When the newspaper Dagens Samhälle presented its list of Sweden's most powerful local politicians, Skellefteå's municipal councilor Lorents Burman (Social Democrats) was ranked 22nd. In the motivation, Burman is highlighted as an important voice for northern Sweden and Skellefteå's growth.

–The party leadership listens when northern Sweden roars, and Burman is one of the heavyweights in that context, says a source to Dagens Samhälle.

However, Burman himself does not pay much attention to the ranking but is pleased that Skellefteå is being recognized.

– When you work around the clock, all year round, you stay grounded, and lists don't matter, he says.

– I don't feel powerful, but I have been involved in changing Skellefteå, and it is great fun to see the results and the faith in the future emerge, he adds.