Former Wadena Mayor Wayne Wolden was recognized by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities (CGMC) July 23 during the Coalition's three-day summer conference in Duluth for his excellence in service to Greater Minnesota.
The Jack Murray Award is given to city officials who demonstrate knowledge, leadership and active participation in CGMC program areas over their public service career. The award is named for Jack Murray, mayor of International Falls, who was instrumental in CGMC's formation.
Wolden was a longtime supporter of the CGMC and Greater Minnesota issues. He served as the CGMC's president in 2008-09, which was a particularly challenging time for Greater Minnesota communities as the state was struggling with perpetual budget deficits and the Local Government Aid program had become a prime target for cuts. Wolden was a vocal defender of LGA and became well known around the state due to his numerous media appearances on behalf of the Coalition.
"Wayne is the type of person you want leading the way in a time of crisis," said Heidi Omerza, president of the CGMC and a member of the Ely City Council. "Whether it was helping to save the LGA program from drastic cuts or guiding the city of Wadena through the aftermath of the 2010 tornado, Wayne always demonstrated strong character and leadership."
CGMC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing 85 cities outside of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The Coalition educates legislators about issues important to Greater Minnesota.
