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."
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And: A McGregor gas station was fined by the state Pollution Control Agency; the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission was given a transportation award; and Red Lake County will defend its baseball title Monday. -
Contributed/Alyssa Chen / Minnesota ReformerThe state abruptly paused payment to thousands of care providers in May in a rush to meet a federal deadline. -
Contributed/Lakers Girls Golf Instagram PageAlmost 90 Northland students competed at the state golf tournament June 9-10, 2026, around the Twin Cities. -
Contributed/Brian DowThe number of detainees has not been confirmed. Bemidji police and Beltrami sheriff's deputies did not take part, leaders say. Some community members gathered to protest. -
And: A missing Alexandria woman found alive in mud puddle near Backus; a nature-based early learning center opens in Coleraine; and Brainerd boys and Detroit Lakes girls are state golf champions.
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Contributed/briandjan607 via FlickrThe Emergency Forest Order, which prohibited campfires and charcoal-fueled cookstoves, will be lifted on June 12, 2026. -
Contributed/Bemidji Fire DepartmentThe Bemidji Fire Department responded to the multi-family structure fire in the nearby city of Wilton on June 10, 2026. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEThe Paul Bunyan Playhouse is bringing back professional theater to the Historic Chief Theater for the first full season since 2023. -
Erin Bowman/KAXEChildren at the nature-based Roots and Wings Early Learning Center in southern Coleraine typically spend five to six hours outside each day on the 25-acre campus. -
Contributed/Minnesota Chippewa TribeMembers of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe bands cast ballots for secretary-treasurers and tribal council representatives on June 9, 2026.
