The Minnetonka City Council on Nov. 24 held a formal recognition for Mayor Brad Wearsome, who is leaving office after more than two decades of elected service. City Manager Mike Funk introduced the tribute and Ward 2 Councilmember and mayor-elect Rebecca Schack read an extended staff report that outlined Wearsome's contributions to city planning, trail funding and public-safety initiatives.

State and regional officials joined the council to praise Wearsome's tenure. Senator Anne Johnson Stewart said Wearsome had been a strong regional partner and credited him with work on Highway 7 and coordination among West Metro mayors. Hennepin County Commissioner Heather Edelson presented a county award and described a case where Wearsome helped a student secure housing, calling his leadership "authentic and dedicated." Luke Fisher of the League of Minnesota Cities praised Wearsome's pandemic-era leadership and mentorship to local officials.

The staff report recounted a long list of city projects and programs Wearsome supported, including adoption of franchise fees used to accelerate trail construction, development of the public-safety master plan, support for in-house legal and equity-focused programs, and partnerships that leveraged county and state funds. Staff said the trail program supported improvements on Plymouth Road, Minnetonka Boulevard and other corridors; it also referenced public-safety investments such as a new facility and first-responder drone program. Speakers repeatedly emphasized Wearsome's mentoring role and his focus on collaboration.

In brief remarks, Wearsome thanked staff, council members and residents and reflected on city government as a "people business," noting the importance of volunteers and municipal staff. The event included brief presentations by area mayors and state lawmakers and a short recess for photographs before the council resumed its regular agenda.

The recognition will be followed by an open house for the mayor on Dec. 16; staff said the event will be open to the public with a formal presentation at 4 p.m.