Focus on Small Cities

Mar-Apr 2024

Progress Slow, but Present in Appleton

The City of Appleton is rebounding since the 1,640-bed Prairie Correctional Facility closed in 2010.

Jan-Feb 2024

Howard Lake Set to Open State’s First Net-Zero Library

Howard Lake is set to open a new, net-zero library building that counterbalances the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced…

Nov-Dec 2023

Gnome Man’s Land: Mysterious Norwegian Characters Put Peterson on the Map

Peterson, MN, population 234, has become a tourist attraction thanks to a growing population of Norwegian gnomes.

Sep-Oct 2023

Spring Grove Advances 2023 Plan With Help From Rural Design Cohort Program

The Spring Grove 2030 initiative developed plans that included the idea of creating a new community space in Spring Grove.

July-August 2023

Empire — Minnesota’s Newest City — Was Years in the Making

Empire township applied in early 2022 to become Minnesota’s newest city, protecting its borders for future growth.

May-June 2023

Small Cities Tackle Large Projects With Grants

Cromwell’s success illustrates the importance of grants to small cities.

Mar-Apr 2023

Sartell Partners with School District for IT Assistance

The City of Sartell, in partnership with school district technology staff, has developed a successful solution to meet their IT…

Jan-Feb 2023

Bigfork Steps Up to the Plate for Community

Joe Zimmer and his public works team stepped up to build a new softball complex for the City of Bigfork.

Nov-Dec 2022

City of Gary Reimagines 160 Acres of Forest

The City of Gary turned 160 acres of donated land into a multi-use recreational area.

Sep-Oct 2022

City of Warren Adopts Flexible Work Culture

The City of Warren implemented a hybrid work-from-home policy and it led to filling the role with someone who otherwise…