Dave Rooney has reached half-way around the world to help people in need. From a Peace Corps volunteer in the 1960s to Dakota County as the Director of Community Services since 1988, he has worked to assure that child maltreatment is prevented, children flourish with the support of their families and arrive at school ready to learn, and communities are safe and their residents can thrive. From the birth of Community Corrections Act in the 1970s to the implementation of innovations in integrated service delivery of services in this decade, Dave’s vision, passion, and ability as an innovator and catalyst for action have shown as a shining beacon that enlightens the best of County government service. His many credits include work towards the Community Corrections Act, leadership for the development of Dakota Healthy Families and the Metro Alliance for Healthy Families, child protective service structured decision-making (SDM), and the continuum of response for Dakota County children and families. He has served in leadership positions for County organizations and on committees, seeking new directions for better service and succeeding with humility, humor, and honesty. Dave exemplifies the values – innovation, leadership, and exceptional service – that the Outstanding Service Award recognizes.

On the morning of February 18, 2009, a shot rang out that stopped a small community in its tracks. Officer Christopher Dewey was shot while responding to a call. The Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Department’s quick response under the direction of Sheriff Doug Krier worked quickly to evacuate the neighborhood and lock-down schools. Law enforcement agencies from the surrounding area where on the scene almost immediately. Sheriff Doug Krier did a wonderful job of delegating, leading and responding to the scene, as well as communicating with State agencies who gave direction and information to be distributed to the media and the public. The staff in the sheriff’s department went over and above to coordinate communications through the dispatch. All staff from law enforcement officers to clerical took on whatever task was necessary, off duty staff came in to help. The impact of having one of their own shot was obviously very traumatic, but they handled it with professionalism and integrity. The Mahnomen County Board feels that Sheriff Doug Krier exhibited exceptional leadership skills in this very tragic situation. We also feel it was one of those situations where it takes a "team" and our Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Department definitely proved themselves capable. Officer Dewey is currently recovering in a rehabilitation facility in Denver.

Nominated by the Stearns County Board of Commissioners for his 21-years of outstanding leadership, dedication and service to Stearns County, Rindelaub is no stranger to government. From his early career of teaching his favorite subjects—government and history—to high school students, to serving as a fiscal analyst to the Wisconsin State Senate’s Joint Finance Committee, then becoming Isanti County Coordinator, George has demonstrated he is well suited for the task of being an Administrator in the State’s 7th largest county, Stearns. Throughout his tenure with Stearns County, George has consistently promoted a philosophy of innovation throughout the organization and has fostered numerous efficiencies and streamlined services. The County’s 1992 Administrative Study that resulted in the restructuring of the former Social Services, Court Services and Public Health Departments into a single department, Human Services, is but one example. In addition, George has led Stearns County through numerous capital improvement projects, and his sound financial guidance has enabled the County to be positioned to meet today’s economic challenges. George is well known for his ability to work collaboratively and to be a team player. His philosophy for managing, his common-sense and his loyal, unpretentious service make him truly worthy of this award.