Austin missed the top honor for Minnesota Monthly’s “Best Minnesota Town,” with Bemidji earning the inaugural title. Austin had been a finalist in the competition with Owatonna, Bemidji, Waconia and Walker. The top selection was made Nov. 30.

Austin was part of the finalist pool after being selected on the strength of online voting, a panel of community representatives and the magazine’s editorial team.  Bemidji will receive $50,000 for marketing purposes, and will also have a party thrown in its honor, among other prizes.