Civil Municipal - May 2024

year and looks toward 2025, the city’s leadership focuses on strategic goals that balance growth with sustainability. McCann articulates these priorities with clarity. “We want the city to grow and thrive and attract more residents with a variety of housing stock while maintaining a well-balanced budget and excellent city services,” he states, summarizing the multifaceted goals the city aims to achieve. This broad vision encompasses both the desire for expansion and the evolve, the role of strategic partnerships becomes increasingly vital. These collaborations amplify the city’s capabilities in managing growth and enhance its economic and social landscape. McCann emphasizes the importance of regional collaborations, particularly with neighboring communities. “REDA, the Regional Economic Development Alliance, is instrumental,” he states, highlighting the alliance’s role in advancing regional economic strategies. This collaboration extends to the city of Mankato, located just across the river, which is crucial to North Mankato’s operational dynamics. Further elaborating on the joint efforts, McCann points to the Mankato/North Mankato Area Planning Organization (MAPO).“MAPO is a key part of our joint planning efforts,”he adds,signifying the organization’s role in synchronizing regional transportation initiatives that affect both communities. Beyond government-led initiatives, McCann discusses the role of local business organizations in driving economic development. “There’s a big umbrella group called Greater Mankato Growth (GMG), which functions as a chamber, lobbyist, and oversees the REDA functionality,” he explains. GMG plays a multifaceted role for North Mankato through lobbying and economic development promotion and enhancing the city’s aesthetics and revitalization efforts through initiatives like the City Center Partnership (CCP). Furthermore, McCann touches on initiatives aimed at workforce development, though indirect, that connect education to local employment opportunities.“While not directly involved, we participate in a committee that focuses on workforce development issues,” he clarifies. This committee, known as the Cities, Colleges, and Universities Committee, includes representatives from North Mankato, Mankato, the nearby city of Saint Peter, and various educational institutions, highlighting a collaborative approach to fostering local talent and employment opportunities. SETTING PRIORITIES FOR NORTH MANKATO’S FUTURE As North Mankato moves through the current 67 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 05 NORTH MANKATO, MN