YOUR CITY AT WORK
Meet Economic Development Manager Samantha DiMaggio
When a new business opens in Chanhassen or a construction project gets underway, it’s not just a coincidence—it’s the result of careful planning, strategic connections and a dedicated effort to support economic growth. At the heart of these efforts is Samantha DiMaggio, Chanhassen’s Economic Development Manager, who works every day to strengthen the city’s business community and create opportunities for entrepreneurs. With a background deeply rooted in small business—both in her professional life and her family history—DiMaggio understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that business owners face. She sees herself as a business concierge, a problem solver and a connector, helping local businesses navigate zoning regulations, find financing solutions and access the resources they need to thrive. “My role is really about matchmaking,” DiMaggio explains. “Whether it’s helping a business owner find the right space, introducing them to potential partners or providing guidance on available financial incentives, I’m here to support them at every step.” Helping Businesses Succeed One of DiMaggio’s key responsibilities is working with both new and established businesses to ensure they have the tools to grow. She meets regularly with business owners, learning about their needs and finding ways the city can assist. From securing funding to navigating the permitting process, her goal is to make Chanhassen a welcoming place for businesses of all sizes.
Chanhassen’s Three-Year Economic
Development Plan lays out a roadmap for the city’s business growth, emphasizing entrepreneurship, redevelopment of underutilized properties and a balanced mix of commercial and residential projects. DiMaggio plays a vital role in implementing these strategies,
Retiming Project Delivers Big Benefits
MAKING A DIFFERENCE If you’ve driven along West 78 th Street recently, you may have noticed a smoother commute. That’s because, in December 2024, six traffic signals along the corridor were “retimed” as part of the Powers Boulevard and West 78 th Street traffic signal replacement project. While adjusting signal timing might seem like a small tweak, the results speak for themselves—less congestion, reduced emissions and significant cost savings for drivers. By analyzing traffic flow and optimizing signal timing, the project successfully cut annual vehicle stops by 1.7 million, reduced traffic delays by 3,548 hours per year and saved 13,868 gallons of fuel annually. These improvements not only make daily travel more efficient but also contribute to better air quality by reducing carbon monoxide emissions by nearly 1,000 kilograms per year.
The total cost of the “retiming” effort was $12,500 but the estimated annual economic benefit is a staggering $261,273— resulting in a benefit-to-cost ratio of 21:1. In other words, for every dollar invested in retiming the signals, the community is seeing a $21 return in reduced fuel consumption, time savings and environmental benefits. This project is a perfect example of how small, strategic infrastructure improvements can have a big impact on residents' daily lives. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands or just passing through, these updates mean less time sitting at red lights and more time getting where you need to go.
role in shaping Chanhassen’s identity. A Vision for Growth Economic development is about thoughtful growth and DiMaggio is committed to ensuring Chanhassen remains a great place to do business while maintaining its small-town charm. She believes that every thriving city needs a balance of large employers, small businesses and a diverse range of industries to remain strong. As Chanhassen continues to evolve, DiMaggio’s role is more important than ever. Her work isn’t just about business— it’s about shaping the future of the city, creating a community where businesses succeed, residents benefit and Chanhassen continues to be one of the best places to live and work. Want to learn more? Head to our YouTube channel to watch our new series on economic development called “The Local.”
ensuring that businesses not only open in Chanhassen but also stay and flourish. Connecting the Community Beyond supporting businesses, DiMaggio’s work has a direct impact on residents. A strong local economy means more jobs, vibrant shopping and dining options, and a community where people can live and work without having to leave town. Through programs like Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) surveys, she gathers insights from business owners to shape policies that foster economic resilience. She also helps cultivate a sense of place by facilitating events that bring the business and residential communities together. Whether it’s Small Business Saturday, a new restaurant opening or a manufacturing tour, she is always looking for ways to highlight the local economy’s
How did that business get here?
CHAN 101:
How Does the City Determine What Businesses Are in Chanhassen?
The City’s Role: Zoning and a Supportive Environment While the city doesn’t select businesses, it does play a role in shaping where different types of businesses can go through its zoning ordinances, which are informed by the City’s Comprehensive Plan and 2040 land use map. The land use map divides the city into different land-use categories, such as residential, commercial and industrial and then identifies specific zoning districts eligible based on the property's land use designation. If a business fits within the land use and zoning rules for a particular area, it can open there, provided it meets all other local and state regulations. The city also works to create a business-friendly environment by investing in infrastructure, streamlining permit processes and maintaining a high quality of life that makes Chanhassen an attractive place to do business. While the city can’t hand-pick businesses, it remains committed to fostering a strong local economy where businesses can thrive.
Have you ever wished for a specific restaurant, grocery store or shop to open in Chanhassen? You’re not alone! Many residents wonder how businesses decide where to open—and whether the city has any say in the process. The answer might surprise you: The City of Chanhassen does not choose which specific businesses move in. The city does establish areas for businesses through city zoning ordinances but ultimately it’s a market-driven process that depends on private business decisions. The Role of the Market Businesses—whether national chains or small local entrepreneurs—decide where to locate based on market conditions. Factors like the number of homes in the area, population size, income levels, traffic patterns and proximity to competitors all play a role in whether a business chooses to open in Chanhassen. Large chains often have site selection teams that analyze demographics and sales potential before making a decision.
“My role is really about matchmaking, whether it’s helping a business owner find the right space, introducing them to potential partners or providing guidance on available financial incentives, I’m here to support them at every step.”
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SUMMER 2025 | CITY OF CHANHASSEN
CITY OF CHANHASSEN | SUMMER 2025
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