After the school district failed referendums, we pooled our funds. Instead of basic code upgrades at the high school, we enhanced the outcome by combining our resources banners on light poles. “Businesses moved, so we created green spaces in the vacancies,” says Murray. An important endeavor involves introducing wayfinding signage to improve the visitor experience when navigating Staples. Murray states, “We pulled together 40 individuals who formed three committees. They improve downtown and work to bring people into the core.” Staples commercial growth over the last eight years comes from increasing its Highway 10 presence. At the opposite end of town from Lakewood, Essentia Health is developing another clinic alongside the artery. Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railways (BNSF) travel through the district, and the company built an extra space. Casey’s gas station is situated along Highway 10, accompanied by a recently constructed medical building featuring dentists and eye doctors. A modern 15,000-square-foot multi-use facility reached completion and hosts two anchor tenants. One is a pharmacy purchased by LHS with a 60-year private ownership history.This illustrates Lakewood’s contributions to resolving societal challenges. The second anchor tenant is Twin Cities Orthopedics as well as houses 11 apartments on its second floor. The Timberlake Hotel arrived in Staples in 2017, prompting officials to institute a 3% lodging tax, the maximum in Minnesota.“We formed a non-profit tourism board and received tax-exempt status, which benefits the tourist and sustains impactful work,” says Wyman. Annually, $40,000 from lodging taxes plus funds from grants supports the $70,000 tourism budget. This modest amount broadened the annual Railroad Day celebration—an event crucial in drawing visitors. A PLACE TO LET GO, UNWIND, AND SOCIALIZE A city’s responsibility does not end at the residential and commercial levels.Ahealthy lifestyle incorporates fresh air, family time, and recreational options that incorporate both. Staples offers all-level, all-encompassing outdoor 67 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 03 STAPLES, MN
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