St. Joseph Mayor Rick Schultz was recognized by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities July 25 during the coalition’s three-day summer conference in Bemidji for his excellence in service to Greater Minnesota.
The Excellence in Service Award is given annually to city leaders who demonstrate knowledge, leadership and active participation in the coalition’s program areas during the past year.
Schultz previously served on the coalition’s Board of Directors for several years and continues to stay involved in the organization by advocating in support of key priorities such as Local Government Aid, infrastructure funding and economic development. In addition, he has provided testimony for legislative hearings on the group’s priorities and helped with recruitment efforts. Earlier this year, he also assisted in promoting the coalition’s legislative goals by joining staff on media visits.
“It’s clear that Rick cares deeply about making sure his city and other cities in Greater Minnesota have opportunities to grow and thrive,” said Ron Johnson, coalition president, in a press release. Johnson is also a member of the Bemidji City Council. “His efforts have not only advanced rural issues at the Legislature, but have also helped make the CGMC a stronger organization.”
Shultz was first elected St. Joseph mayor in 2010. He was re-elected without opposition to another two-year term in 2018.
Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing 97 cities outside of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The Coalition educates legislators about issues important to Greater Minnesota.
St. Joseph Mayor Schultz (left) receives his award the award from CGMC President and Bemidji City Councilor Ron Johnson.