In City Spotlight, learn from city staff and elected leaders about projects, programs, and ideas taking shape in communities across Minnesota.

Roseville Rolls Out New Electric Fire Engine

By David Brosnahan

ROSEVILLE FIRE CHIEF
ROSEVILLE (POPULATION 35,637)

The City of Roseville is on the leading edge of an electrifying new trend. It’s among the first communities in Minnesota to purchase a state-of-the-art electric fire engine. The new engine, which arrived in fall 2025, is reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving workplace conditions, and deepening the city’s commitment to sustainable technology. We believe this new technology could also help the city’s bottom line.

The City Council approved the purchase of the electric fire truck to replace an aging diesel engine at a cost of $1.8 million, compared to $1.1 to $1.4 million for a traditional diesel model. While the upfront cost is higher, the electric engine is expected to serve as the department’s primary, or “first-out” truck for about 10 years and remain in the city’s fleet for a total of 20 years. By comparison, diesel fire engines typically serve as first-out trucks for about five years and have an overall lifespan of roughly 15 years. The electric engine is also expected to save the city up to $15,000 annually in diesel fuel costs.

Additionally, the vehicle’s smaller, sleeker design allows it to maneuver more easily in tight spaces, including our more densely developed retail areas and townhome and apartment communities.

We believe the electric fire engine may also reduce repetitive stress and other workplace injuries. It features a much quieter cab and a lower, 7-inch step-up. That step — repeated thousands of times over a firefighter’s career, while wearing heavy gear — can put significant strain on knees and hips.

Environmental benefits have been immediate, including improved air quality at emergency scenes. Fire engines must remain running while firefighters battle a blaze or respond to an incident, and Roseville has experienced calls where diesel fuel trucks were needed on the scene to refuel engines during extended responses.

Innovation has always been part of Roseville’s culture. I believe our community’s investment in an electric fire engine showcases our commitment to innovation, community health, and environmental stewardship.

St. Cloud Positions Itself as a Film Ready Community

By Scott Zlotnik

COMMUNITY SERVICES AND FACILITIES DIRECTOR
ST. CLOUD (POPULATION 72,145)

St. Cloud’s pursuit of the Minnesota Film Ready Community designation grew from a partnership-driven effort to strengthen its economic development toolbox while raising the city’s profile across the state and beyond.

City and community leaders recognized that St. Cloud’s mix of historic buildings, distinctive neighborhoods, the Mississippi River, and a vibrant downtown made it a natural fit for film production. They also saw that our community has the operational capacity, and talented staff, needed to help film-ready projects succeed. This St. Cloud initiative will support both economic vitality and community identity. Film productions can bring immediate economic benefits through lodging, dining, transportation, and local hiring. Tourism partners also see long-term opportunities, including increased exposure, renewed interest in downtown, and the potential for increased visitor traffic. “Productions don’t just spend money while they’re here — they create lasting visibility. A single project can generate years of tourism interest,” said Visit Greater St. Cloud Executive Director Rachel Thompson.

The City of St. Cloud worked closely with Visit Greater St. Cloud and Explore Minnesota to provide accurate, accessible information for production companies. The city also adopted clear permitting procedures to ensure a predictable experience for filmmakers and an efficient process for city staff. The goal was to create a streamlined, transparent process that balances opportunities for filmmakers with consistent customer services.

“We’re committed to offering our full support to ensure film and production companies have a smooth and successful experience in St. Cloud,” said St. Cloud Mayor Jake Anderson.

For cities interested in pursuing a Film Ready designation, we recommend building internal alignment early, establishing clear and seamless permitting processes, maintaining close collaboration with tourism partners, and highlighting your community’s unique character. With streamlined permitting procedures in place, cities can position themselves more competitively for film and production opportunities.