Press Release Archives - Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission Central MN Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 18:44:55 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 /wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­-M-Icon-150x136.png Press Release Archives - Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission 32 32 Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Honored with 2026 Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organization /blog/mid-minnesota-development-commission-honored-with-2026-impact-award-from-the-national-association-of-development-organization/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mid-minnesota-development-commission-honored-with-2026-impact-award-from-the-national-association-of-development-organization Mon, 20 Jul 2026 18:44:51 +0000 /?p=2617 July 2026 – Willmar-based Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) was recently recognized with a 2026 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for their Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Rideshare Support Project. This Willmar Area Community Foundation-supported project established a meaningful level of rideshare service in Kandiyohi County. The project involved the recruitment of two […]

The post Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Honored with 2026 Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organization appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>

July 2026 – Willmar-based Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) was recently recognized with a 2026 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for their Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Rideshare Support Project. This Willmar Area Community Foundation-supported project established a meaningful level of rideshare service in Kandiyohi County.

The project involved the recruitment of two rideshare drivers. Each earned a tapered start-up subsidy for 26 weeks in exchange for providing at least 30 hours of local rideshare service. To improve transportation access during times when public transit was less available, the period of focus included late afternoon, evening, and weekend hours. The new-to-the-area rideshare service made it possible for riders to more easily travel to destinations related to employment, leisure, and commerce.

“Our region has been home to a handful of Uber and Lyft drivers for a while but, until our Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Rideshare Support Project, these drivers would typically travel to St. Cloud or the Twin Cities Metro Area to provide their services,” said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Transportation Resource Coordinator Terry Smith. The fact of the matter is, without a critical mass of regular customers, they couldn’t make a go of rideshare service locally. “Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s goal was to help these drivers as they developed a sustaining customer base.”

Prior to project onset, Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s busiest participating driver reported he normally averaged eight local rideshare fares per month. Through this project, since late July 2025, over 1,800 local rides have been tallied, and this number continues to grow. Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ hopes to support the replication of this project in other more rural areas and is happy to share their process and findings with other communities and organizations.

Presented annually, the NADO Impact Awards honor regional development organizations and their partners for strengthening communities, building regional resilience, and enhancing local economies through creative approaches to economic and community development. NADO is a Washington, DC-based membership association of regional development organizations that promotes programs and policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies.

This year’s cohort included 94 impactful projects led by 58 organizations across 20 states. These award-winning efforts will be recognized during NADO’s 2026 Annual Training Conference, to be held this coming October in Reno, Nevada. All selected projects are featured in an interactive StoryMap that showcases summaries, images, and key partners. The map is available at https://www.nado.org/2026-impact-award-recipients/.

“Each year, the Impact Awards celebrate the remarkable work being done by regional development organizations to strengthen communities and improve quality of life,” said 2025-2026 NADO President Matthew Dolge, Executive Director of the Piedmont Triad Regional Council in North Carolina. “This year’s honorees demonstrate how strategic leadership, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to progress can create meaningful and lasting benefits across the country.”

“Mid-Minnesota Development Commission is thrilled to receive this recognition, and we look forward to learning more about the other awarded projects. We’re honored to be in excellent company,” said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Executive Director Eric Day.

The Impact Awards are presented in memory of Aliceann Wohlbruck, NADO’s first executive director, who was a lifelong advocate for regional solutions and rural economic development. For more information, contact Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Transportation Resource Coordinator Terry Smith at (320) 235-8504 or Terry.Smith@mmrdc.org.

About Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) is an independent regional development commission, that coordinates economic and community planning and development across Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties. It is governed by a group of 27 elected officials and subject matter experts from across the four-county region. Learn more about Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ at MMRDC.org.

About NADO

The National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) promotes public policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through the regional strategies, coordination efforts, and program expertise of the nation’s regional development organizations. Learn more about NADO at www.nado.org

The post Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Honored with 2026 Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organization appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives a 2026 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations /press-release/mid-minnesota-development-commission-receives-a-2026-excellence-in-regional-transportation-award-from-the-national-association-of-development-organizations/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mid-minnesota-development-commission-receives-a-2026-excellence-in-regional-transportation-award-from-the-national-association-of-development-organizations Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:23:52 +0000 /?p=2587 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Terry Smith, Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Transportation Resource Coordinator (320) 235-8504 / Terry.Smith@mmrdc.org Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives a 2026 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations Washington, DC, [June 22, 2026] – Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­), the regional development commission serving Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties, has been […]

The post Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives a 2026 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Terry Smith, Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Transportation Resource Coordinator

(320) 235-8504 / Terry.Smith@mmrdc.org

Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives a 2026 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations

Washington, DC, [June 22, 2026] – Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­), the regional development commission serving Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties, has been awarded a 2026 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for their Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Rideshare Support Project. This project, supported by a $20,000 grant from the Willmar Area Community Foundation, established a meaningful level of rideshare service in Kandiyohi County.

Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s rideshare project involved the recruitment of two rideshare drivers. Each earned a tapered start-up subsidy for 26 weeks in exchange for providing at least 30 hours of local rideshare service. To improve transportation access during times when public transit was less available, only the hours occurring after 2:00 p.m. on weekdays were counted, along with any hours of operation during weekends and holidays.

“Our region has been home to a handful of Uber and Lyft drivers for a while but, until our Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Rideshare Support Project, these drivers would typically travel to St. Cloud or the Twin Cities Metro Area to provide their services,” said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Transportation Resource Coordinator Terry Smith. The fact of the matter is, without a critical mass of regular customers, they couldn’t make a go of rideshare service locally. “Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s goal was to help these drivers develop a sustaining customer base.”

Prior to project onset, Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s busiest participating driver reported he normally averaged eight local rideshare fares per month. Through this project, since late July 2025, over 1,700 local rides have been tallied, and this number continues to grow. Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ hopes to support the replication of this project in other more rural areas of the country and is happy to share their process and findings with other communities and organizations.

NADO is a Washington, DC-based association that promotes programs and policies to strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through regional cooperation, program delivery, and comprehensive strategies. The Excellence in Regional Transportation Awards showcase organizations for noteworthy projects and practices in rural and small metropolitan transportation planning, program delivery, and special initiatives. Award winners will receive national recognition during the 2026 National Regional Transportation Conference in Atlanta, GA this July 20-22.

“The Excellence in Regional Transportation Awards program showcases effective and creative transportation initiatives that improve accessibility, mobility, safety, and quality of life in regions around the United States,” shared current NADO President and Executive Director of Piedmont Triad Regional Council Matthew Dolge. “Programs and projects like Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s Rideshare Support Project foster community and economic connections and promote effective transportation networks.”

For more information about the award-winning project, contact Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Transportation Resource Coordinator Terry Smith at (320) 235-8504 or Terry.Smith@mmrdc.org

Founded in 1967, the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) provides advocacy, education, networking, and research for a national network of over 500 regional development organizations. NADO members provide professional, programmatic, and technical assistance to over 2,300 counties and 15,000 municipalities.

The post Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives a 2026 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives Two National Association of Development Organizations 2024 Impact Awards /press-release/mid-minnesota-development-commission-receives-two-national-association-of-development-organizations-2024-impact-awards/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mid-minnesota-development-commission-receives-two-national-association-of-development-organizations-2024-impact-awards Fri, 25 Oct 2024 17:57:22 +0000 /?p=2272 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Katie Allison Communications Manager kallison@nado.org Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives TwoNational Association of Development Organizations 2024 Impact Awards Washington, DC, October 24, 2024 – Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­), which serves Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties, has received two 2024 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Awards from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) […]

The post Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives Two National Association of Development Organizations 2024 Impact Awards appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Katie Allison

Communications Manager

kallison@nado.org

Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives Two
National Association of Development Organizations 2024 Impact Awards

Washington, DC, October 24, 2024 – Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­), which serves Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties, has received two 2024 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Awards from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for their Fare-Free Transit Pilot and Fraud Awareness & Prevention Project.

The Fare-Free Transit Pilot, made possible with generous support from the Willmar Area Community Foundation and with terrific collaboration from Central Community Transit, provided transit bus service, without fare, to riders who boarded and departed the bus at established stops along the community’s bus route, reducing cost barriers and creating efficiencies by encouraging more to use the route, rather than dial-a-ride service.

Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s Fraud Awareness & Prevention Project, made possible with substantial financial support from the Southwest Initiative Foundation, and in cooperation with local law enforcement and the Minnesota River Area Agency on Aging, included the development of materials and workshops to educate the Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ region’s older residents and those who serve them, on the evolving tactics criminals are using to con people out of their savings. An abbreviated online recording of the workshop is available at mmrdc.org.

NADO is a Washington, DC-based membership association of regional development organizations that promotes programs and policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through regional cooperation, program delivery, and comprehensive strategies. The Impact Awards program recognizes regional development organizations and their partners for improving the economic and community competitiveness of our nation’s regions and local communities. 

Award-winning projects were recognized during NADO’s 2024 Annual Training Conference held in New Orleans, LA on October 21 – 24. The 2024 class of award recipients consists of 98 projects from 64 organizations spanning 21 states. These projects are presented in an interactive story map developed by NADO that includes project summaries, partners, and images. The map is available online at .

“NADO’s Impact Awards program offers an opportunity each year to celebrate the meaningful contributions our members make in the regions they serve,” said 2023-2024 NADO President Chris Brown. “This year’s awardees demonstrate the broad spectrum of services provided by regional development organizations. We thank our members for continuing to do this important work that helps build strong, vibrant, and resilient communities.”

The NADO Impact Awards are presented in honor of the late Aliceann Wohlbruck, who served as NADO’s first executive director for 24 years as a tireless champion for regional approaches to economic development in rural communities.

For more information about these award-winning projects, contact Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Executive Director Eric Day at Eric.Day@mmrdc.org.

About NADO

The National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) promotes public policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through the regional strategies, coordination efforts, and program expertise of the nation’s regional development organizations. Learn more about NADO at .

The post Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Receives Two National Association of Development Organizations 2024 Impact Awards appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
Blake Barnard Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission /news/blake-barnard-joins-mid-minnesota-development-commission/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=blake-barnard-joins-mid-minnesota-development-commission Mon, 24 Jun 2024 20:22:57 +0000 /?p=2193 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Phone: (320) 235-8504 Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org Blake Barnard Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Now Serving as Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s New Transportation & Community Planner Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ is pleased to welcome Blake Barnard to the regional development team. Barnard will apply his skills and experience as the organization’s new Transportation & Community […]

The post Blake Barnard Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Phone: (320) 235-8504

Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org

Blake Barnard Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Now Serving as Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s New Transportation & Community Planner

Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ is pleased to welcome Blake Barnard to the regional development team. Barnard will apply his skills and experience as the organization’s new Transportation & Community Planner. “Blake has a natural curiosity and a knack for writing, both of which will serve him well in the planning role,” said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Executive Director Eric Day. “He is going to really come into his own at Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­, as he helps our communities plan for thoughtful development”

Much of Barnard’s work will center on a longstanding MnDOT grant, through which Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ provides technical assistance for the planning and prioritization of various regional transportation projects. He will also lead and support other planning projects to help Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s communities ensure health, safety, sustainable growth, and a high standard of living. Prior to joining Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­, Barnard enjoyed success in estimating and project management roles in the manufacturing industry. He also brings business ownership and management experience and plans to apply this private sector lens to his public planning efforts.

Barnard resides with his wife and three children in Hutchinson, MN. In his free time, Blake enjoys running, volunteering, and organizing a local chess club.

To learn more about Mid-Minnesota Development Commission, visit MMRDC.org.

The post Blake Barnard Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
Mike Nicholas Appointed to Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Team /blog/mike-nicholas-appointed-to-mmdc-economic-development-team/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mike-nicholas-appointed-to-mmdc-economic-development-team Thu, 23 May 2024 20:20:40 +0000 /?p=2192 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Phone: (320) 235-8504 Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org Mike Nicholas Appointed to Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Team May 2024:  Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) is proud to announce the appointment of Mike Nicholas as the organization’s new Economic Developer. Nicholas, who has been serving as the Transportation and Community Planner since […]

The post Mike Nicholas Appointed to Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Team appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Phone: (320) 235-8504

Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org

Mike Nicholas Appointed to Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Team

May 2024:  Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) is proud to announce the appointment of Mike Nicholas as the organization’s new Economic Developer. Nicholas, who has been serving as the Transportation and Community Planner since September of 2023, will transition into his new role effective immediately and will join Economic Developer Nate Reuss to support economic development initiatives.

Nicholas brings a fresh perspective to the economic development sector. His dedication to the region and his understanding of the local communities’ needs makes him an ideal fit for this position.

“Mike’s expertise in planning and community development, combined with his passion for economic growth, align perfectly with the Commission’s goals,” said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Executive Director Eric Day. “We are confident that Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ will continue to thrive and bring new opportunities and foster continued growth in the region.”

In his new role, Nicholas will focus on supporting local businesses, and implementing strategies to enhance the economic vitality of the Mid Minnesota area. He will also assist stakeholders with grant applications, tackle issues such as housing and workforce development, and assist with the management of Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s three revolving loan funds. “I am honored to take on this new challenge and eager to contribute to the economic prosperity of our communities,” said Nicholas. “I look forward to collaborating with Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s partners to build an even more vibrant and resilient regional economy.”

Prior to joining Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­, Mike enjoyed a successful career in the manufacturing industry, with roles spanning the gamut of production, maintenance, sales analysis, and leadership. He has also gained experience as a member of three separate city planning commissions, including the City of Benson’s Planning Commission, on which he currently sits. Additionally, Mike is a veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served as an Electronic Warfare/Signal Intelligence Voice Interceptor (Russian) and Assistant Chief Operator. Mike holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Augsburg University and a Master of Public Affairs degree from the University of Minnesota.

Mike resides with his wife and college-age son, in Benson, MN. In his free time, Mike enjoys spending time with friends and loved ones, biking, and going for drives in his family’s 1972 Plymouth Duster.

To learn more about Mid-Minnesota Development Commission, visit MMRDC.org

The post Mike Nicholas Appointed to Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Team appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
Carol Lundgren Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission /news/carol-lundgren-joins-mid-minnesota-development-commission/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=carol-lundgren-joins-mid-minnesota-development-commission Tue, 13 Feb 2024 21:26:37 +0000 /?p=2195 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Phone: (320) 235-8504 Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org Carol Lundgren Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Will Serve as the Organization’s New Regional Development & Grant Specialist March 2024:  Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) is pleased to welcome Carol Lundgren to the regional development team. Lundgren will apply her skills and experience […]

The post Carol Lundgren Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Phone: (320) 235-8504

Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org

Carol Lundgren Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Will Serve as the Organization’s New Regional Development & Grant Specialist

March 2024:  Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) is pleased to welcome Carol Lundgren to the regional development team. Lundgren will apply her skills and experience as Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s first ever Regional Development & Grant Specialist. In this role she’ll assist regional stakeholders interested in pursuing funding for, among other things, clean energy solutions. She’ll also assist the organization and region by leading and assisting with various community and regional planning projects, environmental and otherwise.

“Energy and environment is a newer space for Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­. I’m excited to have Carol aboard to help lead the way. I anticipate that her experience, both environmental and grant-related, coupled with her positive attitude and her internal drive will serve our communities well,” said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Executive Director Eric Day.

Much of Lundgren’s work will be funded by a new Minnesota Department of Commerce administered Local Grand Development Assistance Program grant. The intent of this funding is to provide grant research, writing, and administrative services to those eligible for clean energy funding made possible by the federal Inflation Reduction and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Acts (IRA & IIJA). Lundgren will also help these applicants access Statewide Competitiveness Fund dollars that were set aside by the State of Minnesota in 2023 to assist applicants with the typically required non-federal financial match. Those interested in learning more about this new initiative should contact Lundgren at Carol.Lundgren@mmrdc.org or (320) 235-8504.

Prior to joining Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­, Lundgren gained experience as a Stormwater Best Management Practice Specialist for the Capitol Region Watershed District. She also worked in a number of positions for the Eden Prairie Community, including several years as their Sustainability Coordinator, during which time she, among other things, executed an energy action plan to increase participation in renewable energy programs and helped the city to achieve SolSmart Gold designation.

Lundgren holds a Bachelor of Environmental Planning degree from the University of Minnesota and will complete her Master of Natural Science and Environmental Education degree at Hamline University in 2024.

To learn more about Mid-Minnesota Development Commission, visit MMRDC.org

The post Carol Lundgren Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
Mike Nicholas Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission /press-release/mike-nicholas-joins-mid-minnesota-development-commission/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mike-nicholas-joins-mid-minnesota-development-commission Wed, 20 Sep 2023 16:00:47 +0000 /?p=2050 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Phone: (320) 235-8504 Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org Mike Nicholas Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Will Serve as the Organization’s New Transportation & Community Planner September 2023:  Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) is pleased to welcome Mike Nicholas to the regional development team. Nicholas will apply his skills and experience as […]

The post Mike Nicholas Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Phone: (320) 235-8504

Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org

Mike Nicholas Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Will Serve as the Organization’s New Transportation & Community Planner

September 2023:  Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) is pleased to welcome Mike Nicholas to the regional development team. Nicholas will apply his skills and experience as Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s Transportation & Community Planner. “It’s obvious that Mike [Nicholas] is a customer-focused joiner”, said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Executive Director Eric Day. “I have every confidence that he’s going to serve our region well by working with our communities to ensure they’re well-positioned for thoughtful development, especially in the transportation realm.”

Much of Mike’s work will center on a longstanding Minnesota Department of Transportation grant, through which Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ provides technical assistance for the planning and prioritization of various transportation projects in the Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ region (Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties). However, he will also be involved with other planning projects to help Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s communities ensure health, safety, a high standard of living, and sustainable growth. In the near term, this will include leading a new Active Living Plan in the Buffalo Lake community. He’ll be working with local individuals to develop a “roadmap” (pun intended) that will help the community ensure physical activities, such as walking and biking, can be incorporated into everyday living. “I’m excited for this project and for my new role at Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€ť, said Nicholas. Prior to joining Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­, Mike enjoyed a successful career in the manufacturing industry, with roles spanning the gamut of production, maintenance, sales,

analysis, and leadership. He has also gained experience as a member of three separate city planning commissions, including the City of Benson’s Planning Commission, on which he currently sits. Additionally, Mike is a veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served as an Electronic Warfare/Signal Intelligence Voice Interceptor (Russian) and Assistant Chief Operator. Mike holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Augsburg University and a Master of Public Affairs degree from the University of Minnesota.

Mike resides with his wife and college-age son, in Benson, MN. In his free time, Mike enjoys spending time with friends and loved ones, biking, and going for drives in his family’s 1972 Plymouth Duster. To learn more about Mid-Minnesota Development Commission, visit MMRDC.org

The post Mike Nicholas Joins Mid-Minnesota Development Commission appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
McLeod County Residents Invited to Provide Input /press-release/mcleod-county-residents-invited-to-provide-input/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mcleod-county-residents-invited-to-provide-input Wed, 31 May 2023 16:15:29 +0000 /?p=2051 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ben Dolan, Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Regional Planner (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Project Lead) Phone: (320) 235-8504 Ben.Dolan@mmrdc.org McLeod County Residents Invited to Provide Input Survey Responses Will Help to Shape the County’s Required Solid Waste Plan May 31, 2023:  McLeod County has engaged Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) to assist with the development of the next McLeod […]

The post McLeod County Residents Invited to Provide Input appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Ben Dolan, Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Regional Planner (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Project Lead)

Phone: (320) 235-8504

Ben.Dolan@mmrdc.org

McLeod County Residents Invited to Provide Input

Survey Responses Will Help to Shape the County’s Required Solid Waste Plan

May 31, 2023:  McLeod County has engaged Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) to assist with the development of the next McLeod County Solid Waste Plan. This plan will describe county objectives and potential strategies for the management of solid waste, including recyclable materials. While it is required by Minnesota statute (Minnesota’s Waste Management Act), the updated McLeod County Solid Waste Plan will also provide the documentation needed to be competitive for any applicable solid waste management-related grants and other funding.

For this plan to be effective, significant public input is required! All residents are therefore asked to participate in the McLeod County Waste Survey, which can be found at:

. Paper copies may also be provided, by request. A second survey will be made available to those who visit a solid waste facility within McLeod County (e.g., McLeod County Environmental Services facility, recycling and waste disposal site, etc.).

Those with questions about McLeod County’s Solid Waste Plan or the planning process are encouraged to reach out to Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Regional Planner Ben Dolan at Ben.Dolan@mmrdc.org or (320) 235-8504.

The post McLeod County Residents Invited to Provide Input appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Receives Grant Award From Willmar Area Community Foundation /press-release/mmdc-receives-grant-award-from-willmar-area-community-foundation/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mmdc-receives-grant-award-from-willmar-area-community-foundation Wed, 31 May 2023 15:59:12 +0000 /?p=2047 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Phone: (320) 235-8504 Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Receives Grant Award From Willmar Area Community Foundation  Funds Will Support a Fare-Free Transit Bus Option for Willmar Residents May 31, 2023:. The Willmar Area Community Foundation recently awarded Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) a $20,000 grant to reduce transportation barriers […]

The post Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Receives Grant Award From Willmar Area Community Foundation appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Phone: (320) 235-8504

Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org

Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Receives Grant Award From Willmar Area Community Foundation

 Funds Will Support a Fare-Free Transit Bus Option for Willmar Residents

May 31, 2023:. The Willmar Area Community Foundation recently awarded Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) a $20,000 grant to reduce transportation barriers for Willmar residents during a six-month pilot. During this pilot period, any rider who boards and departs the transit bus at an established stop along Central Community Transit’s (CCT) Willmar Route will ride fare-free (at no cost). The pilot will run from July 1 through December 31, 2023, to give Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ and CCT the opportunity to see how summer, autumn, and winter weather affects fare-free ridership.

“We have a couple of goals that we’re trying to achieve with this project,” said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Mobility Manager Terry Smith. “First and foremost, we want to reduce financial barriers to help people get where they need and want to be, whether that be work, school, a doctor’s appointment, or the park. We also want to encourage more people, those without physical or other limitations, to take advantage of Willmar’s regular route and become less reliant on CCT’s dial-a-ride service. This would create some efficiencies for CCT, which is important given the current shortage of drivers. As more people board and depart at the established stops, CCT will have greater ability to accommodate those who must rely on dial-a-ride, curb-to-curb service.”

“This project would not be possible without the generous funding provided by the Willmar Area Community Foundation”, said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Executive Director Eric Day. “It’s apparent that WACF understands the barriers faced by our areas nondrivers, including seniors, people with disabilities, and those of low income. We appreciate the extent to which they’re willing to be part of the solution.”

$18,000 of the $20,000 grant will be used to compensate CCT for the uncollected fares during the pilot period, with the remaining $2,000 spent on outreach (e.g. media ads, translating of developed materials, etc.). No dollars from the WACF grant will be used to compensate Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ for associated staff time.

“We’re excited to partner with Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ on this project, said Central Community Transit Executive Director Amy Nieland, and we can’t express how appreciative we are of the Willmar Area Community Foundation for making the fare-free option possible!”

The post Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Receives Grant Award From Willmar Area Community Foundation appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s AARP Grant Funds New Micro-Mobility Option for Area Community /press-release/mmdcs-aarp-grant-funds-new-micro-mobility-option-for-area-community/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mmdcs-aarp-grant-funds-new-micro-mobility-option-for-area-community Thu, 04 May 2023 15:49:46 +0000 /?p=2041 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission Phone: (320) 235-8504 Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s AARP Grant Funds New Micro-Mobility Option for Area Community May 2023:. Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) recently delivered a new vehicle to the Traditions apartment complex (formally known as Fairview Place), in Olivia. It wasn’t a car, van, SUV, or pickup […]

The post Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s AARP Grant Funds New Micro-Mobility Option for Area Community appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Eric Day, Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Phone: (320) 235-8504

Email: eric.day@mmrdc.org

Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s AARP Grant Funds New Micro-Mobility Option for Area Community

May 2023:. Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­) recently delivered a new vehicle to the Traditions apartment complex (formally known as Fairview Place), in Olivia. It wasn’t a car, van, SUV, or pickup truck. Rather, it was a fat-tire, electric assist tricycle, large enough to comfortably accommodate two adults, one operator and one rider. This donation, made possible with generous AARP Community Challenge Grant funding, will give Traditions residents another way to get around town. Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ received the AARP Community Challenge grant in 2022 to improve mobility and increase community participation, especially among seniors.

“Our goal is to help older community members, and others, to get around so they can fully-participate in community life. This includes helping those who don’t drive a car at all as well as those who prefer not to drive a car every time,” said Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Mobility Manager Terry Smith. “This trike is next-level and we hope it’ll be the first of many in our region’s communities.”

While based on a traditional rickshaw, Traditions’ new trike features large tires, otherwise known as “fat tires,” for a smooth ride and good traction. It also incorporates electric assist to ease use and avoid operator fatigue, as well as plenty of capacity to carry another person and/or miscellaneous items like grocery bags, library books, or other packages. “All we can say is wow!”, said Traditions Ambassador Sara Maher. “Traditions’ residents would like to thank the partners that made this happen: Mid-Minnesota Development Commission and [the] AARP Community Challenge grantors.”

Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ works to reduce transportation gaps throughout their four county (Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville) region, through a Minnesota Department of Transportation Regional Transportation Coordinating Council (RTCC) grant. Work includes improving coordination between transportation and other service providers, professional and volunteer driver recruitment, public education, and more. For more information, contact Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­ Mobility Manager Terry Smith at (320) 235-8504 or Terry.Smith@mmrdc.org.  

The post Âé¶ą´«Ă˝Ół»­â€™s AARP Grant Funds New Micro-Mobility Option for Area Community appeared first on Mid-Minnesota Rural Development Commission.

]]>