Former Blaine Mayor Tom Ryan honored with top award for elected officials

(8月. 16, 2021–St. 保罗,MN) Longtime Blaine Mayor Tom Ryan was recently named as the 2021 C.C. 路德维希奖 winner by the League of Minnesota Cities. Ryan served the city of Blaine for 34 years — 24 as mayor — and retired from office at the end of 2020.

C.C. 路德维希奖, named for a former League executive director, is the League’s highest award for elected officials. Established in 1962, the award is presented annually in celebration of outstanding service. Recipients are chosen for their vision, statesmanship, and unwavering commitment to the public good.

Under Ryan’s leadership, the city guided construction of new city parks, athletic facilities, public safety and public works facilities, and in February of 2020 he cut the ribbon on a new senior center. The city also implemented long term planning to build and maintain quality infrastructure to support the booming population and notable developments like the National Sports Center and the TPC Twin Cities, home of the 3M Open PGA tournament. In addition to his support of development and transportation, Ryan helped establish the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary, and oversaw acquisition of 800 acres of open space for preservation. During Ryan’s time as mayor, Blaine grew from 40,000 people to almost 70,000 and transformed into a destination city with more than 5.5 million visitors each year.

Even though Blaine is now the biggest city in Anoka County, Ryan is known for his personal approach, often meeting with residents in person to understand the issues they face. He was ever-present at city events including Citizens Academy, the Blaine Festival, 安全营地, 晚上统一, 和大集会上. Ryan also took an active role in learning about the work of staff so that the council could best support effective city operations. “He empowers us to do our jobs without any political motivation,” said 警察 Chief Brian Podany. “He is incredibly dedicated to both residents and staff and you can find him regularly stopping by just to check in with everyone to see how they are doing. This personal touch is unique and appreciated.”

The 2021 League awards were judged by panels of city officials including representatives from League boards and committees. More League award winners including the James F. Miller Leadership Award, City of Excellence Awards, and the Sustainable City Award are being announced at city council meeting presentations throughout August, 9月, 和10月.