Circle Pines Mayor Dave Bartholomay Honored with LMC’s Top Award for Elected Officials
Circle Pines Mayor Dave Bartholomay was named the League of Minnesota Cities’ 2025 C.C. Ludwig Award recipient Thursday at the League’s Annual Conference in Duluth. The C.C. Ludwig Award is the League’s top honor for elected officials.
Bartholomay has served as mayor of Circle Pines for more than 20 years, following four years on the city council. Known across Minnesota for his calm, collaborative leadership and unwavering commitment to the public good, “Mayor Dave” has left a lasting impact on his own city and beyond.
“He knows our residents by name. He shows up whether it’s a council meeting, a neighborhood event, or a quiet moment when someone simply needs a listening ear,” Circle Pines’ council members and City Administrator Patrick Antonen wrote in their nomination letter. “His legacy is not just one of accomplishments, but of deep, personal impact.”
Under Bartholomay’s leadership, Circle Pines has undergone thoughtful redevelopment while remaining “a safe, sustainable, and welcoming place for all.” He is also credited with fostering lasting partnerships with schools and civic organizations.
Bartholomay’s influence extends far beyond Circle Pines. “Mayor Dave Bartholomay exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated, forward-thinking public servant,” Wyoming City Administrator Robb Linwood said. “His leadership extends far beyond his own city—his work as a facilitator in multiple leadership groups has helped shape and inspire a new generation of city administrators across Minnesota.”
In addition to his mayoral role, Bartholomay has served on the Centennial Lakes Police Governing Board since 2006 and previously spent two decades as a Centennial Utilities Commissioner. His résumé also includes positions as assistant commissioner of the State Planning Agency, executive director of mediation services for Anoka County, and leadership roles with the Minnesota Council on Local Results and Innovation, National League of Cities, and North Metro Mayors Association.
“Dave is a bright, diligent, courageous, and kind leader,” Moorhead City Manager Dan Mahli said. “His good humor and warmth, infused with an unusually strong work ethic, make him a joy to work with. In part, I expect this is a reflection of his genuine care for the public good and commitment to service.”
The C.C. Ludwig Award is named for a former League executive director and is the League’s highest award for elected officials. Established in 1962, the award is presented annually to recognize outstanding service. Recipients are chosen for their vision, statesmanship, and commitment to the public good.
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 over 830 member cities through advocacy, education and training, policy development, risk management, and other services.
