BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — Kenmare Mayor Arlen Gartner has received the Leadership Excellence Award from the 2024 North Dakota League of Cities (NDLC) Annual Conference.

The Leadership Excellence Award goes to a person who demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities and a commitment to improving the community.Mayor Gartner has shown dedication to improving Kenmare by helping the city grow and mentoring people in the community. His consistent availability, responsiveness to residents’ concerns, and dedication to making sure the needs of the community are met, have made him someone the city admires.

Apart from being mayor, Gartner has worked for more than 50 years as an EMT on the Kenmare ambulance team. Until 2020, Gartner and his wife were also the owners of Gartner’s Jack & Jill grocery store in Kenmare.

“Mayor Gartner is a true example of what leadership looks like,” said NDLC President Jim Neubauer. “His commitment to the residents of Kenmare and his hands-on approach make him a role model for elected officials across the state.”

Many successful projects have been taken on under Gartner’s guidance, enhancing the city’s infrastructure and the residents’ quality of life. His oversight of finance, police, water, and street projects, among others, has fostered change and driven progress in the community. His leadership style is collaborative, which has encouraged schools, businesses, and other groups to work with him on various projects.

“Arlen’s commitment to service and community engagement is humbling,” said NDLC Executive Director Matt Gardner. “His work across various city departments demonstrates a level of involvement that is truly commendable.”

For more information on the NDLC Annual Conference, visit this page .

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