City and mayor recognized as innovators

The City was recognized as a regional leader and innovator by the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce during its first annual Regional Leaders and Innovators Award presentation in September. The Chamber honored municipal leaders throughout the Twin Cities who exemplify innovation, excellence and commitment to the long-term economic success of their respective communities. Mayor Tim Busse and two of the City’s programs received awards.

Bloomington received the award for Innovation in Public Safety for the Bloomington Police Department’s Shared Community Values initiative and for Innovation in Sustainability for its new Curbside Cleanup program.

The Chamber’s first-ever Bold North Award was presented to Mayor Tim Busse. Jonathan Weinhagen, president and CEO at Minneapolis Regional Chamber, said the award is about honoring an individual who espouses the Bold North mentality and who is willing to champion the region no matter the circumstances.

“I can think of no better individual to receive this inaugural award than Mayor Tim Busse. While our expo bid may not have been successful, our region and state were extremely well received on the world stage and this effort only served to strengthen our region’s strong public-private partnerships,” Weinhagen said. “Mayor Busse’s leadership and efforts in helping us carry this bid show that Minnesota is worthy of the global spotlight. We made global connections that will continue to highlight our state as a desirable destination for tourism, business and investment.”