Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy: Opportunity for Public Review and Comment
Through October 23, all residents of Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties are encouraged to review the latest draft of the Mid-Minnesota Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The CEDS can be thought of as a 5-year economic development roadmap for our four-county area. It is intended to help regional partners work toward a stronger, more resilient, and more vibrant economy. It is also the mechanism by which our region receives designation as an Economic Development District. This is important, as district designation is the first hurdle for stakeholders interested in pursuing federal Economic Development Administration grants for commerce supporting projects. MMDC must also verify that the application-related project is in harmony with the approved CEDS.
Recently, several EDA grants have been approved for our region. In total, almost $10 million has been awarded to support:
- The redevelopment of an important Renville County roadway, adjacent to Southern MN Beet Sugar Cooperative, Forsman Farms, and Transystems (Co. Rd. 21)
- Improvements to Willmar’s industrial park, and
- The construction of a new electrician training facility, on Ridgewater College’s Hutchinson campus.
Please consider reading our updated CEDS. You may then comment and submit your questions via email to Eric.Day@mmrdc.org. After the 30-day public comment period has concluded, input will be incorporated as appropriate. The updated CEDS document will be brought forward for approval and adoption at MMDC’s December Commission meeting. Once adopted, it will be submitted to the U.S. EDA for their approval.
