NORFOLK, Neb - The City of Norfolk is celebrating the new winner of the 2025 LEAD award.

Norfolk’s first Finance Officer, Randy Gates, has been serving Norfolk since 1982.

Gates has been given this award for his Leadership, Excellence, Action, and Dedication in his role.

“Receiving the LEAD Award is a real honor. I’ve spent my career working to make a difference at the local level, and it means a lot to be recognized by the League,” Gates said, “ I’m proud of what the city has accomplished and I’m lucky to work with great people who care about making our community better every day."

The City of Norfolk has said that because of Gate’s dedication to his role the city has received multiple finance awards for over 30 years in a row.

“Randy has been the backbone of our city’s finances for over 40 years,” Mayor Shane Clausen said, “He’s the kind of person who works hard behind the scenes, always making sure things run smoothly—and he never looks for the spotlight. This award is a great way to recognize everything he’s done for Norfolk and the impact he’s had across Nebraska."

The LEAD award is given to a current municipal official by the League of Nebraska Municipalities.

This award has not been received since 2020.