Richter recognized for leadership excellence

At this year's annual conference of the North Dakota League of Cities (NDLC), New Rockford's own Stu Richter was honored with the 2024 Leadership Excellence Award.

The award is the highest honor a local elected official can receive from the NDLC, given only to those with exceptional leadership, dedication to community welfare, and commitment to making their community a welcoming and safe place for families.

Richter has been the New Rockford City Commission president since 2020, and was recently reelected in this year's primary.

A press release from the NDLC praises Richter's work on the commission as well as his leadership style.

"Richter has demonstrated selfless dedication, often going above and beyond his official duties," the press release states. "He spends numerous hours daily checking in with city staff and actively volunteers his time and equipment to support city maintenance workers. His proactive leadership approach exemplifies a commitment to enhancing community operations while balancing his responsibilities as a farmer and small business owner."

NDLC President Jim Neubauer said, "Mayor Richter is a visionary leader whose passion for his community is evident in every project he undertakes. His ability to listen to residents and foster a positive work environment sets a standard for elected officials across the state."

Looking back on Richter's time as commission president, there are a number of accomplishments and significant projects he's helped initiate and make reality.

The city-wide street improvement project and upgrades to water infrastructure – such as pipe replacements and improvements to the water tower – are among his accomplishments as commission president.

As president of the New Rockford Area Betterment Corporation he's also helped lead the successful remodel of the local bowling alley, and oversees the ongoing efforts to rebuild the town’s movie theatre.

“Stuart’s hands-on approach and advocacy for New Rockford is truly inspiring,” said NDLC Executive Director Matt Gardner. “His work on transformative infrastructure projects, along with his role in community betterment initiatives, has left a lasting impact on the city.”

Richter attended the annual NDLC conference along with other city officials, and when called up to receive his award Richter showed gratitude to his fellow commissioners and city staff who make New Rockford run.

“We’re very fortunate to have people behind me, with me … I appreciate everything you guys do,” he said. “I just kind of sprinkle ideas around and they pick up and run, and they do a beautiful job.

“We’ve done a lot of stuff over the years to enhance New Rockford,” Richter said. “... Our city, economic development and our county work really well together, and I think that’s what it takes. It takes a lot of people to get something going.”

In honor of his award, the city will be holding a reception for Richter on Wednesday, Oct. 9 from 5-7 p.m. at the Eagles in New Rockford.