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Sauk Rapids City Administrator Ross Olson Named Recipient of 2026 LMC James F. Miller Leadership Award

June 26, 2026

 

Sauk Rapids City Administrator Ross Olson was named the 2026 James F. Miller Leadership Award recipient by the League of Minnesota Cities on Thursday. The award was announced at the League’s Annual Conference.

Olson, who has served the City of Sauk Rapids for more than 25 years, was selected for the award in recognition of his exceptional leadership, innovative community development efforts, and enduring commitment to public service. Since becoming city administrator in 2002, Olson has helped transform Sauk Rapids into one of Central Minnesota’s most vibrant and fast-growing communities while maintaining a strong focus on collaboration, long-term planning, and community engagement.

“Ross consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership in guiding our community forward with vision, integrity, and purpose,” Sauk Rapids Mayor Jason Ellering wrote in support of Olson’s nomination. “His ability to approach complex challenges with creativity and practicality has resulted in meaningful, lasting improvements for our city.”

Throughout his career, Olson has led numerous transformative projects that have reshaped Sauk Rapids. His leadership helped guide the construction of a new Mississippi River bridge, downtown revitalization efforts, expansion of the city’s industrial parks, and the development of community gathering spaces that have strengthened both the local economy and quality of life.

Among his most visible contributions is the development of Southside Park and Riverside Terrace, as well as the creation of the popular “Rock the Riverside” concert series. What began as a vision for a more vibrant community gathering space has grown into a regional attraction that brings thousands of residents and visitors together each summer.

“If you’ve ever worked with Ross on a project, he doesn’t do it halfway. It’s all or nothing,” Sauk Rapids City Council Member Ellen Thronson wrote. “No idea was shot down and everyone’s voice was heard. That’s leadership.”

In addition to his work in Sauk Rapids, Olson has been an active contributor to local government and community development across Minnesota. He has served with organizations including the Minnesota City/County Management Association, Economic Development Association of Minnesota, Minnesota Municipal Beverage Association, and the League of Minnesota Cities Policy Advisory Committee. He also teaches “Government 101” courses, mentors future leaders, and supports numerous civic and charitable initiatives throughout the region.

Colleagues and community leaders describe Olson as a collaborative leader who builds strong partnerships and inspires those around him.

“Ross leads with purpose and clarity,” Sauk Rapids-Rice Superintendent Brad Bergstrom wrote. “He builds strong partnerships and keeps people at the center of his work.”

Former Sauk Rapids Mayor Mark Campbell credited Olson’s leadership with helping guide decades of growth and stability in the community.

“Ross is a collaborative and effective leader who communicates well with elected officials, staff, and residents,” Campbell wrote. “He has a talent for presenting complex issues clearly and offering practical, well-balanced solutions that serve the best interests of the community.”

Olson’s influence extends beyond city hall through his involvement in community events, volunteer organizations, and economic development initiatives that have helped establish Sauk Rapids as a destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.

“His confidence, character, and integrity make him a solid innovator who can impact both individuals and entire communities through his incredible insight and leadership,” nominator and Sauk Rapids festival coordinator Marla Elness wrote. “There’s no question that Ross Olson has led the way to make Sauk Rapids ‘Everybody’s Hometown.’”

The James F. Miller Leadership Award is the League’s highest honor for appointed city officials and is presented annually to recognize outstanding service. The award is named for former League executive director James F. Miller, who retired in 2015 after 22 years of service.

The League of Minnesota Cities is a membership organization dedicated to helping cities throughout Minnesota build quality communities through effective advocacy, expert analysis, trusted guidance, and collective action. The League serves more than 830 member cities through advocacy, education and training, policy development, risk management, and other services.