FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission
Phone: (320) 235-8504
Email: [email protected]
MMDC Seeks Public Input on Two Major Topics
MMDC Seeks Public Input on Two Major Topics
September 29, 2021: The Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (MMDC) is a regional development organization, serving Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties. As part of MMDC’s effort to strengthen communities, by improving quality of life and increasing opportunities for prosperity, MMDC is currently seeking public input on two major plans.
MMDC is also working on a separate plan to identify the transportation needs of people with disabilities, older adults, and low-income residents, and then prioritize transportation services for funding and implementation. “The idea is to make sure our region’s non-drivers can get to work, take care of their errands, and participate in social events”, said MMDC Transportation Planner Kyle Ten Napel. “While we know our providers are working hard to provide the highest level of service possible with the resources they have, we also know it’s important to determine if there are any areas for improvement. We want to make sure all of our neighbors have a chance to fully participate in community life”, added Ten Napel.
The first plan is the MMDC Region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). This plan will provide our region with an economic development roadmap for the next five years. In addition to prioritizing work for MMDC’s Economic Development Team, the CEDS is the mechanism by which the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) provides Economic Development District designation. “This designation is important as it provides our stakeholders access to EDA-funding opportunities, including grants that can fund the infrastructure needed for business expansion”, said MMDC Economic Developer Michelle Marotzke. “When a community applies for a grant to support an industrial park, water treatment facility, or some other improvement, it’s important for us to be able to show that the project is supported by our CEDS”, Marotzke added. “It’s not often that residents are asked for input on economic development issues. However, right now we need to hear from everyone so we can have a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges folks are seeing in their communities”.
Residents are urged to visit MMDC’s website (MMRDC.org) and provide their input by completing brief economic development and transportation-focused surveys. Responses will be compiled with information received via community input sessions, focus groups, and other sources. Once plans are completed, they will be made available for further public comment. Appropriate revisions will then be made before the final plans are submitted.
To learn more about Mid-Minnesota Development Commission, visit MMRDC.org.