its production lines, it plans to anchor that progress locally. “We manufacture some products tens of thousands of times a year,” Hartmann says. “We’re automating that process and plan to deploy the technology here. It’s the right workforce and the right support network.” The city is already preparing to make that growth possible.“When a business like Plymouth Industries grows, it helps the entire community,” Mayor Bengtson says.“We’re working with Lance to identify expansion sites and ensure our infrastructure can handle the next phase.” TEN YEARS OF STEADY INVESTMENT Eden Valley’s infrastructure renewal has been steady and strategic, a continuation of work that began a decade ago. “When I became mayor ten years ago, one of our first goals was to update water, sewer, and storm systems,” Mayor Bengtson says. “Some lines were more than fifty years old. We didn’t encounter lead pipe issues, but the materials were aging.That meant more repairs and more cost every year.” After modernizing major sections of its network, the city is now looking ahead. “We’re engineering designs that will allow us to extend services past our current limits,” Mayor Bengtson explains. “That includes lift stations and other updates that will support new housing and business development. It’s the groundwork for growth.” Strategic planning is key. “We look one year, five years, and fifteen years ahead,” he says. “For a small town, that discipline matters. It’s how you build for the future without burdening residents.” HOUSING FOR EVERY CHAPTER Eden Valley is also addressing housing in a way that supports every stage of life — from first-time buyers to retirees. “Recently, a local partner acquired property in a multifamily zone,” Mayor Bengtson says. “He’s exploring new townhomes and apartments to expand rental options.Another developer who built a large apartment community here is considering a second building on that site or developing new land inside city limits.” The city’s goal is to keep long-time residents close while opening doors for new families. “We have older residents who want single-level living,” Mayor Bengtson says.“If we can offer that, they can stay in town — and their larger homes become available for younger families. It keeps the housing conveyor belt moving.” 85 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11 EDEN VALLEY, MN
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