Business Growth, Expansion Continue in Owatonna

During a Facebook video local business update this week, Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism President Brad Meier also reported on positive economic development news for the community. He said expansions are close to completion at Revol Greens, Bushel Boy and Daikin. Meier also reported that three business projects are continuing to move forward. Costco, Minimizer, and Rise Modular might face some delays, but the projects are advancing.

Meier also said the chamber is working with a new business prospect for downtown retail and a project for the industrial park. Meier said the downtown hotel project is moving forward. And Foremost Cooperative should start construction soon.

In the April 15 Owatonna Chamber e-newsletter, he had mixed news to report regarding effects of the stay-at-home and business restrictions. "Sidelined businesses are looking for ways to reopen. Many of you have found creative ways to stay safe and sell product. Now the state is taking your recommendations for how to reopen."

Meier said there is a form on the Owatonna Chamber's website for businesses to indicate how they can open safely, "Many of you have shared your ideas with me and subsequently on to the State of MN."

He adds that the critical business list is changing regularly. Meier says the Paycheck Protection Program money is beginning to flow. However, "The Economic Injury Disaster Loans were those that promised $10,000 in three days. If you applied, you know by now that the promised funds were much less and didn't arrive in three days. We're tracking additional funding into the program."

Meier said the City of Owatonna "is working on liquor license adjustments that coincide with your closures-more on that next week."