(St Paul, MN) — July 26th, 2024 -– At its Legislative Awards Dinner last night, the Coalition of Greater MN Cities (CGMC) presented Fergus Falls Mayor Ben Schierer with the Jack Murray Award for Distinguished Rural Leadership.
The award is given to city officials who demonstrate knowledge, leadership and active participation in CGMC program areas over their public service career. It is presented annually to a retiring CGMC mayor or elected official who has made special contributions to the CGMC over a multi-year career. The award is named after Jack Murray, former mayor of International Falls, who was instrumental in the CGMC’s formation. This year’s annual three-day convention was held in Waite Park and St. Joseph, MN.
Schierer is retiring as Mayor of the Fergus Falls City Council after serving in that role for eight years. “As we collaborate with the leaders of rural cities across Minnesota, it’s essential that we can work across political and geographical divides,” said Bradley Peterson, Executive Director of the CGMC. “Ben has consistently worked across the aisle within the Minnesota Legislature and at all levels of government – partnering with Democrats and Republicans alike – to find common ground, crucial to the success of communities in Greater Minnesota,” said Peterson.
“I take this non-partisan responsibility seriously,” said Schierer. “I believe we have more in common than we have differences. Through respectful dialogue and creative problem-solving, we continue to positively impact not only Fergus Falls, but our partners within the region. By working together with neighboring communities, we coalesce behind policies that benefit all of us,” Schierer added.
Prior to serving as mayor, Schierer represented his ward on the Fergus Falls City Council, also for eight years. Schierer is a 2020-21 Bush Fellow, a 2023 Presidential Leadership Scholar, and is currently the Director of Civic Partnerships for West Central Initiative. He is running for an open seat on the Otter Tail County Commission this November and will continue to serve his community for years to come, whether through his tireless professional work or volunteer efforts.
The CGMC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing more than 100 cities outside the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The Coalition educates legislators about issues important to Greater Minnesota.
