City of Wadena -

The City of Wadena is aware of a nationwide phishing scam where criminals impersonate local planning and zoning officials to steal money. They use real permit details from public records to make emails look legitimate.

If you have a planning, zoning, or building permit application:
- Be cautious of unexpected emails asking you to pay permit fees.
- Do not pay by wire transfer, peer‑to‑peer apps, or cryptocurrency.
- Do not click links or open attachments if you are unsure.
- Always verify payment requests by contacting City Hall directly using information on the City of Wadena website, not the contact details in the email.

If you receive a suspicious message, do not respond or send money. Contact the City of Wadena Planning & Zoning office and local law enforcement to report it.

High Wind Warning for Wadena County

A high wind warning is in effect for Wadena County starting tonight going through tomorrow morning. Strong winds have the chance to cause tree damage and potential outages. Our crews are monitoring the storm, and they will be ready to respond should there be any outages.

If your power goes out, please report it by calling 218-631-7600. For emergencies, call 911.

From sunrise to sunset, at Wadena Utilities, we work hard behind the scenes to provide reliable and affordable energy to power your life! Matter of fact, Wadena is home to some of the lowest power rates in the state of MN! That’s #PublicPower!

With warmer weather right around the corner, it’s time to check on your outdoor electrical systems. Winter weather can take a toll on it, so look for frayed wires, damaged outlets or loose connections. Test your GFCI outlets to make sure they’re working properly, especially in areas exposed to moisture. If breakers are tripping often, your panel may need attention.️ A few simple checks now can help prevent bigger problems later!
#SafetyTips

We want to hear your voice Wadena!

Next Tuesday, March 17th (St. Patty's Day) at 5:30pm will be part three of our community visioning sessions to develop our Comprehensive Plan! We will be planning for the future of our community alongside the Region Five Development Commission. We would love to see you there!

Every perspective matters, every idea counts. Come be part of something important for the future of Wadena!

Time to spring forward with #PublicPower as Daylight Saving Time begins tomorrow!

We may lose an hour of sleep, but we gain longer and brighter evenings! As you set your clocks forward, now is a good time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors!

Tax season brings enough stress without adding scammers to the mix. Criminals ramp up their attacks early in the year, so take steps now to protect yourself. It’s best to file as early as possible to reduce the risk of identity theft. Filing electronically provides secure encryption to protect your personal information, and you will receive an electronic acknowledgment usually within 24 hours of your return being accepted. #CyberSecurityTips

Did you know the city has an app? You can keep up to date on all things Wadena, right in your pocket!

Get live feed notifications, news updates, information on road projects, community events, access council agendas, minutes and much more!

Go to your respective app store and search "City of Wadena". The app with the W icon is us! Download and turn notifications on!

The Chamber is teaming up with local businesses to promote the June Jubilee Raffle, where community members can buy $20 tickets for a chance to win $10,000 while also supporting Chamber recognition and business advertising!

For a current list of participating ticket sellers and details on how to buy, people are directed to the June Jubilee Raffle page: https://www.wadenachamber.com/o/wcc/page/june-jubilee-raffle

Chamber members can contact Tina to get their own customized poster and social media graphics so they can market both the tickets and their business, everyone is encouraged to like, share, and follow to spread the word. Let's make June Jubilee 2026 the best yet!

Ready...Set...APPLY NOW! MRES is offering scholarships for high school seniors entering education programs related to the energy industry AND for lineworkers! If you or your child is eying a field in the energy industry, you should apply!

Deadline to Apply: March 13th, 2026.

Link to application: https://www.mrenergy.com/services/scholarships

Did you know rebates are available through Bright Energy Solutions and the City of Wadena?

✅Switch to qualifying high‑efficiency equipment and you may receive cash back, lower your monthly energy use, and make your home or business more comfortable.
❓Contact Wadena municipal utilities or visit our website to see current rebate offerings, eligibility, and how to apply.
💡Available for commercial and residential

Link to page: https://www.wadena.org/o/cw/page/utilities-department

Behind every light turned on is a local crew, a familiar face, a neighbor who cares. We’re grateful for our dedicated local staff and crews who keep the power on through every season. Because of them, our community can always count on #PublicPower for a brighter year ahead.

#EmpoweringOurCommunity

Session 3 of Wadena's Community Visioning Series is coming up — and we want to hear from MORE of you!

Join us on March 17th (St. Patty's Day) at 5:30 PM at the Maslowski Wellness Center as we continue planning for the future of our community alongside the Region Five Development Commission.

Every perspective matters, every idea counts. Come be part of something important for the future of Wadena!

Did you know Pinewood Estates has an adjacent 17 acre nature preserve and walking trails? It's called the Folkestad Nature Park! It is open to the public! There are multiple winding trails throughout, set with benches along the way to rest and take in the natural beauty!

Make a plan to stop out there when the weather cooperates! Head out to Homecrest Outdoor Living and turn on 7th St SE. The park is right where 7th St SE begins to curve to the West.

Imagine turning $20 into $10,000 🤩! The Chamber’s June Jubilee Raffle Giveaway is on sale now, with the $10,000 drawing happening June 13! Tickets ($20 each) are available through the Wadena Chamber, Chamber board members, participating businesses, or from Tina Bartels or Cindy Hockert. Good luck—and thank you for supporting local!

The City of Wadena would like to hear your voice! March 17th at 5:30pm at the MAS will be the third part of our community visioning sessions.

If you have not come to prior meetings: please feel free to come to this one! We will be discussing the future of Wadena, exploring ideas, and setting goals as a community. We want to hear your voice! This is an important step for the city's comprehensive plan.

Do you have thoughts or ideas on housing, zoning, parks, business, infrastructure, etc? Come out to the MAS on St. Patty's day to let your thoughts be heard by city staff and council!

UPDATE: Power has been restored to the affected properties. Thank you!

The City is aware of a power outage in the north part of town. Our crews are actively working to restore power to the affected locations. Please stay tuned to our website/social media pages for updates.

Thinking about upgrading your lighting, HVAC, or other equipment? 💡
Wadena Utilities customers can qualify for cash rebates through the Bright Energy Solutions® program when they install eligible high‑efficiency equipment at their home or business.
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These rebates help:
Lower your upfront project costs
Cut your monthly electric bill
Use our community’s energy resources more wisely
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Get started and see what you qualify for:
Business rebate forms: https://www.brightenergysolutions.com/members/wadena-utilities-department?rebates=business
Residential rebate forms: https://www.brightenergysolutions.com/members/wadena-utilities-department?rebates=residential
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