One notable issue was the production and distribution of the 2025 Zumbrota Visitor Guide. Grim Rood, who was present to discuss the guide, highlighted that the current supply of the guide was dwindling, necessitating a new print run. The previous year saw 5,000 copies ordered, a reduction from the 10,000 copies ordered in prior years. Rood cited a cost of $4,400 for producing 20 pages of content and suggested that printed quantities could range from 5,000 to 7,500 copies. He noted that an additional print run of 2,000 copies could be easily achieved if demand increased.

There was discussion about the costs and benefits of printing different quantities, with various board members weighing in on budgetary constraints and anticipated demand. The board ultimately decided that a proposal for printing 5,500 copies would be reasonable, considering recent distribution patterns and increased community interest. Rood also emphasized the importance of updating the guide’s content to keep it fresh and engaging.

The discussion touched upon the importance of selecting high-quality materials for the guide, with concerns raised about rising printing costs. Rood reiterated the guide’s growing popularity and the community’s interest in participating in future editions. He invited board members to provide feedback on sections like “Historic Downtown” and “Arts and Entertainment,” emphasizing the need to better serve both the community and its visitors.

In a notable development, the Economic Development Authority addressed a proposal from local farmer Tim Mack regarding excavation work to reroute water drainage on his property adjacent to EDA land on 22nd Street/Avenue. The work would impact lot 525, which has a significant drop-off of six to seven feet. The board debated the feasibility and benefits of leveling the lot or moving the waterway, ultimately deciding that any work must strictly remain on Mack’s property without encroaching on EDA land. The members stressed the importance of clear agreements and understanding the specifics of Mack’s proposal.

Another point of interest was the announcement of a new business opening on Main Street. The Zambro Chiropractic Clinic is relocating, leaving its former storefront vacant. Paul from Dwell plans to open a men’s clothing store named Marlo, in tribute to his father, in the now-empty space.

Attention also turned to updates on the KB Apartments project. It was noted that September 23rd would be a critical date to determine the project’s progress regarding a grant application. However, there were no substantial updates available during the meeting.

The board also discussed the status of several other local properties and development projects. One member reported on efforts to subdivide the C Ind’s property to separate the farmhouse and adjacent buildings for potential development. Three developers had been contacted for assessments, but there seemed to be no immediate urgency from the property owner regarding sales or development.

Additionally, the board reviewed the status of Neel’s drive-thru project. Recent changes involved moving gas lines in preparation for the drive-thru. There were questions about the approval process from the county and the implications for opening the drive-thru. It was noted that the drive-thru had briefly opened but experienced complications that required further adjustments to comply with county regulations.