| News Release November 4, 2026 LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR TO PRESENT AWARD FOR LEADERSHIP IN MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATION Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville will present the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Leadership in Municipal Administration to the Town of Stonewall’s chief administrative officer, Wally Melnyk, at an invitation-only ceremony at Government House on Thursday, Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. Melnyk is recognized for his outstanding leadership, integrity and longstanding commitment to municipal public service. Throughout a career spanning more than three decades, including over 25 years serving Russell before moving to Stonewall, Melnyk has guided municipalities through significant change, including municipal amalgamation and evolving financial reporting requirements. His leadership reflects strong financial stewardship, thoughtful long-term planning and a commitment to accountable, responsive local government. A past president and former Manitoba Municipal Administrators Association (MMA) board member, Melnyk contributed generously to the association through his leadership, committee service and support for fellow members. He played a key role in establishing mandatory professional development requirements for municipal administrators, strengthening professional standards across Manitoba. As an instructor in the MMA’s municipal administration program and a respected facilitator and mentor, Melnyk continues to support the development of current and future municipal leaders. The Lieutenant-Governor’s Award for Leadership in Municipal Administration is one of the highest honours bestowed upon a municipal administrator in Manitoba. This prestigious award recognizes visionary leaders whose innovation, integrity and dedication have advanced municipal leadership and strengthened communities across the province. It celebrates individuals whose outstanding leadership and service have made a lasting impact on the lives of Manitobans. For further information on this award and others given to worthy individuals by the lieutenant-governor of Manitoba, visit the lieutenant-governor’s website at www.manitobalg.ca. – 30 – Contact: Kate Gameiro, Office of the Lieutenant Governor, 204-945-2752 Adrienne Bestland, Executive Director, MMA, 204-255-4883 |