Your Trusted Partner
&
A Record of Delivering Results
Delivering Results.
Trusted & Principled Guidance.
Delivering Results. Trusted & Principled Guidance.
The Costin Group is a respected lobbying and public affairs firm with a proven record of advocating for our clients. We specialize in government relations, strategic and crisis communications, and navigating the complexities of the Minnesota Legislature, Executive Branch, and the Federal Government. We bring experience, creativity, and passion to advance the best interests of our clients in securing funding for critical projects, addressing regulatory challenges, or modifying public policies.
Our focus is simple: help clients get things done. Whether it’s securing state bonding dollars, advancing infrastructure investments, supporting local development initiatives, or guiding public-private partnerships, we bring the relationships, credibility, and strategic insight needed to turn priorities into outcomes.
At The Costin Group, we don’t just monitor the process — we move it. From city halls to the Capitol, we’re committed to delivering tangible results that bring projects to life.
Who We Are
Jeff Anderson
Principal
Click & Meet Jeff
Jeff Anderson is a seasoned public affairs strategist, former elected official, media professional, and accomplished business leader with deep experience navigating government and the private sector. As Principal of The Costin Group, Jeff brings a strategic, results-driven approach to advocacy, guiding clients through complex legislative and regulatory environments at the state and federal levels.
Jeff began his career in media under the mentorship of legendary CBS News correspondent Charles Kuralt. He went on to work on-air, in sales, and management, gaining a deep appreciation for the power of communication—an insight that continues to shape his work in public affairs and government relations.
He has held key positions in government and politics, including President of the Duluth City Council and District Director and Deputy Chief of Staff to U.S. Representative Rick Nolan. These roles, paired with prior executive experience in the private sector, give Jeff a unique ability to blend policy expertise with effective messaging and strategic execution.
A native of Ely, Minnesota, Jeff served six years in the Minnesota Army National Guard and remains deeply rooted in the values of northern Minnesota. He is also a successful entrepreneur, co-owning the Boat Club Restaurant & Bar, Vanilla Bean Restaurant, and JayBee Travel—a group travel company serving the region.
Known for his strategic insight, political instincts, and relentless advocacy, Jeff has worked with and for numerous elected officials across Minnesota and in Washington, DC. His leadership ensures that The Costin Group’s clients receive trusted guidance, strong relationships, and the tactical support necessary to achieve their goals.
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Gary Cerkvenik
Founder
Representing clients at the local, state, and federal levels.
Click & Meet Gary
Gary Cerkvenik is a veteran public affairs professional with decades of experience in lobbying, political strategy, and public service. He has built a distinguished career at the intersection of government, economic development, and advocacy, representing clients at both the state and federal levels with a reputation for effectiveness, creativity, and results.
Gary began his career in public service as the youngest-ever elected Chair of the St. Louis County Board. His early work led to key roles in landmark political efforts, including senior positions with Congressman Jim Oberstar, Governor Rudy Perpich, U.S. Senators Paul Wellstone and John Kerry, as well as the Carter-Mondale and Dukakis presidential campaigns. He was also the first Executive Director of the Minnesota DFL Party and has provided strategic counsel to numerous local, state, and national political, referendum, and constitutional amendment campaigns over the years.
As a consultant and lobbyist, Gary has advised public agencies, private companies, and coalitions on complex legislative and regulatory matters. He is recognized for his ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders and for navigating the intricacies of government policy to deliver meaningful outcomes. His work has spanned infrastructure, transportation, economic development, education, healthcare, recreation, and energy issues, with great success in advancing the interests of Greater Minnesota.
Beyond politics, Gary has led and contributed to major civic and cultural projects, including organizing Earth Day 1990 in Boston—then the largest event in New England’s history—and managing the early stages of the Nature Valley Grand Prix professional cycling race. He holds a Master of Arts in World War II Studies, has taught government and philosophy at the college level, and remains actively engaged in his community through coaching and officiating with the Minnesota State High School League. Gary and his wife, Kim, were recognized by the US Congress with the “Angels of Adoption” Award. He is proud to have won the prestigious Minnesota Border to Border Triathlon with his cousin Steve.
Gary’s career reflects a deep commitment to public service, strategic advocacy, and strengthening communities through thoughtful policy and persistent leadership.
How We Help Our Clients
The Costin Group, Inc., public and private sector clients appreciate our ability to align government policies, tax incentives, and economic development programs with their business objectives. We possess the experience and communication skills to convey complex business needs in clear, concise messages that elected officials can easily comprehend and act upon. We have specialized in the renewable energy, health care, forestry, education, engineering, and air transportation industries. We are also interested in new industries, ideas, and challenges in both the public and private sectors!
From school construction and municipal infrastructure to bicycle and ATV trail development, we specialize in advancing projects that matter to communities. Our team knows how to navigate state and federal systems, build coalitions, and ensure our clients’ priorities are heard—and funded—at every level of government.
When you partner with The Costin Group, you get more than guidance. You get results.
$194 million in funding for the Northern Lights Express inter-city passenger rail project.
Securing $30 million in funding for the Voyageurs National Park Clean Water Project, among many other legislative projects.
Funding over $25 million for the creation of the Mesabi Trail running from the Mississippi to the Boundary Waters.
Achieving funding for the Duluth School District’s $32 million 2022 facilities project.
$ 200+ million, Creation of the School Cooperation and Consolidation program for new K-12 school construction and advanced educational programs.
$8 million to create a new Voyageurs National Park Visitor Center, campground, and public boat access in Minnesota’s only national park.
$90 million incentive package to jump-start the public investments in Essentia Health’s Vision Northland project, which leveraged $900 million for a new hospital complex in Duluth and improvements in the Medical District.
Strategic Counsel
With decades of experience advising senior leaders in politics, government, media, and business, The Costin Group offers trusted, high-level counsel tailored to today’s complex landscape. We partner with executives to enhance their strategic positioning, guide decision-making, and anticipate the impact of political and public affairs trends on their operations.
Whether navigating corporate challenges, managing expansion, or shaping public presence, we provide clear, holistic advice that aligns business goals with political realities. Our clients count on us for discretion, insight, and results across boardrooms, government halls, and media platforms.
Crisis Communication & Strategic Messaging
At The Costin Group, we help clients navigate high-stakes situations with clarity and confidence. We have the experience, common sense, and stability to support your team, equipping them to navigate any communications challenge, whether it’s a rapidly unfolding crisis or a sensitive public issue.
We work with clients to develop and implement cohesive, cross-channel strategies that protect reputations, maintain public trust, and ensure consistent messaging. In moments that matter most, we help you lead with confidence and communicate with purpose.