A policy is a corporate direction that is formally adopted by Council resolution. Enacting policies provides a framework for decision making ensuring consistency throughout the municipality. 

Policies are laws, subject to municipal bylaws and Provincial and Federal law. The supporting legislation for such policy development is the The Municipalities Act which provides Council the authority to develop and evaluate the policies and programs of a municipality.

In comparison to a bylaw, which requires three readings of Council to pass or change, a policy may be passed and amended by a single resolution of Council. A policy may not exist in direct contradiction of any municipal bylaw or other law, but may exist to provide a framework and direction for regulation and implementation of those laws.

The Town of Wadena's Council approved policies are listed below.