WADENA — Wadena County Sheriff Michael Carr announced Wednesday, Jan. 7, that he would not seek a sixth term in office at the end of this year.
"We have made many positive changes over the years, and I am proud to say that this will be a true turnkey operation," Carr stated in a news release.
"This office is filled with some of the finest law enforcement professionals in central Minnesota — men and women who protect and serve the public and put themselves in harm’s way daily with honor, integrity and pride."
Carr's law enforcement career spans 32 years, with the last two decades spent as Wadena County sheriff.
"I have one full year remaining on this term, and I promise to finish with the same dedication and commitment that I have given throughout my 19 years as sheriff," he stated.
A longtime employee of the Wadena County Sheriff's Office, Bryan Savaloja, announced his intention to seek the seat on Thursday.
In his social media announcement, Savaloja said he's worked at nearly every level of the office over 19 years, including as a deputy, K-9 deputy, sergeant, jail administrator, 911 center supervisor and currently as a sergeant/investigator. He has also served as the deputy director of emergency management for 12 years.
"I am running for Sheriff because I believe Wadena County deserves experienced, steady leadership that values transparency, accountability, and strong relationships with the community," Savaloja stated.
"I believe in proactive, community-focused law enforcement that supports all staff members, protects our residents, and earns public trust through professionalism and fairness."
-
Contributed/Education MinnesotaIn the 2026 midterms, Minnesotans will vote on a constitutional amendment to increase the yearly allotment from the Permanent School Fund. For some, the measure is decades in the making. -
Contributed/Bridget Bennett / MinnPost / CatchLight Local / Report for AmericaBemidji State University will get $4.8 million for fiscal year 2028 and must create a financial recovery plan. -
Plus: Beginning farmers in Minnesota get funding help to build out their fledgling agricultural businesses. -
Contributed/Bridget Bennett via MinnPost /CatchLight Local / Report for AmericaOfficials call it a ‘stopgap’ measure that should help as they address a $31.5 million systemwide deficit. An internal report warned 10 years ago that Minnesota State could face multimillion dollar budget holes. -
Plus: Minnesota case underscores uphill climb for tribes adding clean energy.
-
Lorie ShaullThe agreement between the city and Pulsar Helium is the first step for the proposed facility that Pulsar says could kickstart a new advanced manufacturing industry in the state. -
Contributed/Center for Rural Affairs and Tribal Business News via Minnesota News ConnectionThe Public Utilities Commission directed Minnesota Valley to stop unlawful disconnection threats to the Upper Sioux Community over its behind-the-meter energy project. -
Family memories, farming education and Minnesota’s first “crannonball” make for a fruitful day at the Minnesota Cranberry Co.’s harvest.
-
Minnesotans across the state will have a constitutional amendment on their ballots asking to increase the yearly allotment from the Permanent School Fund. For some, the measure is 20 years in the making.
-
Plus: Beltrami County officials tour the under-construction jail facility slated to open in May 2027.
