Sen. Paul Anderson’s Bill Honoring Wayzata Police Officer Bill Mathews Passes Committee

Legislation honoring fallen Wayzata Police Officer Bill Mathews passed the Minnesota Senate Transportation Committee on Wednesday, March 7. The bill, chief-authored by Senator Paul Anderson, renames U.S. Highway 12 within the city limits of Wayzata “Officer Bill Mathews Memorial Highway”.

“Officer Bill Mathews was a servant leader dedicated to protecting and serving the city he loved,” said Senator Anderson. “He was a gentle giant whose life goal was to make a positive impact on others. Officer Mathews laid down his life doing his job, and I hope we can honor his service to his community with this dedication.”

Officer Mathews was struck and killed by an impaired and distracted driver while responding to a 911 call to clear debris from Highway 12 in Wayzata on September 8, 2017.  He is survived by his wife, Shawn, and their 7-year old son, Wyatt.

In attendance at the committee hearing with Senator Anderson were Hennepin County Sheriff Deputy Matt Hagen – President of the Minnesota Fraternal Order of the Police, Michael J. Risvold – Wayzata Chief of Police, Jeff Dahl – City Manager of Wayzata, and Ken Willcox – Mayor of Wayzata.

Both Chief Risvold and Mayor Willcox joined Senator Anderson in testifying during the hearing.

“Officer Mathews was one of the really good guys,” added Senator Anderson. “He was described as carrying a gun belt loaded with an olive branch and a jar of honey. The loss to his family is unbearable, and the impact of his death to his community is immeasurable. This bill allows us to honor a true hometown hero.”