The retail incubator concept was presented by representatives from the city of Owatonna and the Main Street program. The initiative is designed to address the closure of Urban Loft downtown and fill vacancies, particularly in the Zamboni building. The idea is to establish a retail incubator space at the Rose Street Center, which would include outdoor and indoor shops, a co-working space, a maker space, and a community welcoming center. A food truck area is also planned to help operators transition to permanent locations.

The partnership would see the City of Owatonna holding a three-year lease, with Owatonna Public Schools contributing services to alleviate utility expenses. The Main Street program would manage operations, while the Owatonna Economic Development Board of Directors would oversee the co-working and maker spaces. The retail incubator model draws inspiration from a successful example in Batavia, Illinois, where a similar initiative led to the establishment of multiple shops that became tourist attractions and helped entrepreneurs transition to permanent locations.

A significant aspect of the proposal is student involvement. Students would participate in building the shop structures using materials funded by grants. The initiative also includes educational offerings and partnerships with community organizations, providing students with real-world business experience. This involvement extends to entrepreneurial education through high school programs like DECA, allowing students to gain valuable insights into business operations.

The proposed retail incubator would feature 12 by 12-foot shops with customizable interiors, each equipped with heating and air conditioning. Shop owners would be responsible for insurance, and operational hours are suggested to include Thursday evenings, Fridays, and select weekend hours, encouraging engagement with the downtown area during peak times.

The retail incubator is planned to operate seasonally from May through mid-December, with potential reopening in April, depending on weather conditions. This operational model mirrors the successful Illinois initiative, offering a pathway for businesses to grow beyond initial rental phases. Community engagement is an important element, with local businesses and landlords expressing enthusiasm for the initiative, recognizing its potential to support small businesses and attract new tenants.

Following this in-depth discussion on the retail incubator, the meeting addressed the district’s financial achievements. The district received a certificate of excellence for its financial management, an accolade it has consistently earned over the years. Commendations were given for the district’s handling of finances, highlighting the sustained excellence in this area.

The meeting also touched on extracurricular activities, noting the success of the marching band, which achieved grand champion awards in several parades and participated in a Memorial Day parade for the first time in years. The board also heard positive feedback from a parent regarding a student trip to Peru, which was described as a “fabulous experience” that enriched students’ perspectives.

In terms of policy, the board conducted the first reading of three policies up for review, focusing on clarifications regarding student boundaries. Despite no changes, the committee brought them forward for board discussion. Additionally, the administrative report welcomed a new member, Dr. Champa, who expressed gratitude for the community’s warm reception and shared her smooth transition into the role.

The board also approved the long-term facilities maintenance plan, which includes a ten-year expenditure plan covering projects like cabinet replacements and flooring updates, with a focus on maintaining the district’s strong infrastructure. Ongoing renovations at the middle school, including asbestos removal, were highlighted, along with the progress of pool renovations set to be completed for the upcoming swim season.