Longtime Brainerd mayor, James Wallin, dies
Longtime Brainerd Mayor James Wallin, 73, died Saturday morning at his home.
Wallin had served as mayor since 1998, and was first elected to Brainerd's city council in 1977.
"I think I can speak on behalf of the full council and the citizens of Brainerd that we remain shocked and saddened by his passing," said City Administrator Jim Thoreen.
"In the short time I worked with James, I came to understand his graciousness, his complete devotion to public service and especially his calm and always pleasant demeanor."
U.S. Congressman Rick Nolan, whose district represents Brainerd, said in a statement that Wallin a true leader who devoted so much time and energy to making life better for the people he served.
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