The TSP team brings together the expertise, talent, and abilities to result in a successful project - and a rewarding experience for those with whom we collaborate. We share a passion for creating community spaces that are cost-effective, enduring, and responsive to your needs.
Ryan Parsons 507-288-1122
Chamber President Director of Member Engagement Todd McIlrath 507-424-5662
Membership Development Director Brent Ackerman 507-424-5666
Membership Director Kali Aldrich 507-424-5665
Director of Operations Cheryl Krage
Public Affairs & Leadership Development Director
Jonathon Krull 507-424-5677
Membership Director Tim Shea 507-424-5663
Events & Program Director Ally Sheehan 507-424-5687
Administrative Assistant Communications & Design Director
CHAMBER BOARD OFFICERS
Chair of the Board Treasurer John Eckerman RSP Architects
Vice Chair Scott Eggert Broadway Plaza
At Large Steve Dunn Taco JED
CHAMBER BOARD MEMBERS
Cherie Thurlow 507-288-1122
Sophia van Oss 507-424-5661
Jessica Eidem IBM Corporation
Secretary Dr. Christine Beech Copiavia
Santhi Arunachalam
Chad Behnken
Christy Blade
Dr. Jeffrey Boyd
Dr. Lori Carrell
Heather Donovan
Abel Garcia
Doug Holtan
Xylo Technologies Inc.
Jarett Jones
Merchants Bank
Individual
Rochester Community & Tech. College
Hamilton Real Estate University of Minnesota - Rochester
Sterling State Bank
Remodeling D.L, LLC
Mayo Clinic
The Chamber promotes business success which supports a thriving community.
Marge Kelley
Omar Nur
Sylwia Bujak Oliver
David Pederson
Jack Priggen
Nikki Mensing
Gwen Stevens
Gillette Pepsi of Rochester
125 Live Somali American Social Service Assoc.
Dunlap & Seeger, P.A.
Cardinal of MN, LTD.
Olmsted Medical Center
People’s Energy Cooperative
Rochester-area
empowered
collaborative climate.
For the first time in many years, Rochester’s real estate professionals are not gearing up for a redhot year of real estate transactions and property development. Instead, economic uncertainty, rising interest rates, and low inventory has weakened the local outlook for 2023, and although few are preparing for the worst, most experts say caution will rule the residential real estate market.
For the past few years the residential real estate market – both nationally and in the Rochester region – has “wowed” real estate professionals, property investors and developers alike. But cruising on a high-octane mix of very low interest rates, a booming economy, and low inventory rates can only last so long. Like the stock market, the residential real estate market was in need for a correction.
Michelle Jandt, 2023 Southeastern Minnesota Realtors (SEMN) President, along with the SEMN executive committee members, Karl Rogers, Adam Howell, and Joe Skime, provided their insights into the Rochester regional residential real estate marketplace.
“Looking back on ‘21 and ‘22 we saw the typical and recent trends of prices increasing and inventory remaining relatively low,” the SEMN executive committee says. “There was a big shift in the summer of ‘22 with interest rate hikes. The latter part of the year did slow down with buyer activity. However, we are still seeing multiple offers.”
Eric Brownlow, association executive and government affairs director at Southeast Minnesota Realtors (SEMR), added that rising interest rates have become a challenge over the last year. That said, he says today’s rate is a temporary stitch in time.
“The average net worth of a homeowner is 40+ times more than the average renter,” Brownlow says. “Beyond simple wealth building, homeownership provides stability and a heightened sense of community pride and involvement.”
Today, there are 181 single family/condo/ townhomes actives for sale in Rochester. Last year at this time, Rochester had fallen below 100.
Brownlow points to the Southeast Minnesota Realtors most recent monthly indicator report which states that, in its continued effort to curb inflation, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate in February 2023 by a quarter-percentage point to 4.50% - 4.75%, its 8th rate hike since March of 2022, when the interest rate was nearly zero.
“Mortgage interest rates have dipped slightly from their peak last fall, leading pending sales to increase 8.1% month-to-month as of last measure, but affordability constraints continue to limit homebuyer activity overall, with existing-home sales declining for the twelfth consecutive month, according to the National Association of Realtors®,” the report says.
In Southeastern Minnesota, including the Rochester region, new residential listings were down 26.7 percent to 300 and pending sales decreased 24.4 percent to 303. Inventory grew 23.1 percent to 592 units.
Also home prices moved lower as the median sales price was down 5.0 percent to $242,163. The days on market increased 16.3 percent to 57 days and month’s supply of inventory was up 44.4 percent to 1.3 months.
According to the Southeast Minnesota Realtors indicators report, “with buyer demand down from peak levels, home price growth has continued to slow nationwide, although prices remain up from a year ago. Sellers have been increasingly cutting prices and offering sales incentives in an attempt to attract buyers, who have continued to struggle with affordability challenges this winter.”
Jandt and the rest of the SEMN executive committee say that Rochester is a bit more of an economically protected environment. “We have heard in some larger markets the prices are taking much more of a hit and seeing more price corrections and longer days on the market,” the committee says. dependent residential real estate arena.
So far in 2023, the Rochester real estate market has experienced an interesting start to the spring market, with continued low inventory conditions. As Jandt points out, buyers are getting more accustomed to the higher interest rates and some are finding creative solutions with 2-1 or 3-2-1 internet buy downs… especially making an upfront payment to interest, and ideally “seller paid” with it being wrapped in the mortgage.
“We hope for an increase in supply to help our consistent buyer demands,” the SEMN executive committee says. “The most challenging for this year is clearly inventory. Also, the timing of when in the week homes hit the market is playing a factor as well.” The majority of sellers in hotter price ranges ($250k-$400k) are using the “coming soon” status and letting the listing go live on a Friday and hoping for a first weekend sale. Other key and obvious challenges are around affordable housing – both for preexisting and new construction home categories.
“I feel if we encourage sellers to list their home and allow for showings it can help level the playing field,” Jandt says. “Then not all buyers are in a weekendonly home shopping mode and inventory is spread more throughout the week.”
Right infographic source: Minnesota Realtors ® www.mnrealtor.com/buyers-sellers/marketreports
Year to date through Feb. 2023
-20.7% One-Year Change in New Listings
-31.4% One-Year Change in Closed Sales
-2.8%
One-Year Change in Median Sales Price
+10.4% One-Year Change in Days on the Market
As the Rochester real estate market continues to follow the earthly tenet that what goes up must come down, most experts agree that we are in limbo stage, with everyone standing on the sidelines, waiting for someone to call the next play.
As we’ve seen, the residential real estate market is particularly sensitive to economic uneasiness. And like the stock market, real estate has its cycles, particularly the capital-intensive, interest ratedependent residential real estate arena.
“Although the long-term inventory is not where it needs to be,” Brownlow says, “we are seeing more stabilization in inventory numbers.”
Although the long-term inventory is not where it needs to be, we are seeing more stabilization in inventory numbers.
As Laura Ingalls Wilder once wrote, “home is the nicest word there is”. Dewitz Home Builders, a local family-owned business, has been making that ring true for over 65 years. To learn more, we spoke with Jean DeWitz.
Q: Tell us about DeWitz Home Builders. What does your company offer to the Rochester region?
A: DeWitz Home Builders has been building workforce housing for over 60 years. My father was a true champion of the American dream of home ownership! We have built over 3000 affordable homes in Rochester.
Q: How did it start for DeWitz Home Builders?
A: My father, Robert DeWitz, started the business in 1957. He started out doing concrete work. After a number of years, this work turned into poured foundation walls, home building and land development.
Q: DeWitz Home Builders became a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce in 1976. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization?
A: Being a part of the Chamber and other local business associations has allowed us to network within the business community. When you are in business, building relationships with your work force and other like minded individuals is critical to success. The Chamber also goes to bat for business when dealing with local and state policies and regulations that affect operating a business in Minnesota.
Q: What is a unique fact people should know about DeWitz Home Builders?
A: We have been a family run business. All five of his children have worked for the company. Of his children, Julie, Jean and Chuck are still involved. We are currently on the 3rd generation of family members who work for DeWitz Home Builders!
Q: What is the outlook for your business and industry?
A: Building workforce housing is getting more challenging every year. Land cost, infrastructure, local, state, and national regulations have all had a huge impact on why it is so difficult to build
affordable housing. During Covid, we saw the cost of consumer goods and commodities such as lumber skyrocket in cost. This all impacts the cost of constructions and why we have a tremendous shortage of affordable housing throughout the nation.
At DeWitz Home Builders, we have adjusted to try to offset the rising cost of home ownership. We now offer compact lots to help lower the cost of a building site. We will build a home with the lower level unfinished so the homeowner can finish themselves to build equity. We stay active with local and state policies that affect the rising cost of home ownership. We know that owning a home is the single most creator of wealth for Americans. We will do everything we possibly can to make sure future generations are able to enjoy the benefit of homeownership.
To learn more about DeWitz Home Builders, visit them online at www.dewitz.com
Connect about the legislative session and issues that are impacting area businesses.
The annual Legislative Update highlights the current Minnesota legislative session and the issues that are impacting area businesses and organizations. Featuring regional legislators Senator Boldon, Senator Nelson, Representative Jacob, and Representative Smith as panelists, and Commissioner Daubenberger of MNDOT delivering remarks, this event connects Chamber members directly with the decision makers in St. Paul for information and discussion on the legislative session.
Agenda: Legislative Panel Discussion
Moderator – Jon Olson, Vice President of University Advancement, Winona State University
• Senator Liz Boldon, District 25
• Senator Carla Nelson, District 24
• Representative Steven Jacob, District 20B
• Representative Andy Smith, District 25B
Legislative Update: Minnesota Department of Transportation – Legislative Perspective, Priorities, and Outlook
• Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger, Minnesota Department of Transportation
*Additional panelists to be announced. Agenda subject to change.
Registration closed - Learn more here: http://bit.ly/3EH9wSU
Date: Wednesday, April 5, 2023
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm
Location: The Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area, 10 E Center St., Rochester
Admission: $40 for members, $50 for general admission, registration required
Presenting Sponsors:
Gold Sponsor:
Silver Sponsor:
PHARMACEUTICAL SPECIALTIES, INC.
Table Sponsors:
Bolton & Menk| Charter Communications | EVEN Hotels
Hawkins Ash CPAs | PossAbilities | Reagan Outdoor Advertising
Rochester Community and Technical College
Rochester Motor Cars | RSP Architects | Wells Fargo
Learn the City, County, Parks Department and Public Schools priorities for 2023
Join Rochester representatives from the City, the County, the Parks Department and the Public Schools to hear about their upcoming 2023 initiatives, programs, and priorities during Local Government Connect! This event is a great place to hear from these different Rochester Community entities as they present out on brief updates and answer questions on issues impacting our local business community.
Agenda:
Olmsted County Update
• Olmsted County Administrator Heidi Welsch
• Olmsted County Commissioner Gregg Wright, Third District
City of Rochester Update
• Rochester City Administrator Alison Zelms
• Council President Brooke Carlson
City of Rochester Parks Department Update
• Director of Parks and Recreation Paul Widman
Rochester Public Schools
• Rochester Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kent Pekel
• Rochester Public Schools Chair Cathy Nathan
Q&A
Register here: http://bit.ly/3LWVBfU
Date: Tuesday, April 25, 2023
Time: 7:30am-10:00am
Location: Rochester Golf & Country Club, 3100 Country Club Rd SW, Rochester
Admission: $40 for members, $50 for general admission, registration required by April 18th
Presenting Sponsors:
Gold Sponsor:
Silver Sponsors: Media Sponsor:
Table Sponsors: Bolton & Menk, Inc.
EVEN Hotels & Staybridge Suites St. Marys Area
hosted by
AM Espresso is a monthly Networking PLUS event brought to you by the Chamber. Come join fellow Chamber and community members to expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy delicious breakfast refreshments. We believe there is value for all in building a supportive business community. As the local economy shifts towards recovery, it is more important than ever to interact with each other to share ideas and best practices.
This month, join us at 125 LIVE! 125 LIVE is a social and fitness facility for anyone 18 years and older. They provide a wide variety of physical, social, and intellectual opportunities to engage our community’s minds and bodies. Through extensive programming, fitness amenities, gathering spaces, and personal health resources, 125 LIVE provides opportunities for all adults to embark on their journey to “aging successfully.”
Date: Friday, April 14, 2023
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: 125 LIVE, 125 Elton Hills Dr. NW, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration requested
Register here: http://bit.ly/3ynpyOf
hosted by
Join us for Business after Hours (BAH), a monthly networking function which brings professionals together to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses and organizations operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads.
Come and connect, expand your network, and build community with the DMC team at Two Discovery Square! Destination Medical Center (DMC) is a robust 20-year $5.6 billion economic development initiative. The largest in Minnesota’s history, DMC is designed to position Minnesota as a global center for the highest quality medical care and to generate high-value jobs, new tax revenue, and businesses.
Date: Thursday, April 27, 2023
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Two Discovery Square, 209 5th St SW, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration requested
Register here: http://bit.ly/3LCC1Fp
Employers and community partners throughout Southeast Minnesota are invited to attend the 2023 Workforce Development Forum. Join us as we explore ways to build, invigorate, and invest in workforce development and the Southeast Minnesota regional economy.
The Chamber, Workforce Development, Inc., Winona Workforce Development Board and CareerForce will host this event featuring two keynote speakers and the Best Places to Work program.
Agenda:
• Arrival & Networking
• Welcome, Lunch & Keynote Speakers
• Employer Panel Discussion
• Best Places to Work Celebration & Awards
• Social Hour & Networking
Keynote Speakers:
• Gerry Hoeffner, President, Personnel Dynamics Consulting Group & Best Places to Work Program
• Ron Painter, President, National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB)
Date: Thursday, April 27 2023
Time: 11:30am-4:30pm
Location: Rochester International Airport, 7333 Airport View Drive SW, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration required
Register here: https://bit.ly/3DKUaMK
Eggs and Issues is a long-standing series presented by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce that provides opportunities for member businesses to learn about and discuss the issues that impact their businesses and the community.
The latest installment of the Eggs and Issues series will focus on the talent pipeline and workforce. Join us on Wednesday, May 17th, 2023 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. as Caitlin Codella Low, Vice President, Policy and Programs and Kyle Butler, Manager, Programs from the US Chamber’s Center for Education and Workforce present and discusses the importance of the talent pipeline when it comes to workforce development.
Date: Wednesday, May 17, 2023
Time: 8:30am-10:00am
Location: IBM, Building 25 - IBM Lobby, 2800 37th St. NW, Rochester
Admission: $15 for members, $30 for general admission, registration required
Register here: http://bit.ly/40jVlf0
Presenting Sponsors:
Session Sponsors:
Help us empower today’s youth to be tomorrow’s entrepreneurs!
Main Squeeze Sponsor:
Lemonade Day is a free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches local youth entrepreneurial and life skills as they learn how to start their very own business. Learn how to develop a business and experience all the aspects of developing and maintaining a business such as creating a product, establishing a budget, designing a marketing plan, and so much more!
The foremost objective of Lemonade Day is to empower youth to take ownership of their lives and become productive members of society – the business leaders, social advocates, volunteers, and forward thinking citizens of tomorrow.
Each child that registers receives access to the Lemonade Day curriculum that teaches them lessons like creating budgets, setting profit-making goals, serving customers, repaying investors, and giving back to the community. Along the way, they acquire skills in goal-setting, problem solving, and gain self-esteem critical for future success. They keep all the money they make and are encouraged to spend some, save some and share some.
Date: Saturday, June 10, 2023
Location: Rochester, MN
Admission: Free, registration required
Register your young entrepreneur today!
lemonadeday.org/rochester-mn
Fresh Squeeze Sponsor:
Chip Shots
Lemon Drop Sponsor:
Radio Media Sponsor:
Lemon Twist Sponsor:
F & M Community Bank
Home Federal Savings Bank
People’s Energy Cooperative
People’s Food Co-op
Rochester Women Magazine
Sylvan Learning of Rochester
AM Espresso is a monthly Networking PLUS event brought to you by the Chamber. Come join fellow Chamber and community members to expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy delicious breakfast refreshments. We believe there is value for all in building a supportive business community. As the local economy shifts towards recovery, it is more important than ever to interact with each other to share ideas and best practices.
This month, join us at North Rock Hospitality! North Rock Real Estate is an entrepreneurial commercial real estate firm who takes an innovative approach to all project processes. With their expertise, clients can expect real estate strategies of all types, sizes and objectives to be delivered with confidence and results.
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Residence Inn, 809 16th St SW Rochester
Admission: Free, registration requested
Register here: http://bit.ly/3zdqaGN
Join us for Business after Hours (BAH), a monthly networking function which brings professionals together to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses and organizations operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads.
Since 1990, Haley Comfort Systems has grown to provide our community with a wide variety of solutions for our homes. They offer the latest trends and technology in HVAC, Fireplaces, Lighting, Plumbing, and Electric.
Come and connect, make new connections, expand your network, and build community while enjoying the space at Haley Comfort Systems.
Date: Thursday, May 18, 2023
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Haley Comfort Systems, 3708 N Broadway Ave, Suite 150
Admission: Free, registration requested
Register here: http://bit.ly/404GKnY
The Chamber’s un-fore-gettable Annual Golf Outing is coming soon!
Even though teams are sold out there are still ways to get involved with sponsorships!
Interested in becoming a sponsor?
Contact Ally Sheehan at asheehan@RochesterMNChamber.com
The Annual Chamber Golf Outing will take place on Wednesday, June 21st at the beautiful Willow Creek Golf Course! Gather your team of four and register for this premier event.
The day will be filled with great networking, good food and exciting golf. The team with the lowest score will be awarded the President’s Cup. Put your golf score to the test of our three time reigning champions - Merchants Bank!
Agenda:
• Registration: 9:30AM - 11:00AM
• Shotgun Start: 11:00AM
• Dinner and Awards: 5:00PM - 7:00PM
Date: Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Time: 9:30am-7:00pm
Location: Willow Creek Golf Course
1700 48th ST SW, Rochester
Admission: SOLD OUT! If you missed sign up but would like to be on the waitlist, please contact Ally Sheehan at asheehan@rochestermnchamber.com
Learn more here: http://bit.ly/3FFp2PA
Eagle Sponsors:
Birdie Sponsors:
Lunch & Dinner Sponsor: Drink Cart Sponsor:
Tee Gift Sponsor:
Altra Federal Credit Union
CLA
Custom Alarm
DBS Group, LLC
EVEN Hotels / Staybridge Suites
F & M Community Bank
KIMT-TV
KNXR - Minnesota 97.5
La Crosse Sign Group
Hole Sponsors:
Driving Range Sponsor:
Labovitz MBA - U of M
Northwestern Mutual
Olmsted Medical Center
ONB Bank
Premier Bank Minnesota
Reagan Outdoor Advertising
Think Bank
TownePlace Suites
Weller Brothers Landscaping
Annual Celebration was an event for the ages!
We sang, laughed and danced away on March 2nd (some on stage too)! Thank you all who joined us for a night of networking, dueling pianos, great food and drinks. We had a ton of fun celebrating the success and growth of the business community in the Rochester region. As the most attended Annual Celebration in Chamber history with over 700 attendees, this event was one for the books!
Also, congratulations to Dani at CAPS Kitchen & Bath for being voted by her peers as the 2022 Ambassador of the Year!
Special thank you to our sponsors (right) for supporting this event. Thank you also to Fun Pianos! for a great show!
APRIL
05 Legislative Update
Date: Wednesday, April 5
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area
$50 for general, $40 for members Registration required
14 AM Espresso - 125 LIVE
Date: Friday, April 14
Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: 125 LIVE FREE - Registration requested
20 WE Forum - Workshop
Date: Thursday, April 20
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus
FREE - Registration required for lunch
21 Women’s Roundtable
Date: Friday, April 21
Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus
FREE - Registration required
25 Local Government
Connect
Date: Tuesday, April 25
Time: 8:00am-10:00am Location: Rochester Golf & Country Club
$40 for members, $50 for general admission - Registration required
27 Hospitality 1st Roundtable
Date: Thursday, April 27
Time: 9:30am-11:00am
Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Conference Room
FREE - Registration required
27 2023 Workforce
Development Forum
Date: Thursday, April 27
Time: 11:30am-4:30pm
Location: Rochester International Event Center
FREE - Registration required
27 Business After HoursDMC
Date: Thursday, April 27
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Two Discovery Square
FREE - Registration requested
MAY
5 AM Espresso - North Rock
Real Estate
Date: Friday, May 5 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Residence Inn
FREE - Registration requested
17 Eggs & Issues
Date: Wednesday, May 17
Time: 8:30am-10:00am
Location: IBM, Building 25
$15 for members, $30 for general admission - Registration required
18 Business After HoursHaley Comfort Systems
Date: Thursday, May 18
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Haley Comfort Systems
FREE - Registration requested
18
WE Forum - Social Connect
Date: Thursday, May 18
Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm Location: Little Thistle
FREE - Registration required
19 Women’s Roundtable
Date: Friday, May 19
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Conference Room
FREE - Registration required
JUNE
2 AM Espresso - TSP
Date: Friday, June 2
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: TSP
FREE - Registration requested
9 Chamber Weekend Kickoff
Date: Friday, June 9
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm
Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus
FREE - Registration requested
10 Lemonade Day
Date: Saturday, June 10
Location: Rochester, MN
15 WE Forum - Panel
Date: Thursday, June 15
Time: 8:00am-9:00am
Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus
FREE - Registration required
15 Business After HoursHotel Indigo
Date: Thursday, June 15
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Hotel Indigo
FREE - Registration requested
16 Women’s Roundtable
Date: Friday, June 16
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Conference Room
FREE - Registration required
Since 1987, this program has propelled leaders in the community to further be inspired, connected and enlightened. 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.
Applications are now open for the 2023-2024 Leadership Greater Rochester class and will close on May 26. Leadership Greater Rochester is the Chamber’s premier leadership development program.
This 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. Through enriching conversations, behind-the-scenes tours, and work on the Community Impact Project, the LGR experience builds lifelong relationships and provides opportunities for business and community leaders to shape and contribute to the fabric of the greater Rochester area.
April 4th, was the final committee deadline for the 2023 legislative session. This deadline signals the end of most committee work as legislators gear up for a busy final month of the session. During this final stretch, the Chamber will remain active in its advocacy for our member businesses and our legislative priorities.
Recently the Paid Family and Medical Leave legislation (HF2/SF2) has undergone a few revisions. Despite these revisions, the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce along with a coalition of Rochester area businesses remain opposed to House File 2 and Senate File 2 as it is currently written. While there have been attempts to amend the legislation, work still needs to be done to ensure that the bill will not harm the business community.
This legislation would mandate a one-size-fits all, state administered program, of up to 12 weeks of paid family leave and up to 12 weeks of paid medical leave on the business community. The current workforce environment is strained, with talent attraction being a key struggle for employers. Coupled with the paid sick and safe time act (HF19/ SF34), the impact of the mandate will only be exacerbated. We ask that the legislature consider these concerns of the business community. To address these issues, we recommend the following amendments to the legislation:
• Cap the program at a maximum of 12 weeks paid leave
• Match the definition of a “family member’ to the existing definition in the federal Family and Medical Leave Act
• Amend the legislation to avoid a one-size fits all mandate
Given the implications of this bill amidst the challenges that our businesses currently face, we urge the business community to contact your Legislator and encourage them to VOTE NO on House File 2 and Senate File 2 as it is currently written.
In early March the House passed the bonding bill (HF669) which included support for the various Rochester and Olmsted County bonding requests, clearing the 2/3 majority threshold needed to pass. However, its companion bill in the Senate (SF676) failed to clear the 2/3 majority needed and after multiple failed votes it was tabled by a 51-15 vote.
The DFL has proposed the idea of moving to use cash for the bonding projects which would only require a simple majority to pass. While this proposal would fund a majority of the Rochester and Olmsted County bonding projects, the bonding authority extension for Rochester International Airport (currently HF265/SF715), a key legislative priority of the Chamber, may not be included.
The appropriation of funds for the Southeast Minnesota Simulation Center is a key priority in the Chamber’s legislative agenda. We continue to advocate for the funding of the simulation center as it would make a great impact on workforce needs, specifically in the field of nursing. Recently the Chamber wrote a letter to the area delegation to share with our support for House File 2521 and Senate File 2452 which would appropriate funds for the simulation center.
session.
The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 2023 Nominating Committee. Thank you to the following business leaders who have volunteered to serve on the committee to select new Directors joining the Chamber Board of Directors in October 2023:
The Chamber is currently seeking nominations of area business community leaders to serve on the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
To forward a nomination or to learn more, please contact Ryan Parsons at rparsons@rochestermnchamber.com.
The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes two new ambassadors:
• Matt Brouillard, Foresight Bank
• Brittney Marschall, Olmsted Medical Center
About the Chamber Ambassadors
The Rochester Area Chamber Ambassadors are a group of local business representatives from a diverse area of sectors who are committed to promoting Chamber activities and membership.
To learn more and view a full listing of the Chamber’s ambassadors visit: www.rochestermnchamber.com/about/ chamber-ambassadors
Minnesota Employment and Economic Development announces
is signaling a strong start to 2023
Minnesota gained 14,100 jobs over the month in January, up 0.5%, on a seasonally adjusted basis, according to numbers released by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The state’s private sector gained 12,000 jobs, also up 0.5%. From December to January, Minnesota’s unemployment rate stayed at 2.9% and the labor force participation rate remained at 68.1%, after revisions that are made every year at this time.
“Our biggest month-to-month job growth in nearly a year indicates our labor market is still very tight but not so tight as to greatly constrain job growth,” said DEED Labor Market Information Director Angelina Nguyen. “This is good news for employers and job seekers.”
Over the month in Minnesota, eight supersectors gained jobs on a seasonally adjusted basis from December to January, including notable growth in the following:
• Construction gained 2,200 jobs, 1.7%
• Trade, Transportation, and Utilities gained 1,300 jobs, up 0.2%
• Professional & Business Services gained 6,600 jobs, up 1.7%
• Education and Health Services gained 2,000 jobs, up 0.4%
• Government gained 2,100 jobs, up 0.5%
Over the year, Minnesota gained 68,807 payroll jobs, up 2.4%. The private sector gained 60,741 jobs, up 2.5% over the year. These gains put total nonfarm employment 29,504 jobs short of January 2020 employment and 15,134 jobs short in the private sector.
All supersectors posted positive annual growth except one. These are the noteworthy changes:
• Leisure & Hospitality continued strong recovery from the pandemic, posting the largest growth (up 20,770 jobs) and outpaced the national rate (8.9% in MN, 8.3% in the US). This growth was driven by double-digit percentage increases in Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation, and Accommodation.
• Education & Health Services saw the second largest over-the-year growth, up 14,461 jobs (2.7%), mostly driven by growth in Ambulatory Health Care Services, Nursing and Residential Care Facilities, and Social Assistance. However, Minnesota’s job growth in this supersector is lower than that of the US, 2.7% vs. 4.2%.
• Trade, Transportation & Utilities saw healthy growth, adding 9,235 jobs (1.8%), outpacing the US by 0.1%. Growth was driven by Building Material and Garden Equipment Dealers, Transportation and Warehousing, and Sporting Goods, Hobby, Musical Instruments and Miscellaneous Retailers, in spite of declines in General Merchandise Retailers and Department Stores.
• Manufacturing was up 7,519 jobs (2.4%). Information grew 3.2% with 1,444 more jobs.
• Government posted positive growth over the year, up 8,066 jobs (2%).
• Mining & Logging was the only supersector that saw negative growth, a negligible 25 jobs loss (0.4%)
Read more at http://bit.ly/3Z7NmAq
Initial report on themes for the community-based action plan has been released
Following work sessions in March, the Downtown Rochester Task Force is announcing four major themes heard from the downtown community in response to the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on downtown Rochester.
The Downtown Rochester Task Force invited the community and downtown businesses to participate in one of four work sessions to share specific challenges they are experiencing related to downtown. Attendees shared concerns and ideas for moving forward during the facilitated discussions to inform the building of a communitybased action plan.
The Task Force shared initial findings from the working sessions.
Feedback was grouped into four major themes:
• Promotion, Activation, and Programming
• Access to Downtown
• Barriers to Doing Business
• Growing Downtown
We invite you to join us at one of the upcoming working sessions in April, where we will build a community-based action plan to solve the identified challenges. More information about dates will be shared in the near future.
View the report at http://bit.ly/40JApy9
Rochester’s popular bikeshare grant program is set to return for a second and final time in 2023. In addition to individual bike grants, community organizations, non-profits, and affordable housing developments seeking a small fleet of bikes to host their own bike share are eligible to apply. In total, the City is granting 50 refurbished bicycles.
Interested parties must complete a short application; applications are due by Wednesday, April 26. The bikes will be provided to grantees in early May following completion of basic bike maintenance training.
The links below provide additional information and grant applications:
• Organizational Bike Grant Form: http://bit.ly/434OlEO
• Individual Bike Grant Form: http://bit.ly/3GnHXPb
Initially offered in 2020, 100 bikes from the bike share program were granted to community organizations and individual residents. With the sun setting of the bike share program previously hosted at the Rochester Public Library, the remaining bikes will be once again be offered to the community through the bikeshare grant. The City and partners are evaluating other options to offer micro-mobility through the Rochester Public Library.
Bike sharing in Rochester dates back to 2016 and has been free for users since 2018 when the City took over Nice Ride Minnesota’s Rochester bicycle fleet. Collaborators who helped keep the bikes maintained and free for use include the City of Rochester Parks and Recreation, Experience Rochester, Olmsted County Statewide Health Improvement Partnership, Mayo Clinic, Rochester Public Library, Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency, and We Bike Rochester.
The Rochester Fire Department (RFD) announced Holly Mulholland as the newest Deputy Fire Chief. Mulholland has been with RFD for almost 15 years and she is the first woman to serve in the Deputy Chief role. The role provides leadership and strategic direction for the overall operation and administration of RFD and may assume the role of Fire Chief in their absence.
Rochester International Airport (RST) welcomes Mary Gastner as their new marketing communications manager. Gastner has more than twenty years of experience, most recently as the marketing director for Tech Impact. Prior to that, she held dual roles of interim executive director and marketing and communications with Experience Rochester.
Image360 has opened is doors at 2973 43rd Street NW Suite 110. As a provider of custom graphic solutions to area businesses and organizations, Image360 is proud to be Rochester’s resource for delivering exceptional brand identity and visual communication. The Rochester location is co-owned by business partners Dale Roberts and Ambro Alvarado, who is longtime owner of two of the Center’s sister businesses in the area.
AOS Carpentry has rebranded to AOS Home Solutions to better reflect our company’s expanded services as a General Contractor. The new name highlights our commitment to providing comprehensive home solutions such as remodeling, renovations, and repairs. The rebranding represents a strategic move to better serve our client’s needs.
In addition to the powerful energy healing practice of Reiki, Reiki Master, Kim Juen, is now integrating Color Therapy Chakra Balancing where color is used to create equilibrium within our chakras. Additionally, she is an intuitive Angel Card Reader, receiving messages to provide guidance, insight & clarity from your angels through personalized Angel Card Readings. Visit AwakenGratitude.org
Have
The Realty Edge Team celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on February 8th. Realtor and Co-Team Leader, Dan Kingsley cut the ribbon.
300 1st Ave NW, Suite 200, Rochester www.therealtyedge.com
Carroll’s Corn celebrated their 30 year anniversary with a ribbon cutting on February 13th. Owner, Seamus Kolb cut the ribbon.
20 2nd Ave. SW, Suite B12, Rochester
www.carrollscorn.com
Mayo Clinic Store celebrated the grand opening of their Rochester Crossroads location with a ribbon cutting on February 16th. Regional Manager, Aaron Johnson cut the ribbon.
1201 Broadway Ave S, Suite 36, Rochester www.store.mayoclinic.com
LRS of Minnesota celebrated their 1 year anniversary with a ribbon cutting on March 14th. General Manager, David Meyer cut the ribbon.
4245 HWY 14 E, Rochester
www.lrsrecycles.com
Want to advertise your business to over 1,200 businesses and 6,000 readers? Ask us about advertising in this Chamber Advantage magazine!
For more information, please contact Brent Ackerman at backerman@rochestermnchamber.com.
MCFC - Med City Fighting Championships
Matt Vogt (810) 293-3766
www.mcfccombat.com
Guide Your Heart
Kristine Stensland (507) 923-6105
www.guideyourheart.org
Sandy Anderson Consulting & Coaching
Sandy Anderson, MS (507) 440-2390
308 4th Ave NW, Suite 10, Austin www.sandyandersonconsulting.com
Salo
Dawn Clarin (651) 283-7354
701 N Washington Ave. , Ste 500, Minneapolis www.hellosalo.com
Levels
Daniel Johnson (507) 322-6164
Mall of America and Apache Mall www.levelsfashion.com
Transitions: Therapy, Assessment, Mediation
Deb Moran (507) 288-5818
975 34th Ave. NW, Suite 215, Rochester www.transitionstherapies.com
Image360 Rochester
Dale Roberts
(507) 396-4500
2973 43rd St NW, Suite 110, Rochester www.image360rochestermn.com
Wells Fargo Advisors
Ian Scheerer (507) 285-3065
21 First Street SW, 6th Floor, Rochester
www.wellsfargoadvisors.com
Fluid Interiors
Michaela McCluskey (612) 746-8779
100 North 6th Street, Suite 100-A, Minneapolis www.fluidinteriors.com
Titanic Times
Loring Stead (507) 358-2961
www.titanictimes.org
Stead and Stead Real Estate
Pam Stead (507) 358-2960
www.facebook.com/@Real-Estate-Rochester-MN-PamStead-100067833226535/
Prairie Island Indian Community Ross Brockman (651) 385-4124
5636 Sturgeon Lake Rd. Welch www.prairieisland.org
Rochester Thai Garden
Janphen Seeley (507) 269-6309
100 1st Ave SW Rochester
www.thaigardenrochester.com
Seven Medicine TCM Healing Clinic
Kristina Gacesa (507) 312-6998
300 3rd Ave SE, Rochester www.sevenmedicine.com
Do you know of a business that has recently opened in Rochester? Are you connected to a business-owner looking to expand their network? Then a Chamber membership is right for them! Please contact chamber@rochestermnchamber.com with any referrals.
507-288-1122
www.RochesterMNChamber.com