Sauk Rapids City Administrator Ross Olson Honored for Decades of Public Service

(KNSI) – Sauk Rapids City Administrator Ross Olson has received the 2026 James F. Miller Leadership Award from the League of Minnesota Cities.

Olson, who has served as the city’s administrator since 2002, accepted the award at the league’s Annual Conference on Thursday, June 25. According to a press release, he was chosen for the honor because of his “innovative community development and enduring commitment to public service.”

Among Olson’s contributions to Sauk Rapids are developing Southside Park and Riverside Terrace and creating the popular Rock The Riverside concert series. He also oversaw the construction of a new Mississippi River bridge, the expansion of the city’s industrial parks and the development of numerous community gathering spaces.

“Ross consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership in guiding our community forward with vision, integrity, and purpose,” said Mayor Jason Ellering. “His ability to approach complex challenges with creativity and practicality has resulted in meaningful, lasting improvements for our city.”

Outside of his work in Sauk Rapids, Olson has been involved with several local government and community development organizations throughout Minnesota. These include the Minnesota City/County Management Association, the Economic Development Association of Minnesota and the League of Minnesota Cities Policy Advisory Committee.

Olson also teaches Government 101 courses and continues to support civic and charitable initiatives across the state.

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