, and more!
Monday night welcome + networking (Aug 24):
This is a “new” addition to the Retreat, replacing the typical evening hospitality cabin on day one. If you’re able to arrive Monday, we’re planning a relaxed happy hour and networking time at Ruttger’s Bear Pine Bar at 6:00pm. This will include two drink tickets, appetizers, and outdoor fun (weather permitting).
Lodging Details – Book your room!:
Discounted room rates are available Monday and Tuesday (Monday check-in is at 5:00 pm; check-out Wednesday by 11:00 am). Use this link to book online at a discounted rate: Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort in MN | Brainerd MN Lodging. Please note that there are a variety of room options and lodging styles available. Some lodging options require the use of stairs or are a bit further from the conference center. The resort map shows the general locations.
If you are looking to extend your stay, need specific accommodations, need space for a larger group, or need more details, please call the Ruttger’s event coordinator, Karen Rettke at 218-678-4626.
Make it a long weekend:
Consider staying an extra night to enjoy the resort and surrounding area: 25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Deerwood
Next Steps:
Hopefully you are now ready to say YES to attending. Registration is now open to all MOHR members via this link: Legislative Retreat
The retreat registration cost to attend is $250 per attendee. Lodging is an additional step and cost, so don’t forget to make reservations via the Ruttger’s link.
Please share any meeting accommodation requests with Heidi Smith at hsmith@stepinc.org. Providing this information in advance will help us ensure an accessible and comfortable experience for all attendees.
We hope to see you at this year’s MOHR Legislative Retreat at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort!
