Civil Municipal - May 2024

complement existing ones. Many success stories that reflect a healthy and thriving economic environment mark the city’s business landscape. Businesses such as T. O. Plastics, which sponsors community events like Heritage Days, and Kwik Trip, are prime examples of the municipality’s supportive climate.“Kwik Trip expanded shortly after moving in. My understanding is that Clearwater is one of Kwik Trip’s highest volume locations for diesel fuel in the state,” states Lawrence. Coborn’s, a local grocery store, has also reinvested by adding a Caribou Coffee and updating its drive- through, demonstrating market confidence. These reinvestments and expansions signal to potential entrepreneurs that Clearwater is a place where businesses can, and do, flourish. Lawrence says, “Businesses do updates, fix their facades, or have new signage to show they are successful.” Clearwater’s forward-thinking approach is straightforward in its annexation of land for commercial development. The recent acquisition of acreage has led to the establishment of Central Minnesota Cold Storage and Versatile Transport, LLC. Combined with community event involvement and recreational amenities, these efforts create a dynamic environment where commerce succeeds and contributes to Clearwater’s prosperity. “If you come here, you can succeed. It is proven by looking at our other businesses,” says Lawrence. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND CIVIC EVENTS The Clear Valley Business Connection (CVBC) and the Economic Development Authority (EDA) play pivotal roles in nurturing relationships and growth. These organizations are the linchpins in creating a network for local enterprises, facilitating introductions, and fostering collaborations that 53 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 05 CLEARWATER, MN