TOWER— Victoria Ranua will remain as city clerk-treasurer here after declining an offer from the Department of Natural Resources to become the new assistant manager at the Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park. Ranua’s decision to forgo the higher-paying position was a surprise that relieved many city officials.
“I’m relieved and pleased that Victoria has decided to continue with the city,” said council member and acting mayor Rachel Beldo. “I am grateful for the hard work she has done and I believe she will continue to help get the city on the right track.”
Ranua was reluctant to talk about her decision but acknowledged that she feels her abilities can help build a better foundation for the city of Tower by continuing her efforts to incorporate best practices into city management. She said she was also moved by the disappointment that many at the city had expressed when they heard she was considering leaving her post for the state job.
Ranua assumed the clerk-treasurer position in October in the wake of the dismissal of former clerk-treasurer Linda Keith. She came aboard with the city in organizational chaos and just as project management errors by the former administration had put the city in a deep financial hole. She also faced personnel struggles, particularly with then-ambulance director and fire chief Steve Altenburg, who was frequently disruptive at city hall.
Despite the situation she inherited, Ranua has made considerable progress on improving financial transparency, ensuring that the city council is better informed on the issues they need to address, and assuring legal compliance.
“I’m so happy she’s staying. She’s really helped us move toward greater efficiency, better relations with the public, and a stronger organization,” said council member Mary Shedd.
“I would have really hated to lose her since she brings so many skills to the job.”