As we prepare to elect leaders at all levels of government this fall, the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Board of Directors has identified points we believe are important to a strong business community and a thriving Owatonna.
A Community Confident About Its Future
For more than 170 years, Owatonna has grown its economy, workforce, schools and quality of life because of innovative people willing to take risks, invest and work to make this a better place.
We are a community of doers—people who embrace challenges, make commitments and get things done.
Healthy communities debate difficult issues. Strong communities also recognize opportunities, celebrate progress and maintain confidence in their ability to grow and improve.
A Community That Welcomes Investment and Growth
Owatonna's continued success depends on people willing to invest here—local businesses expanding, entrepreneurs taking risks, developers creating new opportunities and employers bringing jobs and investment to our community.
That requires an environment where businesses, developers and entrepreneurs know their ideas will receive a fair, timely and predictable review and where responsible growth is welcomed.
Disciplined, Long-Term Financial Stewardship
We expect local government to work with its citizens to establish clear priorities, evaluate alternatives, consider the cumulative impact on taxpayers and demonstrate that major investments in public safety, infrastructure, facilities and services provide long-term value. The goal should not simply be spending less. It should be investing wisely.
A Strong Workforce Pipeline
The future of Owatonna's economy depends on our ability to develop, attract and retain talented people.
Our community branding initiative is one part of that effort—telling Owatonna's story and giving those of us who live and work here the tools to tell that story to others.
Just as important is developing the talent already here. Every Steele County student should graduate having had meaningful exposure to career opportunities available in our community, whether their next step is college, technical education, military service or directly entering the workforce.
Employers, schools and community partners all have a role in building that pipeline.
Housing, Infrastructure and Amenities That Support Growth
People don't choose a job without also choosing a community.
Owatonna needs housing across a range of price points, reliable infrastructure, childcare, transportation, recreation and quality-of-life amenities that allow employers to attract and retain workers and families.
These aren't separate from economic development. They are increasingly essential to it.
Local Governments That Work Together
Businesses aren't particularly concerned about which governmental entity "owns" an issue. They care whether the issue gets solved.
Owatonna's success requires the City of Owatonna, Steele County, Owatonna Public Schools and the business community to work collaboratively on the challenges and opportunities that cross jurisdictional lines.
We expect elected leaders to build productive relationships, seek common ground and work toward solutions—even when they disagree.
