Former Moorhead City Council Member Millie MacLeod Passes Away at 91

Former Moorhead City Council member Millie MacLeod has died at the age of 91. She passed away on October 17, 2023, in Temple Terrace, Florida, according to her obituary. MacLeod served on the Moorhead City Council from 1977 to 1997, making significant contributions during her two decades in office.

MacLeod’s tenure on the council was marked by her strong advocacy for city planning and economic development. Morrie Lanning, a former mayor who served alongside her, described her as a “very capable and thoughtful member of the City Council.” Lanning, who held office from 1974 to 2001, noted that MacLeod played a vital role in navigating complex annexation policies, particularly concerning the land surrounding the American Crystal Sugar plant in north Moorhead.

Initially, MacLeod had no intentions of running for office. According to an article from August 22, 1997, she was often approached by community members who speculated about her candidacy. Her husband, Robert MacLeod, encouraged her to consider running, stating it would be unwise to overlook the community support she had received. After winning the election against an incumbent in 1977, she represented Moorhead’s Ward 4 for five consecutive terms.

During her time on the council, MacLeod was instrumental in several key initiatives. She was a significant player in the city’s transition towards a city manager form of government, a structure that Moorhead continues to utilize. Her influence extended beyond local governance; she served with the League of Minnesota Cities, where she held positions as both vice president and president. Furthermore, MacLeod was a board member of the National League of Cities from 1992 to 1994.

MacLeod’s work was recognized through various accolades. In 1995, she received the C.C. Ludwig award, the highest honor bestowed by the League of Minnesota Cities on elected officials. The following year, she was honored with the YWCA Women of the Year award for her contributions to public service.

Lanning fondly remembered MacLeod not only for her professionalism but also for her personable nature. “She could be serious when she needed to be, but she could also have a good time, and that is a mark of a person who does it the right way,” he said.

A memorial service for Millie MacLeod is scheduled for June 19, 2026, at Cormorant Lutheran Church in Lake Park, Minnesota. Her legacy as a dedicated public servant and community leader will be remembered by many.