2020 has been a great year for industrial growth according to the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism (OACCT). In the Tuesday Talk e-newsletter, chamber president Brad Meier writes, "Fueled by massive projects like the Costco Depot, Minimizer, Daikin, and Rise Modular, the City of Owatonna is reporting huge industrial growth. Investment has already surpassed all of 2019 and is on track for one of the biggest years in recent memory."

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Meier cites city building officials stats, "through September 2020, industrial investment has reached $54.7 million compared with just $1.4 million in 2019. That's an incredible $52 million increase and represents a booming industrial park."

Statistics include

  • 385,000 square foot distribution facility for Costco to serve 25 stores throughout the Midwest.
  • 80,000 square feet of space as Minimizer consolidates facilities from Blooming Prairie.
  • 150,000 square feet of warehouse and distribution space for Daikin.

Meier adds, "Couple the industrial growth with commercial building and residential construction and Owatonna building values total more than $83 million through September. Compare that with the total of $50 million total in 2019 and it's easy to see how these projects are making a positive impact in the area."

Tuesday Talk also reports on the City of Owatonna candidate forum that was held on Monday, October 12. One topic "ruffled some feathers and it over transparency." The next forum feature state senate and representative offices. The event starts at 12 pm Monday, October 19 at the Owatonna Country Club. It is co-hosted by the OACCT, Owatonna People's Press and the Owatonna Rotary Club. The forum will be streamed at OwatonnaLive.com and can be heard on a delayed basis on AM 1390 KRFO Tuesday, October 20 at 1 pm.

 

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