Business View Magazine | November 2019

342 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2019 our newest elementary school. Each year, we bring in students and visitors from around the country to see each of our demonstration projects and how they work for us. We market this and we try to set an example for other cities to follow. Our Energy City Commission sets 20-year goals for the growth and expansion of our sustainability programs.” The eleven members of the Energy City Commission promote the City of Elk River as a hub of energy technology, energy manufacturing, energy demonstrations, recycling, use of green products, and the adoption of sustainable living practices. Energy City Commissioners work with entities interested in completing an energy efficient and economically feasible project in the Elk River area. Such entities may include builders, utility companies, government agencies, non- profits, homeowners, or businesses. Included in that, through the city’s Economic Development Authority, are micro-loans set up to lure and expand green industries within the community. With a population of about 24,000, Elk River is growing at a modest pace, while staying true to its foundational values. “We’re kind of a rural center,” says Portner. “We’re midway between Minneapolis and St. Cloud, so you have a small- town community feel, with big-city amenities very close – within 40 miles each way. We’re a modern, dynamic city that still maintains its core, community culture – ‘Powered by Nature.’” PREFERRED VENDOR n CenterPoint Energy www.CenterPointEnergy.com CenterPoint Energy has operated in Minnesota for nearly 150 years, during which time it has provided safe, reliable natural gas and related services to over 850,000 customers in over 260 communities. We’re also one of Minnesota’s leaders in repairing, replacing and maintaining major appliances. City Hall Solar Array