City of Golden Valley staff gathered last week for the annual employee recognition event to celebrate employees for their service to the city and its residents. 

In addition to recognizing years of service milestones, the event featured the debut of two new award programs: the Together – Accountable – Better (TAB) Awards, and the Growing The Valley (GTV) Award. These awards reflect Golden Valley’s core values. 

Award Definitions 

• Together: Cultivating an inclusive environment where everyone can expect supportive leadership, mutual respect, trust, personal responsibility, open communication, and a sense of belonging.
• Accountable: Encouraging leadership at all levels, being consistent in actions and behaviors, providing and expecting clear direction, and recognizing how decisions impact others.
• Better: Setting high standards and achieving measurable success through a responsive, people-centered investment of resources, a focus on quality and compassion, providing a safe space for curiosity and innovation, and respecting a diversity of contributions.
• Growing The Valley: Recognizing employees who go above and beyond in their roles to make a citywide impact.

Award Winners 

Together: Melissa Croft, Deputy City Clerk
Croft builds connections across departments by making herself available through regular office hours and one-on-one support. Her approachable leadership, collaborative mindset, and commitment to inclusion help create a workplace where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued. 

Accountable: Danny Pacholke, Sergeant 
As leader of the Police Department’s training unit, Sgt Pacholke sets the tone for professionalism, consistency, and accountability. He ensures staff are prepared and supported while maintaining high standards. His clear communication, reliability, and dedication to his team reflect the essence of accountable leadership. 

Better: Alisa Shuster, Assistant Fire Chief 
Shuster leads with compassion, dedication, and a person-centered approach. She consistently goes beyond expectations to support her team and serve the community. Her respectful, collaborative leadership promotes quality service and inspires others to live out the City’s values. 

Growing the Valley: Brookview Golf Maintenance Team 
Brian Haley, Ryan Wigdahl, Jim Spreigl, Caleb Wagner, and their part-time crew demonstrate excellence through teamwork, innovation, and resilience, especially during a season of major weather challenges. Their focus on high standards, continuous improvement, and supporting each other sets a strong example of what it means to grow the valley together. 

Years Of Service Awards

Each year, Golden Valley proudly honors employees who reach significant milestones in their careers with the City. The Years of Service Awards recognize the dedication, commitment, and lasting impact of individuals who have contributed their time and talent over the years. Their continued service helps shape our organization and strengthens the community. 

35 Years Of Service

Al Lundstrum, Park Maintenance Supervisor 

25 Years Of Service

Ben Disch, Golf Operations Manager
Larry Ellestad, Street Maintenance Worker 

20 Years Of Service 

Marshall Beugen, Street/Vehicle Maintenance Superintendent
Matthew Preston, Fire Captain 

10 Years Of Service

Thomas Bloxom, Firefighter
Claire Huisman, Inspections & Development Assistant
Scott Johnson, Public Works Inspector
Jerald Jovanovich, Firefighter
Tim Kieffer, Public Works Director
Erin Nielsen, Administrative Assistant - Public Works
Charles Perkins, Street Maintenance Field Supervisor 

5 Years Of Service 

Bethany Brunsell, Fire Chief
Alyssa Doty, Server
Andrew Evenson, Patrol Officer
Amy Iverson, Server
Megan Lee, Restaurant & Banquet Staff Coordinator
Carrie Nelson, Engineering Assistant
Kevin Jarta, Firefighter/Inspector
Casey Johnson, Firefighter
Debra Koreen, Bartender
Chad Laforge, Firefighter
Uriel Medina Quevedo, Utilities Maintenance Worker
Artez Oneal, Utility Billing Specialist
Brandon Operana, Fire Lieutenant
Wende Pemrick, Bartender
Jessica Pexa, Information Technology Specialist
Theresa Schyma, City Clerk
Michael Winters, Restaurant & Banquet Staff Coordinator The City extends its appreciation to all staff members for their hard work and dedication!