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The City of Wyoming received the League of Minnesota Cities 2025 City of Excellence Award for this year’s “Successful Collaboration Among Local Governments” topical category The presentation was celebrated  at the League’s Annual Conference in Duluth.

Wyoming was honored for its “Age-Friendly Community Garden Project.”

The City of Wyoming partnered with Age-Friendly Minnesota, the Chisago County Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP), and M Health Fairview Wyoming to expand the community garden at M Health Fairview Lakes Medical Center. The project’s goal was to make gardening more accessible and inclusive—especially for older adults and individuals with disabilities. The expansion included adding fencing to a new 60-foot-by-150-foot area, installing two wheelchair-accessible garden beds, and incorporating four additional raised beds. By removing physical barriers, the city and its partners created a welcoming space that encourages all residents to engage in community gardening.

Planning and implementation involved city staff, health care professionals, and community volunteers who assessed local needs, designed accessible infrastructure, and secured funding. Construction began in May 2024 and was supported by a $25,500 collective investment from the City of Wyoming, Age-Friendly Minnesota, Chisago County SHIP, and the Lakes Volunteer Association.

The Age-Friendly Community Garden has already made a meaningful impact by promoting food security, intergenerational social engagement, and access to healthy activities. Local master gardeners and health care professionals provide ongoing education and support through gardening classes and workshops, ensuring the project’s sustainability for years to come.

The City of Excellence Awards are given annually by the League of Minnesota Cities in three population categories and one topical category. The awards recognize cities for outstanding programs or projects. Each winning city receives a plaque, a check for $1,000, and recognition in League publications and promotional activities throughout the coming year.

The League of Minnesota Cities is a membership organization dedicated to helping cities throughout Minnesota build quality communities through effective advocacy, expert analysis, trusted guidance, and collective action. The League serves over 830 member cities through advocacy, education and training, policy development, risk management, and other services.

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