21:04The Spark Center for Entrepreneurship emerged as a central topic of discussion, underscoring its role as a future hub for local entrepreneurs. The center aims to provide resources, mentorship, and educational programming, particularly targeting underserved communities. Set to open in spring 2026 within the new Moorhead Public Library and Community Center, the Spark Center aspires to ignite innovation in the region. Its strategic objectives include fostering an entrepreneurial culture, offering accessible resources, and strengthening partnerships with educational institutions and local businesses. The center is designed to support entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, and new Americans. The initiative seeks to create a launchpad for small business success, with flexible workspaces and meeting rooms integrated into the community center’s design.

The discussion surrounding the Spark Center also highlighted the potential for collaboration with the Global Market, a venue that supports various entrepreneurs. Participants recognized the importance of building a supportive network for emerging entrepreneurs, with plans to connect them with the resources offered by the Spark Center.

31:01In addition to the entrepreneurial focus, the meeting addressed legislative challenges facing Moorhead. A update was provided on the 2025 legislative recap, detailing the city’s efforts to secure funding for local projects. The legislative session, characterized by a projected decline in revenue forecasts, did not conclude with a state budget, prompting a special session. Despite limited measurable results, notable accomplishments included a five-year extension on the tax increment financing district for downtown, allowing for the recapture of added property value over an extended period.

Flood mitigation efforts in Moorhead were also discussed, with a request for $17 million in funding, of which $9 million was approved statewide. The rising costs due to construction inflation have increased the project’s anticipated cost to $18.5 million. The ongoing priority of securing funding for flood mitigation was emphasized, alongside the need for continued advocacy and collaboration with local partners.

46:30Sustainable initiatives were another focal point during the meeting, particularly the discussion on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) projects. The potential for a sales tax exemption for construction materials benefiting DG Fuels was highlighted. Additionally, funding requests related to the Moorhead Cultural Mall were revised, allowing eligibility for arts programming funding through the Minnesota Humanities Center. This adaptation aimed to positively impact various markets and initiatives connected to the immigrant development center.

14:50The meeting also touched upon the challenges of expanding the border cities enterprise zone. Despite substantial support in the Senate, the initiative lacked corresponding backing in the House and was ultimately excluded from the final bill. This disappointment was coupled with optimism for revisiting the issue in the future, as modifications to the zone were seen as beneficial for local businesses and city operations.

40:58Budget discussions rounded out the meeting, with a preliminary budget and tax levy for 2026 introduced to board members. The importance of early budget review was emphasized, allowing members to seek clarifications ahead of the next meeting. Interest earnings exceeding expectations were noted, presenting potential opportunities for further budgetary planning. The reduction in professional services costs was attributed to the completion of digitizing historic records, aligning with the city’s budgetary goals.

The economic development report provided updates on various projects, including ongoing demolition efforts for downtown development and infrastructure work on Minnesota and Red River Avenues. Additionally, the partnership with Macar Real Estate Services marked a step forward in marketing and development efforts, with upcoming presentations expected from Goldmark Commercial representatives.

The meeting concluded with reflections on a recent trip to Washington, D.C., where discussions with legislators emphasized the significance of sustainable aviation fuel initiatives.