Civil Municipal - June 2024

Mayor Todd Hammel begins by emphasizing Zumbrota’s unique position, not just in terms of location but also in its offerings. “Our city’s got a great placement,” he explains. We’re close to major cities but maintain a quaint, closely-knit community atmosphere.We have a thriving downtown area filled with boutiques, restaurants, and a newly built 57-unit apartment complex that allows residents to fully immerse themselves in what downtown offers.” Unpacking the character of the downtown businesses, the mayor notes the diversity in retail offerings that cater primarily to a female demographic but are inclusive of all. “You’ve got Luya Shoes which is unlike any big brand store; it’s very unique. Then there’s Dwell Local, which even offers something as distinct as Bloody Mary mixes alongside its other unique items,” he says, painting a picture of a downtown that prizes individuality and local charm.. On the practical side of urban planning, Mayor Hammel shares that the city dramatically emphasizes walkability, ensuring that visitors can easily explore downtown on foot once they park.“We’ve addressed parking issues by implementing a two-hour parking limit near Main Street and continuously work on enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility,” he elaborates. This focus on accessibility supports local businesses and enhances the overall visitor experience, encouraging longer stays and more frequent returns. STRATEGIC GROWTH AND COMMUNITY COLLABORATION IN ZUMBROTA In Zumbrota, the focus is as much on enhancing daily life for its residents as it is on broadening its appeal to potential businesses and visitors. City Council member Sara Durhman highlights the unique collaborative spirit among local business owners, particularly in the downtown area, which is predominantly composed of women-owned businesses. “What makes our downtown different is the cooperation among business owners. We work together seamlessly,” she shares. She exemplifies this community spirit, “If a fellow store owner finds something that would suit my shop better, they’d pass it along rather than compete for it.” 139 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 ZUMBROTA, MN