Advantage Magazine | February 2024

FEBRUARY 2024

A ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION

LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW Insights From Area Legislators

MEET THE MEMBER Willow Creek Golf Course

GOLF OUTING Registration Opens Soon

CHAMBER STAFF & BOARD

February 2024 Advantage Magazine

TABLE OF CONTENTS

February 2024 Advantage Magazine

What’s Inside

Chamber Staff

CHAMBER PRESIDENT Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122

PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Madelyn Ryan | 507-424-5699

SENIOR DIRECTOR, EVENTS & PROGRAMS Ally Sheehan | 507-424-5687

COMMUNITY NEWS • Grand Opening of Mayo Clinic's New Building • Grantees Announced to Support Small Business Success • Big Job Gains in Minnesota

FEATURE Year in Review

SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665 WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR Kaytlyn Anzivino | 507-424-5662

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Cherie Thurlow | 507-288-1122

FEATURE Legislative Preview

COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN DIRECTOR Sophia van Oss | 507-424-5661

MEET THE MEMBER Willow Creek Golf Course

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Tim Shea | 507-424-5663

NEWSREEL New Roles and Celebrations

CHAMBER NEWS • Events • Candidate Training Program • Connecting Young Professionals with the RYT Network • 2024 Rochester Area Community Guide & Chamber Directory • Welcome New Chamber Ambassadors • Leadership Greater Rochester Applications Opening on February 19

RIBBON CUTTINGS Grand Openings, Anniversaries, New Members, and Other Celebrations

Chamber Board Officers

CHAIR OF THE BOARD Scott Eggert | Broadway Plaza

AT LARGE Gwen Stevens | People's Energy Cooperative

TREASURER Jessica Eidem | IBM Corporation

NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chamber

VICE CHAIR Steve Dunn | Taco JED

SECRETARY John Eckerman | RSP Architects

Chamber Board Members

SANTHI ARUNACHALAM Xylo Technologies Inc.

ULISES GONZALEZ Baser Freight

TOM LEIMER Knutson Construction

CHAD BEHNKEN Hamilton Real Estate

DOUG HOLTAN Mayo Clinic

OMAR NUR Somali American Social Services Association

ONE FIRM: INFINITE SOLUTIONS

DR. JEFFREY BOYD Rochester Community and Technical College

JARETT JONES Merchants Bank

SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER 125 LIVE

MARGE KELLEY GPC

HEATHER DONOVAN Sterling State Bank

KELSEY VASZILY Kraus-Anderson Construction

CHAD LAUNDERVILLE Hy-Vee

ABEL GARCIA Remodeling D.L, LLC

At TSP, our passionate and diverse team seamlessly blends architecture, engineering, planning, and interior design to create functional and beautiful spaces. With a commitment to innovation and a client-focused approach, our multidisciplinary experts are with you from concept to completion.

Rochester-area businesses are empowered to succeed in a diverse and collaborative climate. VISION

The Chamber promotes business success which supports a thriving community. MISSION

TEAMTSP COM/ABOUT

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Contact Sophia van Oss at svanoss@rochestermnchamber.com

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FEBRUARY 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 3

YEAR IN REVIEW

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MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

In February 2023, Eggs and Issues featured a discussion of the Minnesota state budget with then Commissioner Jim Schowalter of the Minnesota Department of Management and Budget. Commissioner Schowalter shared his budget forecast for the state of Minnesota and engaged with attendees. This included insight into priorities and initiatives surrounding the budget and potential challenges and opportunities for Minnesota's financial stability moving forward. In May 2023, Caitlin Codella Low, Vice President, Policy and Programs and Kyle Butler, Manager, Programs from the US Chamber’s Center for Education and Workforce presented and discussed the importance of the talent pipeline when it comes

The Chamber celebrated the second year of Lemonade Day , which is a free experiential learning program that teaches local youth entrepreneurial and financial literacy as they learn how to start their very own business. This year, nearly 500 young entrepreneurs learned the aspects of developing and maintaining a business such as creating a product, establishing a budget, and designing a marketing plan. In addition, 20 local Rochester businesses participated in the Sweet Spot program, which is designed to help future entrepreneurs sign up for high-traffic locations on Rochester’s Lemonade Day. City Director Ally Sheehan said, “It was amazing to see participants, families, local businesses and the Rochester

to workforce development. Following Low's remarks,

community get involved in this sweet day! My favorite was visiting the young entrepreneurs that participated in last year's Lemonade Day to see how they changed, tweaked or adapted their

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce launched our new strategic plan to start 2023 and the resource has served as our road map throughout the past year for the organization. This includes a focus on advocacy, workforce, employer development & resources, member engagement, and more to serve the Rochester area business community

"My favorite was visiting the young entrepreneurs that participated in last year's Lemonade Day to see how they changed, tweaked or adapted their stand for the second year!"

an Education and Industry Partnership Panel discussed their collaborative efforts to facilitate a local talent pipeline aimed at addressing area workforce needs.

Throughout the year, the Chamber produced events, resources, discussions, and more in the areas of advocacy, workforce, professional development, networking, and more. These resources and opportunities are developed to support members as they strive for success, develop their teams, and adapt to an ever-changing business landscape. The Chamber is grateful to have an increase in member engagement in events and programs throughout 2024. Eggs and Issues , a long-standing series, provides opportunities for member businesses to learn about and discuss the issues that impact their businesses and the community.

stand for the second year!”

2023’s final Eggs and Issues was held in August with featured speakers Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and John Kirchner, Vice President, Midwest Region of the US Chamber highlighting action at Capitol Hill and delivering updates on relevant legislation to the business community.

Sheehan attended the National Lemonade Day conference where she gained ideas, met with other City Directors, and won an award for the Rochester MN Lemonade Day area. Save the date for the upcoming Lemonade Day on June 8, 2024!

and to demonstrate the value of Chamber membership.

Inside this issue of the Advantage are highlights from the past year including the continued expansion of programs, advocacy efforts, and accomplishment of key initiatives.

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YEAR IN REVIEW

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community. In addition to features on various aspects of Rochester life and industry, the Rochester Area Community Guide and Chamber Directory also serves as a directory of over 1,100 Chamber members. Overall, 2,500 area businesses and organizations, current and new residents, and incoming businesses to the area received physical copies of the guide. “We were excited to release the first annual community guide and look forward to future editions,” said Sophia van Oss, Communications & Design Director at the Chamber. “Thank you to our members, advertisers, and photo contributors for making this guide a reality.” For the second year in a row, the Chamber released a Shop Local – Holiday Gift Guide to promote member’s businesses and their holiday gift options. This year, we had over 45 members in retail, restaurants, art and photography, health care, and more participate in the guide with a wide variety of offerings.

The Chamber’s Annual Celebration gala, held

2023 BY THE NUMBERS

March 2, 2023, at the Mayo Civic Center, was a gathering celebrating Chamber members and their impact on the Rochester region. In 2023, over 700 members joined in celebration with an evening of entertainment and networking. Fun Pianos!, a dueling pianos act, entertained attendees throughout the night and it was an event to remember. Mark your calendar for our next gala on February 29, 2024! Each week, over 5,700 business professionals in the area receive the Chamber’s Weekly Update featuring the latest in Chamber events and news. In addition, members also receive the monthly Resource Connect emails, a compilation of useful resources, news, and tools for the business community. As a part of our digital communication, the Chamber also uses social media to engage with the community as well as share about events, programs, announcements, and news. Across all social media channels, the Chamber boosts over 12,000 followers.

205 NEW MEMBERS in 2023, 168 new members in 2022

MEMBERSHIP

960 SMALL BUSINESS MEMBERS making up 80% of our members

113 RIBBON CUTTINGS celebrating new members, grand openings, and other important milestones

EVENTS

The gift guide and shop local message was promoted throughout the Chamber’s channels including email, social media, Advantage magazine, billboard, and the press. The Chamber also produced a flyer and social media graphics for members to share with others.

83 EVENTS in 2023, an increase of 10 over 2022

9,028 ATTENDEES in 2023, an increase of 3,854 over 2022

Our monthly magazine, the Advantage , keeps members up-to-date on Chamber and community news. The Advantage is a great publication to learn more about the business community and to stay informed on the challenges and opportunities within the community. Over the 12 issues in 2023, readers learned local legislators perspectives, the young talent opportunities within our RYT Network, the fluctuating real estate market, and more. 2023 marked the inaugural issue of the Rochester Area Community Guide and Chamber Directory . Sent on a yearly basis, this guide features a regional industry overview and the community at a glance. The community at a glance highlights life in the Rochester region including education, healthcare, shopping, dining, arts and entertainment, sports and outdoor recreation, and making a home in the

“It was great to see the community come together to not only bring joy to the gift recipient, but the local businesses being supported as well,” said van Oss.

77 E-NEWSLETTERS with 4 The Advocate's, 19 Resource Connect and 52 Weekly Update emails sent to 5,790 subscribers

MEMBER CONNECTIONS

6,360 READERS of Advantage magazine

12,139 FOLLOWERS throughout our social media channels

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YEAR IN REVIEW

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ADVOCACY

WORKFORCE & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Workforce is an ongoing area of focus for the Rochester region and as the Chamber evolves we will expand our resources and opportunities in the areas of talent attraction and retention, career exploration, employer resources, industry and education partnerships, and more. A significant step in this effort took place in 2023 with the expansion of the Chamber team to include a director focusing on workforce initiatives. Kaytlyn Anzivino joined the Chamber team in June as the new Workforce Initiatives Director and has been essential to the launch of the Chamber’s Rochester Area Young Talent Network (RYT Network) and developing future workforce initiatives of the organization. Select Chamber workforce programs will launch in 2024 and Kaytlyn and the Chamber team are excited to share details in the months ahead. Read more about the RYT Network on page 10. Since 1987, the Chamber’s Leadership Greater Rochester (LGR) program has propelled leaders in the community to further be inspired, connected, and enlightened. The LGR class provides regional leaders with the tools and interactive experience to take their leadership skills to the next level. The over 1,000 alumni who have graduated from LGR have gone on to serve in various civic, community, and business leadership positions. The LGR network stretches across the community, present in almost every sector. The 10-month program immerses three dozen leaders in sessions examining everything from economic development and the local arts scene to workforce development and building a sustainable community. In 2023, participants in the program engaged in the Community Impact Project (CIP), which allows participants to apply their leadership skills and work collaboratively through their strengths to form partnerships, grow their brand, and ultimately meet a community need. 2023 marked a change in the CIP process where two projects moved forward. The class of 2023’s cohort projects included Ped Hub, which aims to increase access to bike repair and connect underserved areas of the community and TechConnect, which is a partnership between AARP’s Senior Planet, 125 LIVE, and the University of Minnesota – Rochester with a goal to increase accessibility, build community, and bridge gaps in technical knowledge.

During the 2023 Legislative session , the Chamber was very active in communicating and working with legislators to advocate on behalf of Chamber members on various issues. Items of focus from the 2023 legislative session included support of HF1938 (Tax Finance and Policy Bill) which served as the host of the language to support the renewal of Rochester’s local sales tax.

Business Development Exchange (BDX) is a quarterly program that provides Chamber members an opportunity to highlight their best practices in specific fields and to share their insight with other members to improve their business operations. Topics covered in 2023 include interview best practices, customer service, employee engagement, and workplace emergency preparedness. Senior Director, Membership & Development Kali Aldrich stated, “This year, we saw an increase in attendees from both small and large businesses and the topics presented have been well-received by members, enabling individuals to share ideas with their teams to improve their company functionality and morale.”

Throughout 2023, the Chamber has increased our communications with our federal delegation . Representative Finstad, Senator Klobuchar, Senator Smith, and their respective offices have been fantastic partners of the Chamber and have worked with us to support local requests for funding. The staff of the three offices have been very engaged, attending chamber events, listening to Chamber members, and sharing that feedback with the Congressman and Senators. This engagement has resulted in the Chamber progressing our strategic plan objectives of fostering relationships between the Chamber and our federal delegation and their staff. This year marked the launch of The Advocate , a newsletter from the Chamber focused on sharing information on the advocacy efforts of the Chamber and informing members of

The Chamber was also involved in strong opposition to legislation such as HF2 (Paid Family and Medical Leave), a sentiment shared by many of our members. This legislation will impose a mandated paid family and medical leave on employers of up to 20 weeks. Fortunately, the implementation of this legislation was pushed back until January 1, 2026, allowing time for the legislature to revisit and amend the

In November, approximately 110 exhibitors and over 3,000 students participated in the Chamber’s STEAM Summit , an event that connects middle school and high school students in the Southern Minnesota area with area businesses within STEAM industries (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics). This year’s attendance by businesses and students was record setting and the Chamber is thankful for our partnership on this program with Mayo Clinic and Rochester Community Technical College (RCTC). “It was great to see so many students interacting with hands-on experience. The STEAM Summit provides the opportunity for students to explore and find fields in the careers they might not have

program to better suit the business community.

relevant news stories on the local, state, and federal levels. The Advocate is a monthly communication

"Your support for our work and signing onto our coalition letters of support/opposition made a great impact in our efforts"

To wrap up the session, the Chamber worked closely with our

local healthcare partners to oppose SF2995 (Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill). In its introductory form, this bill would have imposed additional oversight boards and legislation that would mandate unnecessary rates and staffing levels within the healthcare industry. “I’d like to recognize and applaud our members who remained active and engaged with our advocacy throughout the year. Your support for our work and signing onto our coalition letters made a great impact in our efforts” noted Jonathon Krull, Public Affairs & Leadership Development Director at the Chamber.

when the Minnesota legislature is not in session but is sent out bi-weekly when the legislature is in session. “ The Advocate will play a key role in assisting in informing members of the issues and policies impacting the business community. It is another avenue for us to share resources that can inform and educate members on various advocacy-related issues” stated Jonathon Krull, Public Affairs & Leadership Development Director at the Chamber.

known existed.” said Ally Sheehan, Senior Director, Events & Programs at the Chamber. Mark your

calendars, the 2024 STEAM Summit will be held on November 12, 2024.

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YEAR IN REVIEW

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Grow Your Organization 2.2x Faster with

attending our events. In 2023, we hit record attendance for some of our annual events such as the Economic Summit, Local Government Connect, and Annual Celebration. This activity demonstrates how invested the business community is in their Chamber membership and networking with other members to grow their business. The membership of the Chamber continued to grow in 2023 with over 200 new members joining the organization. Our focus on advocacy, networking and engagement, workforce, and employer resources has created value for members in various industries and the Chamber will continue to evolve to provide value to members and the Rochester business community in the year ahead. The Chamber office has undergone a few facelifts this past year. Particularly, the conference room features a new monitor wall, mounted camera, and speakers prepped to help with any meeting needs. As the Chamber has expanded, we have taken the opportunity to refresh our office space for both the team and members. These improvements to our space have created additional opportunities for member businesses to take advantage of the conference room as a location to meet and connect.

KEY INITIATIVES

The Chamber recognizes the importance of providing young professionals with the networking opportunities they need to establish themselves within the region’s professional community. To address this need, the Chamber launched the Rochester Area Young Talent Network (RYT Network) in 2023 as a means to provide opportunities for the young talent of the region to create connections, build relationships across diverse industries, and develop a sense of community within their professional lives. From its inception, RYT Network members have had the opportunity to attend social events such as bowling and speed networking. Members have also connected with community leaders at CEO Connections, learned more about the Rochester recreation and fitness industry through industry tours, and attended professional development workshops. As we move into the new year, the RYT Network will continue to provide opportunities for its members to connect, learn, grow, and engage with the community and industry. In the summer of 2023, the Chamber convened a vote yes group to advocate for the renewal of Rochester’s half- percent local sales tax . The sales tax serves as a critical funding tool for projects that can improve the quality of life for residents, support infrastructure development that serves the business community, and can help drive economic growth in the region. The Vote Yes – Renew Rochester group was organized and led by the Chamber and included partner organizations such as the Rochester Area Builders, RAEDI, Rochester Area Foundation, Rochester Sports Foundation, Southeast MN Realtors and more. The Chamber’s focus for Vote Yes - Renew Rochester was to educate the community on the benefits that this would bring to the community. Throughout the campaign, the Chamber sought to provide information and resources to the community through multiple avenues including social media, local news outlets, and Chamber communication channels. Four information sessions were held by the Chamber for businesses and members of the community to learn more about the projects and ask questions. In addition, the Chamber held community discussion sessions and created resources such as the September issue of the

Vistage has been empowering small- and mid- sized organizations worldwide for over 65 years. Through Vistage groups, peer-to-peer support has consistently inspired authentic leadership, built business resilience, and strengthened organizational cultures.

Advantage Magazine, Project One-Sheets, and a website dedicated to the local sales tax renewal.

For-Profit and Non-Profit Organizations

THANK YOU

Ultimately the local sales tax renewal passed with 54% of the community in support.

The Chamber team welcomes the opportunity to serve our region’s business community, talented workforce, and community partners to further establish the Rochester area as a standout regional center. Thank you to our members for your ongoing support and engagement! Through your support of the Chamber we will continue to develop and lead initiatives that will advance the business community of the Rochester region.

Gather with like-minded, non-competing business leaders in your community once a month who understand the nuances of your community and bring the collective wisdom of over 65 years of global expertise to the table.

This extended the existing sales and use tax of 0.50% for 24 years or until $205 million is collected, to finance a $50 million economic vitality fund, $50 million in street reconstruction; $40 million in flood control and water quality; and a $65 million sports and recreation complex. It is estimated 43% of the revenue generated will come from non-Rochester residents. “The projects included in the renewal of the local sales tax will encourage economic growth in Rochester, improve community infrastructure, and enhance the area's quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors of Rochester. We applaud the Rochester community for approving the renewal of Rochester’s local sales tax and investing in the community for decades to come” said Ryan Parsons, President of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce. Chamber member engagement in programs continued to increase in 2023. From the monthly AM Espresso and Business After Hours to the Winter Business Showcase, including a quick sell-out in our annual Chamber Kickball Tournament and Golf Outing, our members are active in

• Succession planning • Executive coaching • Speaker’s bureau

• Peer advisory • Problem-solving • Exclusive events

Vistage groups are forming now! Join one today or connect with Tom to learn more. Tom Ferraro, MAOL Vistage Chair Thomas.Ferraro@VistageChair.com 507.269.6244

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FEBRUARY 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 11

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9/29/2023 8:25:05 AM

All of the information you need to make your voice heard this election

2024 Legislative Preview: Insights From Area Legislators Learn from local legislators on what key issues they see impacting businesses, expectations of the 2024 session, and their top focus in the session.

Registering to vote MATTERS In Minnesota, it’s easy to register to vote - or update your registration - at any time, including on election day. You must register in order to vote! Register to vote here:

Early voting MATTERS

Absentee voting MATTERS Voting absentee is a quick and easy way to make your vote count. You can sign up for permanent absentee voting and track the process of your ballot online.

Early voting is an opportunity to cast your vote when you can, not just on election day. There are easy opportunities via mail or in person. Vote early here:

Absentee vote here:

Welcome to 2024, a year where elections will dominate the headlines! As a member of the Minnesota Matters Coalition, the Chamber encourages you to view the left page to find information on how to register to vote, how to request an absentee ballot, early voting information, and key election dates. During this busy election year, we encourage you to do your civic duty and vote! Late last year the Chamber unveiled The Advocate to compliment and assist our advocacy efforts. This newsletter will play a key role in sharing information on the Chamber’s advocacy work while also informing members of relevant news stories on the local, state, and federal levels. During the legislative session The Advocate will be sent out bi-weekly, keeping members informed of relevant legislation and providing additional information on how to engage with the law-making process. Stay tuned for our 2024 Legislative Agenda which will be unveiled in the first issue of February in The Advocate.

Prior to the beginning of the legislative session, the Chamber takes the opportunity to connect with members of our Rochester delegation to gain their insight into the upcoming session. Delegation members are asked to detail what they see as a key issue impacting the community that can be addressed during the session, their expectations, and their focus for the 2024 legislative session. As we near the gaveling in of the legislature, we encourage you to read the responses of the elected officials on their outlook for the upcoming session and key issues that they anticipate. The Chamber looks forward to working with you, our members, to continue to share the voice of the business community through our advocacy in the year to come.

Minnesota’s 2024 voting timeline

General election early voting September 22 - November 6 Citizens can vote early in the general election by absentee ballot or in person in several locations. Check your voting location for available hours.

State primary August 13 This is your chance to help decide which candidates will be on the ballot in November’s general election, both in partisan and nonpartisan offices.

Register to vote Any time! Minnesota citizens can register to vote - or update their registration - at any time. It’s quick and easy to register online with a driver’s license, ID card or social security number. You could also register to vote on election day (link above).

Precinct caucuses February 27, 7:00 p.m.

Candidate filing period May 21 - June 4 All people who wish to run for office must file their candidacy during this time.

Precinct caucuses are run by each political party. This is where you can show support for issues that matter to you and your preferred candidate. To participate, you must be eligible to vote and live in the precinct.

Request an absentee ballot Any time! You can apply for an absentee ballot any time throughout the year, except the day of the election. It’s easy to download an application, and you can even track the status of your ballot online (link above).

Primary early voting June 23 - August 7 Citizens can vote

Absentee voting begins September 5, 2024

DISCLAIMER: The legislator’s responses are the sole views of their own. They do not reflect the opinions or views of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members. The publication of the Representative and Senator’s statements therein do not imply the expression of any endorsement whatsoever by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members.

Presidential primary March 5 Each major political

You may return your absentee ballot after

early in the primary by absentee ballot or in person in several locations. Check your voting location for available hours.

party will submit a list of candidates for the party’s ballot. Registered voters can vote at their polling place by selecting the ballot of their party of choice.

General election November 5

completing it with a witness (a registered Minnesota voter or notary).

At the time of publication, a response was not available from Rep. Tina Liebling (District 24B) and Sen. Steve Drazkowski (District 20).

FEBRUARY 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 13

LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW

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What do you foresee as a key issue impacting the Rochester area business community that can be addressed in the 2024 legislative session? In 2023 we passed a historic budget that invested in the needs of Minnesotans including record funding for housing, support for long-term care facilities, and substantial new funding to help make the costs of childcare and healthcare more affordable. With a budget already passed, much of our focus in 2024 will be on policy issues as well as passage of a job-creating bonding bill to rebuild critical infrastructure and state assets. The policy changes we will look at will be ones that can help address rising costs for families, especially in areas like childcare, and other steps to strengthen and grow our workforce. We must also continue to address the backlog of public works projects that face our state. Though we passed a record bonding bill in 2023, there remains a lot of work to do to invest in infrastructure that drives economic development and supports the needs of our communities. What are your expectations for the 2024 legislative session? Are there trends that the business community should be aware of? Our 2023 legislative session was a historically productive session that's impact will be felt

What do you foresee as a key issue impacting the Rochester area business community that can be addressed in the 2024 legislative session? The key to the success of Rochester, the region, and the entire state is investing in our infrastructure. All Minnesotans thrive when we devote time and resources to improving the lives of everyone, and this legislative session the top priority will be passage of a robust bonding bill. The Rochester legislative delegation welcomed the House Capital Investment Committee to town this fall to view our key priorities for the 2024 bonding bill, including Riverfront Public Realm, Graham Park enhancements, and the Resource Recovery and Carbon Capture facility. These projects are very different from one another, but together they outline a vision of using our current resources to improve the resident and visitor experience. Bonding bills create good paying jobs and the projects they fund make our community a better place to live. I intend to be a strong advocate for Rochester projects this legislative session.

Rep. Kim Hicks DISTRICT 25A

Sen. Liz Boldon DISTRICT 25

in Minnesota for years, likely decades, to come. As we head into the 2024 session, I am optimistic that we will continue to make necessary progress on the issues facing working families and our communities, and to build on the successes we had in 2023. With our budget set for the next two years, it’s unlikely we will move forward with much legislation that will carry a significant fiscal impact. However, there is much we can do to ensure a thriving economy for Minnesotans - especially with an additional bonding package and policy changes to move our state and our region forward. As an example on the policy front, I anticipate reforms to some zoning and land-use laws that will allow cities and counties the freedom to build and develop more housing, especially the “missing middle” types of housing supply that an affordable market so desperately needs. As Rochester’s growth continues to outpace our ability to build, a common theme across greater Minnesota, we must continue to find ways to expand our housing stock and improve affordability. As Minnesotans saw in 2023, the era of gridlock is over at the legislature. As we head into 2024, the Senate, the House, and the Governor are working together to deliver for the needs of Minnesotans, and we are excited to keep this positive momentum moving forward in the coming year What is your top focus for the 2024 legislative session? Many of my core priorities this upcoming session focus on Health and Human Services policy issues. For example, working to make childcare more affordable and accessible to all Minnesotans is a top priority, to ensure every child gets the great start they deserve and every parent has the opportunity to pursue their dreams in the workforce. Work on some licensing reforms, as well as a plan to address affordability for middle income families, will come into focus. In addition to childcare, my efforts will also include work that improves access and affordability in mental health and dental care, furthers the development of a public health insurance option that every Minnesotan can access, and continued work on medical debt and reforms to predatory debt collection practices more broadly. I also sit on the Housing and Homelessness Prevention, Education Policy, and Elections committees, and there will be important work on these fronts as well.

What are your expectations for the 2024 legislative session? Are there trends that the business community should be aware of? While I cannot speak to trends, I can emphasize the importance of enhancing our business environment by passage of a bonding bill. Data show a sizable bonding bill creates jobs and make a community a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family. What is your top focus for the 2024 legislative session? This may sound like a broken record, but my top focus will be to ensure the legislature passes, and the governor signs, a bonding bill. For all the reasons listed above, and for the health of the Rochester community, this is the right time to pass a sizable bonding bill

What do you foresee as a key issue impacting the Rochester area business community that can be addressed in the 2024 legislative session? Property taxes are rising particularly quickly in Rochester. This is, in part, due to the lackluster state funding coming to the city of Rochester through Local Government Aid (LGA). Using 2024 as an example, Rochester receives about $32 per capita in LGA, while Duluth enjoys $354 per capita in LGA. I will be dropping a bill to set a $150/per capita floor for LGA that cities of the first class receive, increasing Rochester’s LGA over 350%. This should alleviate the need for higher property tax levies from the city. What are your expectations for the 2024 legislative session? Are there trends that the business community should be aware of? My expectations are high for another extraordinary session of progress. I think our caucus will be focused on continuing to make day-to-day life more affordable for working class families, particularly in childcare and healthcare.

What is your top focus for the 2024 legislative session? Three large bills are on my plate this session, including the LGA Bill I mentioned above. I also have a bill to raise the minimum wage in Minnesota and Tax companies that pay their executives over 500x more than the median employee. As co-chair of the Minnesota Health Plan Caucus I will also be working to expand a healthcare public option for more Minnesotans Rep. Andy Smith DISTRICT 25B

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LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW

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What do you foresee as a key issue impacting the Rochester area business community that can be addressed in the 2024 legislative session? An uncompetitive business climate is a challenge for our area and throughout this state. Minnesota’s nation leading 9.8% business tax rate, workforce shortages and heavy regulatory burdens are impacting employers throughout the area. Regulatory barriers squashed three notable expansions in Minnesota - we saw a loss of 350 new jobs and a loss of $1.2 billion in capital investments. In addition, new mandates like Earned Safe & Sick Time (ESST) and Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) hit employees and their employers with new payroll taxes. Instead of flexible, market-based options that would have worked for everyone, the legislature created one-size-fits-all expensive mandates that hurt workers and employers. Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) is so convoluted that neither employers nor the state know the full cost of the mandate. Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) payroll tax rates have already increased even prior to its 2025 start date! What are your expectations for the 2024 legislative session? Are there trends that the business community should be aware of? I would like to see 2024 be a “fix-it session”. Common sense fixes to Paid Family Medical Leave, Earned Safe and Sick Time, reducing the business tax rate and eliminating the

What do you foresee as a key issue impacting the Rochester area business community that can be addressed in the 2024 legislative session? With the rushed through, with little or no real debate, the major bills that passed last session have extensive problems. Weather it’s workers, schools, parents, farmers, or businesses, the unifying theme is there needs to be fixing or correcting errors/issues in these new laws. It’s not just businesses, I hear from many union members that they want flexibility and options in the major new employment laws/regulations. What are your expectations for the 2024 legislative session? Are there trends that the business community should be aware of? Too many legislators think that if it’s good for the metro, or specific businesses or sectors, it’s good for all. Us in greater MN, especially those near the border with another state, known options and flexibility is key to staying in business, let alone success. What is your top focus for the 2024 legislative session? What I’ve been asking people to do, is write down the problematic things as they come across them, and email that to me, with their suggestions on what would actually work. I take those emails and maintain your actual verbiage when I talk to a revisor while generating bills and amendments to fix the newly passed laws.

Sen. Carla Nelson DISTRICT 24

Rep. Duane Quam DISTRICT 24A

punishing-misnamed- business property tax (whose dollars go straight to the state general fund) should top the list. In addition we must continue to develop career pathways like PTech, Bridges to Health Care, and Construction Career Pathways to train the 1.5M unemployed, working-age Minnesotans for good jobs and allow for generational wealth building. We must address the administration of regulatory burdens to ensure safety with timeliness and efficacy. In a nutshell, it is necessary to make these and other changes to retain, grow and attract new business to our state. The 40% growth in government spending enacted by the 2023 legislature has led to structural looming budget shortfalls in 2026 and beyond. We must look to reign in state spending in order to avoid a budget deficit. Clearly, tax hikes must be off the table. Furthermore, safety of our school students remains a top issue due to the 2023 law that limited school resource officers (SRO) ability to protect students. We still have a number of schools operating without an SRO. Fixing the looming budget deficit, providing relief for working Minnesotans and their employers, and empowering schools by reducing the heavy burden that unfunded mandates have caused will all be top priorities in 2024. What is your top focus for the 2024 legislative session? Having completed the two year fiscal budget in 2023, 2024 is a traditional bonding year. This should be a year to support critical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, clean water, and taking care to prolong the life of our state’s current assets. As a member of the Capital Investment, Taxes, and Jobs committees, I will seek investments in local safety infrastructure projects: Highway 14 interchanges at County State Aid Highway 3 and 5; Dodge Center Northeast Improvement Zone road improvements; Stewartville road improvements; Olmsted County Material Recovery Facility; and the Rochester airport parking improvements. I will also keep an eye to enhancing safety, economic growth and accessibility. Minnesota based companies are expanding in other states at a higher rate than out-of-state companies are expanding in Minnesota. Since 2020, Minnesota has had a net investment deficit of 54 projects, 2,500 jobs and $6.6 billion in capital expenditures! 19,400 Minnesotans fled the state to live elsewhere in the US in 2021-2022, the highest number in at least three decades. Proposing tangible solutions that address these shortfalls and provide employees and employers alike, economic relief, and creating a more sustainable environment for Minnesotans will be a top priority for my colleagues and I in 2024. My hope is that this next session brings a renewed bipartisan effort to address these looming shortfalls and create sustainable, economic growth for all Minnesotans, not just a select few.

It is also key that we fix the future budget, to prevent the $2.6 B projected budget deficit in 2025. It’s best to do that now, instead of putting it off.

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LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW

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What do you foresee as a key issue impacting the Rochester area business community that can be addressed in the 2024 legislative session? Nearly any issue "can" be addressed in 2024. What this question probably implies is what issues can be addressed given a House, Senate and Governor's office that are fully controlled by the Democrat party. It will be interesting to see what the priorities of this legislature will be. I remain hopeful that we can tackle legislation that brings regulatory and tax relief to Minnesota’s businesses. I am committed to reaching across the aisle and finding solutions for our business sector. What are your expectations for the 2024 legislative session? Are there trends that the business community should be aware of? For myself as a Republican, becoming more business friendly, reducing regulatory burdens and bringing tax relief are my top priorities. After watching the Democrat controlled majority squander a $19 billion surplus and add another $10 billion dollars to the tax burden in 2023, it is evident that there is little desire by their party to work across the aisle with Republicans to bring meaningful tax relief to our area businesses. The 2024 session could very likely be dominated once again by social justice issues such as transgender rights, drivers licenses for all, and new state flags, rather than doing the work that truly

Rep. Steve Jacob DISTRICT 20B

benefits our hard working and dedicated business community. I don't look forward to spending another session debating the importance of requiring that menstrual products be available in boys bathrooms at our area public schools, but I certainly would welcome the opportunity to work on meaningful government reform at our Capitol that will benefit our business sector. What is your top focus for the 2024 legislative session? The district that I represent contains more than half of Olmsted County from a geographic standpoint. The district somewhat surrounds the city of Rochester, but it does not contain any of the city proper. Being a fourth generation family farmer who sits on the Ag committee, the Environmental & Natural Resources committee and the Subcommittee of Minnesota Water Policy gives me a clear focus on Agri business and Water quality issues. I intend to introduce legislation that will benefit our area farmers and benefit water quality as well. It is my belief that farmers are the solution to environmental issues and water quality in southeast Minnesota. There is a common misconception that our area farmers intentionally over apply synthetic fertilizer and organic manure. It is in the farmer's best interest to be as efficient as possible in order to make a profit. There is no incentive to over apply fertilizers. If you eat today, please remember to thank a farmer.

18 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — FEBRUARY 2024

WILLOW CREEK GOLF COURSE

Meet the Member

With scenic backdrops, the Willow Creek Event Center is the perfect place for weddings, wedding receptions, holiday parties, business meetings, banquets, or any of your private party needs.

Meet the Member: Willow Creek Golf

enjoyed our Event Center being fully open and operational the past two years. Getting to know the Willow Creek GC community, and welcoming new players to our Willow Creek family has been fantastic. We are extremely excited for our continued growth in the years to come. Q: Willow Creek Golf Course & Event Center has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for four years. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization? A: Just to be a part of a community organization like the Chamber of Commerce is truly an honor. Being able to make connections with other small business owners and operators thru Chamber events is something that is truly beneficial to any business’s growth. Having the privilege of hosting the Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament at Willow Creek is something that we take pride in and look forward to seeing all of the Chamber members out here this year. Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Willow Creek Golf Course & Event Center? A: FootGolf is unique offering that Willow Creek provides to our community. For those that may not be aware, FootGolf is blend of soccer and golf. We have integrated a 9-hole FootGolf course into our Little Willow Short Course. In addition to a 4-inch cup on the green for the golfers, there is a 2-foot hole near each green for our FootGolfers

to kick their soccer balls into. This has become a very popular activity for birthday parties, as well as a fun excursion for soccer teams & organizations. Q: What is the outlook for your business and industry? A: The golf industry is in a surge since COVID and all indicators show that we can continue to grow the game for many years to come. We feel that Willow Creek has many unique characteristics that set our Event Center apart from others. We have seen increases over the past couple years, not only in the traditional events (weddings, business meetings, golf tournaments, etc.), but also in graduation parties, quinceaneras and holiday parties. Making a guest’s “special day” memorable is a responsibility that all of us here at Willow Creek take pride in.

Course & Event Center Each month, we learn from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook

If golf is your cup of tee and you enjoy championship golf couses, consider Willow Creek Golf & Event Center for your next round of golf. They are located just minutes from downtown Rochester with a championship 18 hole and executive 9 hole golf courses. We spoke Willow Creek Golf & Event Center Course Owners, Will Lancaster PGA and Andy Black PGA to learn more. Q: Tell us about Willow Creek Golf Course & Event Center. What does your company offer to the Rochester region? A: Willow Creek Golf & Event Center is the only 27 hole golf facility in SE Minnesota. In addition to our 18 hole championship golf course, we do offer Little Willow (our par 29 “short” course). Little Willow is the perfect place for those just starting their journey in golf or for

those that would love to get in a quick 9 holes. With scenic backdrops cherished by guests & photographers, the Willow Creek Event Center is the perfect place for weddings, wedding receptions, holiday parties, business meetings, banquets, or any of your private party needs. Q: How did it start for Willow Creek Golf Course & Event Center? A : In January of 2020, we had the opportunity to realize one of our lifelong professional dreams of golf course ownership. Having been PGA professionals for almost 20 years, to say the golf business is a passion to us would be an understatement and being able to put our own “stamp” on a staple in the community like Willow Creek has been amazing. Although COVID-19 did force us to get creative for the better part of our first couple years, we have really

To learn more about Willow Creek Golf Course, visit www.willowcreekgolfmn.com

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