Advantage Magazine | June 2023

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CHAMBER PRESIDENT

Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Brent Ackerman | 507-424-5666

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665

Chamber Staff

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Cheryl Krage

PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Tim Shea | 507-424-5663

Chamber Board Officers

EVENTS & PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Ally Sheehan | 507-424-5687

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Cherie Thurlow | 507-288-1122

COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN DIRECTOR

Sophia van Oss | 507-424-5661

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

John Eckerman | RSP Architects

VICE CHAIR

Scott Eggert | Broadway Plaza

AT LARGE

Steve Dunn | Taco JED

TREASURER

Jessica Eidem | IBM Corporation

Chamber Board Members

SECRETARY

Dr. Christine Beech | Copiavia

SANTHI ARUNACHALAM

Xylo Technologies Inc.

CHAD BEHNKEN

Hamilton Real Estate

DR. JEFFREY BOYD

Rochester Community and Technical College

DR. LORI CARRELL

University of Minnesota Rochester

HEATHER DONOVAN

Sterling State Bank

The

ABEL GARCIA

Remodeling D.L, LLC

DOUG HOLTAN

Mayo Clinic

JARETT JONES

Merchants Bank

MARGE KELLEY

Gillette Pepsi of Rochester

OMAR NUR

Somali American Social Services Association

SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER

125 LIVE

DAVID PEDERSON

Dunlap & Seeger

NIKKI MENSING

Olmsted Medical Center

GWEN STEVENS

People’s Energy Cooperative

INSIDE THE LEGISLATIVE SESSION

The 2023 legislative session & the impacts to the business community

DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in the Representative and Senator’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 by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members. At the time of publication, a response was not available from Rep. Duane Quam (District 24A) and Rep. Tina Liebling (District 24B).

The legislative session has officially concluded for 2023. Numerous pieces of the Chamber’s Legislative Agenda were addressed in the final days and hours of the session.

One of these priorities came in the Tax Finance and Policy Bill (HF1938) which included the renewal of Rochester’s local option sales tax, also known as LOST. This allows for the continuation of Rochester’s .5% tax which will generate funding for an economic vitality fund, street reconstruction, flood control and water quality, and a sports recreation facility. After failing to pass a bonding bill earlier in the year, a compromise was finalized in the closing hours of the 2023 session, allowing for the passage of HF669 and HF670. These twin bills focused on capital investment, bonding, and cash bonding. Addressed in HF669 and HF670 is the continuation of bonding authority for the Rochester International Airport’s runway and associated improvements, bonding funds for the highway 14/44 interchange and a variety of Rochester and Olmsted County priority projects.

Another focus of the Chamber throughout the session has been the Paid Family and Medical Leave (HF2). While the bill passed, improvements were made to it during its time in conference committee. The first modification caps the program at 20 weeks, down from the initial proposal of 24 weeks. This was an improvement but work still needs to be done to ensure the program doesn’t hurt the business community. Initially the bill would have gone into effect on July 1, 2023 and have staggered implementation over a three-year period. The implementation of the program was pushed back in the version that passed, with a majority of the program being implemented after January 1, 2026. This delay in implementation is a significant improvement as it provides additional time for the program to be developed.

A defining piece of legislation at the end of the session was the Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill (SF2995). As introduced, this

THANK YOU!

legislation included a health care affordability board and aspects of the keeping nurses at the bedside legislation which would have mandated rates and staffing levels for our health care partners. Before the omnibus bill was passed, the Rochester business community and others conducted outreach to express their opposition to the legislation. As a result, the health care affordability board was dropped from the legislation and the Keeping Nurses at the Bedside Act was split into a stand-alone bill (SF1384). While it was introduced as the Keeping Nurses at the Bedside Act, SF1384 failed to gain substantial support and as a result was sent back to conference committee where the bill was revamped into the Nurse and patient safety act. This rework of the legislation dropped the previous staffing requirements and oversight board prior to its passage.

The 2023 legislative session was fast and furious, setting records for numbers of bills introduced and the pace at which they were passed. Business coalitions played a key role in the Chamber’s advocacy efforts this year and helped successfully advocate for changes to two specific pieces of legislation. Two coalitions were formed in opposition to legislation, the first coalition included members who opposed HF2, the Paid Family and Medical leave legislation. Our second coalition was made up of over 55 members, including the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, the Rochester Area Builders, and Rochester Area Economic Development Inc. (RAEDI). The support of our members in these efforts, in addition to their own outreach, played a crucial role in our advocacy efforts this session, thank you all! While some aspects of our legislative agenda did not pan out as we had hoped, there were still numerous wins for the business community and Rochester area that legislators will highlight here.

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce thanks the members of our delegation and their colleagues for their work this session and continued engagement with the Chamber.

What is an outcome from the 2023 Legislative Session that will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?

All of Minnesota’s working parents need certainty that their young children are able receive high quality care. Childcare availability and costs present significant barriers to those looking to enter the workforce, and last year the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis found that these factors also significantly shape workers’ decisions to cut their hours or leave the workforce altogether. Childcare has been in crisis, with parents unable to afford care and many providers forced to close classrooms due to lack of staff. I am proud that, this session, our legislative majorities passed child tax credits to help families cover the cost of raising children while pursuing a full-time career, alongside retention grants to stabilize the childcare workforce and help keep providers’ doors open. These reforms will strengthen the workforce that fuels our local business community, and further our goal to make Minnesota the best state to work and raise a family.

What is a notable or key accomplishment from the session?

After years without a robust bonding bill and decades of underfunding for housing, I am proud of all the long-term investments we made in Minnesota’s infrastructure this year. From boosting construction of housing supply and workforce housing, to millions in infrastructure projects that will create jobs and opportunity across southeastern Minnesota, and over $200 million in lead pipe replacement, these strategic uses of our one-time surplus funds will have lasting impact on the strength and growth of our economy. As Vice Chair of the Senate Housing and Homelessness Prevention committee, I’m particularly proud of our $1 billion investment toward solving the housing crisis that is impacting our fast-growing community and many others across the state.

What is an outcome from the 2023 Legislative Session that will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?

Bold investment in the caring professions. From historic increases for Personal Care Attendants (PCAs), Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), Assistive living staff, nursing home staff, loan forgiveness for nurses, and childcare, we prioritized caregiving. We worked to ensure ALL caregivers were valued. I was proud to serve on the Human Services Finance and Policy committees and carried both the PCA wage bill and the recruitment and retention bonuses for the caregiver bill that will ensure the people doing our most important work know how much we value them.

What is a notable or key accomplishment from the session?

This session we put people first in everything we did. We centered every policy from childcare, education, higher education, disability services, bonding projects and so much more on MN workers and families. That lens led to enacting policies to make Minnesota the best place to work, live and raise a family. I am proud of the investment we made locally in our trails and Graham Park. I am also proud of the sweeping investment we made in caregiving. We worked together across chambers, with the Governor, and across the aisle to deliver for our communities. I am honored to have been a part of this consequential session.

DISTRICT 25A

Rep. Kim Hicks

DISTRICT 25

Sen. Liz Boldon

What is an outcome from the 2023 Legislative Session that will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?

We have done some incredible work this legislative session. The two I will highlight here is our historic bonding, transportation, and housing budget bills. The first two will bring construction projects and jobs to our area, while our Housing budget bill addresses a key need for Rochester by providing more public funds for affordable housing.

What is a notable or key accomplishment from the session?

There are so many great accomplishments this session, but I think the biggest one is Paid Family & Medical Leave. This landmark legislation will make small businesses more competitive in the talent wars, support small business owners, and bring more workers back into the workforce.

What is an outcome from the 2023 Legislative Session that will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?

There were laudable goals for the 2023 Legislative Session, however, much of this could have been accomplished in a better way. Forced mandates and increased taxes will impact the Rochester business community. Minnesota is a high tax island; now exacerbated by $9B in new taxes. This is even more difficult to understand with our $18B existing surplus. These are regressive taxes that hit middle- and low-income Minnesotans the hardest leading to economic development challenges in the future. Throughout this Session, I voiced my concern for the new Paid Family Medical Leave payroll tax that adds undue burden to small businesses in our state as well as disrupts many current paid leave programsmaking it harder & inflexible for employers to meet their employee’s needs. There was a better way: utilizing a private market solution of authorizing family leave insurance and tax incentives for businesses to provide these benefits to employees.

What is a notable or key accomplishment from the session?

Coming into the 2023 Legislative Session, we continued to face a crisis with nursing homes in our state. For much of the Session, this crisis went unaddressed, however I am relieved we were able to utilize budget negotiations to be a voice for our aging populations who desperately needed our help. I was glad to support $300 Million in new funding for nursing homes, so they won’t continue to risk closure. Along with this new funding, I secured a historic infrastructure package for our state that included roughly $42 Million for the Dodge and Olmsted County region. This new funding will bring jobs, economic growth, and much-needed infrastructure investments to our region.

DISTRICT 24

Sen. Carla Nelson

DISTRICT 25B

Rep. Andy Smith

What is an outcome from the 2023 Legislative Session that will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?

After this session, the Rochester area will be less competitive with other midwestern regions. Small businesses and workers will feel the impact of new payroll taxes, new taxes and tax increases, and many other burdensome regulations. The regulatory process will be less transparent because “the trifecta” of DFL control of the legislature and Governor Walz empowered state agency bureaucrats to interpret and enforce new taxes and regulations outside the administrative rulemaking process. These are disturbing developments. The Rochester Area sales tax “Good Neighbor” policy of sharing sales tax revenue with small communities outside of Rochester has ended with the new Rochester Sales tax. Residents outside of Rochester pay half of the Rochester sales tax. The arrangement ensured that Rochester’s growth did not come at the expense of towns in rural Olmsted, Wabasha, and Dodge County. It was a model for balanced regional development, which has now come to an end.

What is a notable or key accomplishment from the session?

The negative impact of this session will be felt much longer than the positive. However, there were a few bright spots. Republicans fought for and gained increased funding for our nursing homes which are on the verge of collapse due to inconsistent reimbursement rates, inflation, and a workforce shortage that has reached crisis levels. Two capital investment bills were loaded with one-time grants to cities and non-profits, spending away the 19-million-dollar state budget surplus of over-collected taxes. There were some important, high-priority infrastructure projects funded for the region, such as road construction, a water treatment plant for the North Zumbro area which can now get underway, and some changes to earlier projects that were required for them to move forward.

What is an outcome from the 2023 Legislative Session that will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?

Perhaps the biggest change for Rochester, and just about every area’s business community, is HF 2. As of this writing, this bill recently passed in its final form through the House and Senate and will likely be signed into law by the governor soon. It establishes a state program providing 12 weeks for paid family leave, 12 weeks for paid medical leave, and will require this to be adopted for all employers in the state, unless they have equivalent or better benefits. There will be no exception for small businesses. Both workers and employers would be required to fund this program with a new 0.7% payroll tax. Employers will likely see significant difficulties leading up to and after the plan’s implementation, especially for smaller businesses reliant on a smaller number of employees.

What is a notable or key accomplishment from the session?

I would put forward the Veteran’s finance bill (HF 1937) as a key accomplishment. This was something that wasn’t finished from last session, and I’m happy that we were able to get this done to make sure that Minnesota’s veteran community is taken care of. The House passed this in April, and the Governor signed it recently on May 15th. This has been a long time coming, and even coming in as a freshman legislator, I knew this was something that needed to get done as soon as we could. We managed to craft together a bill that got a bipartisan vote on the House floor. While many other pieces of legislation were pushed through by the majority with little consensus or dialogue, this bill was a happy exception.

DISTRICT 20B

Rep. Steven Jacob

DISTRICT 20

Sen. Steve Drazkowski

Meet the Member: Oertli and Pleschourt, LLP

Each month, we hear from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook

Life is like accounting, everything must be balanced! Personalized financial guidance is valuable and at Oertli & Pleschourt, LLP their mission is to help clients maintain financial viability in the present, while taking a proactive approach to achieve future goals. We spoke with Partner and Tax Accountant Manager, Bill Oertli, CPA to learn more.

Q: Tell us about Oertli and Pleschourt . What does your company offer to the Rochester region?

A: Oertli & Pleschourt is a full-service CPA firm that provides a variety of accounting services that include tax preparation, tax planning, bookkeeping, payroll, and retirement planning for individuals, trusts, estates, farms, and small businesses.

Q: How did it start for Oertli and Pleschourt?

A : Bill Oertli, CPA started the company in 1987 with himself and a part time secretary as the only employees of the company, nine years later Carmen Pleschourt, CPA joined the firm and partnered up with Bill Oertli, CPA. Today, the company has grown to 14 full-time employees that serve over 5,500 clients.

Q: Oertli and Pleschourt became a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce last year. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization?

A: The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce has provided us with the opportunity to interact on a personal scale with the Rochester business community. The chamber has been a very valuable resource for staying in touch with happenings in the community.

Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Oertli and Pleschourt?

A: We are not only tax preparers but tax planners and wealth enhancers. We strive to provide service and treat customers the same way we would expect to be treated.

Q: What is the outlook for your business and industry?

A: We feel the outlook for our business and industry is excellent. Between the constant changes in federal & state laws as well as the growth of the Rochester community, we expect the growth that we have experienced over the past 36 years to continue.

To learn more about Oertli and Pleschourt, LLP, visit them online at www.oertliandpleschourt.com

Today, the company has grown to 14 full-time employees that serve over 5,500 clients.

HOSTED BY

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 TSP! The TSP firm offers the expertise of talented professionals in the fields of architecture, engineering, planning, and interior design. Since its establishment in 1930 as a one-man firm. TSP has expanded its presence in the Upper Midwest.

Date: Friday, June 2, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: TSP, 1500 Highway 52 N, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: http://bit.ly/3zQajhA

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 at Hotel Indigo! When you stay with Hotel Indigo, you’re not just staying anywhere, you’re staying somewhere— within a vibrant community, in a unique boutique hotel that combines authentic local experiences, modern design and intimate service with the peace of mind and consistency of staying with one of the world’s largest hotel groups.

Date: Thursday, June 15, 2023

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: Hotel Indigo, 220 Broadway Ave S, 2nd Floor, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: http://bit.ly/3o66imC

Chamber Weekend Kickoff is Back

Kickoff the weekend with the Chamber team

Start your weekend with the Chamber team! We welcome members to join us for lunch and an opportunity to connect with fellow members on a Friday every summer month for our Chamber Weekend Kickoff.

The Chamber will be grilling brats and serving lunch from 11:30am-1:00pm at the Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus. Quantities are limited and registration is requested and greatly appreciated. Be sure to bring members of your team to start your weekend with a brat and networking!

Dates: Friday, June 9, 2023

Friday, July 28, 2023

Friday, August 11, 2023

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus, 2900 19th Street NW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration required

Register for all three Chamber Weekend Kickoffs here: https://bit.ly/40UL8Xi

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR

LUNCH SPONSOR

DRINK SPONSOR

Visit Lemonade Stands on June 10 th

Help us empower today’s youth to be tomorrow’s entrepreneurs

Event Sponsors

ROCHESTER, MN

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.

Support local young entrepreneurs on Saturday, June 10th by going around the Rochester area and stopping at lemonade stands!

Date: Saturday, June 10, 2023

Location: Rochester, MN

Admission: Free, registration required

Learn more about Lemonade Day at lemonadeday.org/rochester-mn

MAIN SQUEEZE SPONSOR

FRESH SQUEEZE

HOSTED BY

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 Schmidt Goodman! Schmidt Goodman provides innovative products and solutions for leading companies and organizations throughout Southeaster Minnesota, Northern Iowa, and Western Wisconsin, They integrate space, furniture, design, and installation solutions to create functional work spaces unique to their individual clients needs.

Date: Friday, July 14, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Schmidt Goodman, 1920 N Broadway Avenue, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3NzGs4V

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 at AAA Minnesota/Iowa! AAA branch in Rochester offers full-service experiences. Their experienced staff provide members wit ha peace of mind, total satisfaction and exceptional value with all their products - from travel and vacation planning to personal lines of insurance and financial services. They look forward to serving you.

Date: Thursday, July 20, 2023

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: AAA Rochester Branch, 1535 Greenview Dr SW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3p2Q0v5

It’s Time to Par Tee

The Chamber’s un-fore-gettable Annual Golf Outing is June 21st

The Annual Chamber Golf Outing will take place on Wednesday, June 21st at the beautiful Willow Creek Golf Course!

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. Teams will put their golf score to the test against 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

A day filled with great networking, good food, and exciting golf!

Get Ready for a Kickin’ Good Time

Registration is now open for the 2nd annual Chamber Kickball Tournament

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

DUGOUT SPONSORS

Get your kicking foot ready! The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Kickball Tournament is back!

Brush off your gym shoes and get ready for a kickin’ good time with the Chamber community. Space is limited so get your team registered today!

Join us this September for a friendly game of Kickball amongst other business leaders. This event is a great opportunity for the Chamber members and their staff to get out of the office and enjoy a fun day of networking, building relations, and team bonding, all while playing a friendly game of kickball!

Assemble a team of 10 players, or come with a few and we will create a team for you! Single elimination, all skill levels welcome. Awards will be presented to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Best Dressed Team.

Don’t want a team but want to join in the fun? Come cheer on the teams and network!

Date: Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Time: 11:00AM - 5:00PM

Location: McQuillan Fields, 1655 Marion Rd. SE, Rochester

Admission: $35 per individual, $350 per team (10 players), registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3BEACbu

BASE SPONSORS

MUSIC SPONSOR

2023 STEAM Summit

Encourage students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art and math careers

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

The STEAM Summit encourages more than 1,000 middle and high school students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art and math careers by connecting them to business and higher educational institutions which offer STEAM courses in a highly interactive, hands-on format.

The future success of the Southeast Minnesota economy depends on a well-prepared pipeline of students with the education and skills needed to keep the region’s business and industry competitive. This summit brings together over 50+ business, higher education, local government and our community to motivate and prepare students for an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Date: Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Time: 7:00AM - 3:00PM

Location: RCTC Regional Sports Center 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester

Admission: Exhibitor registration is free thanks to the generosity of sponsors, registration required

Register here to participate as an interactive exhibitor: https://bit.ly/456MW1F

HOST SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

Calendar of Events

View and register all Chamber events at www.rochestermnchamber.com/events

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

FREE - Registration required

21 Annual Golf Outing

Date: Wednesday, June 21

Time: 9:30am-7:00pm Location: Willow Creek Golf Course

TEAMS SOLD OUT!

22 Hospitality 1st Roundtable

Date: Thursday, June 22

Time: 9:30am-11:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

JULY

14 AM EspressoSchmidt Goodman

Date: Friday, July 14

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Schmidt Goodman

FREE - Registration requested

20 Business After HoursAAA Minnesota/Iowa

Date: Thursday, July 20

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: AAA Minnesota/Iowa

FREE - Registration requested

21 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, July 21

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

28 Chamber Weekend Kickoff

Date: Friday, July 28

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration requested

AUGUST

4 AM EspressoPossAbilities

Date: Friday, August 4

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: PossAbilities

FREE - Registration requested

11 Chamber Weekend Kickoff

Date: Friday, August 11

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration requested

15 Business After HoursPremier Bank Block Party

Date: Tuesday, August 15

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: Premier Bank Rochester

Downtown

FREE - Registration requested

17 WE Forum

Date: Thursday, August 17

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration required

18 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, August 18

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

24 Hospitality 1st Roundtable

Date: Thursday, August 24

Time: 9:30am-11:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

SEPTEMBER

8 AM EspressoGillette Pepsi

Date: Friday, September 8

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Gillette Pepsi

FREE - Registration requested

Chamber Launching Young Talent Network for the Rochester Area

The RYT Network will be a connecting point for young professionals as they advance in their careers

In May, the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce announced the launch of the Rochester Area Young Talent (RYT) Network. The RYT Network will serve as a connecting point for young professionals from the region to create connections, develop professionally and personally, and build relationships with industry, community, and the talent of tomorrow.

The RYT Network will engage young professionals ages 21-39 from throughout the Rochester region, providing development opportunities, community engagement, and networking experiences.

“Rochester and the surrounding communities are home to outstanding young professionals in all industries and the Rochester Area Young Talent Network is an opportunity to bring those talented individuals together,” said Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce President, Ryan Parsons. “Developing new connections, growing professionally and personally, and creating a sense of community is essential to retain the talented professionals here in the Rochester area as they advance in their careers.”

Launching in September 2023, the Rochester Area Chamber’s Rochester Area Young Talent Network will be available to Chamber members and additional information, including program details and how to join, will be shared in the months ahead.

To learn more about the RYT Network or how to support and engage in the program, please visit www.rochestermnchamber.com/ryt.

New Small Business Development Center

Director at DEED

Director will help catalyze and grow the state’s small business community

The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced Andy Donahue as the new Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Director. Donahue will lead Minnesota’s SBDC program by working with SBDC’s regional centers, entrepreneurs and small businesses to help catalyze and grow the state’s small business community. He will also work collaboratively with other small businesses programs and services, both internal at DEED and external, and will provide leadership of the SBDC network by overseeing and advocating for SBDC services.

Prior to this new role at DEED, Donahue served as the Small Business Development Center Director at the University of Wisconsin-Superior for eight years. While there, he focused on developing a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that focuses on developing strategic partnerships, stakeholder engagement, and in-depth client insight.

Donahue has been involved in numerous professional organizations and boards, including the Entrepreneur Fund, Northwest Wisconsin Workforce Investment Board, Northwest Wisconsin Educators for Regional Development, Visions Northwest Regional Economic Development Group, and more. He holds a Master of Business Administration and Master of Business Leadership from the College of Saint Scholastica. He also is a Certified Economic Developer through the International Economic Development Council.

Andy Donahue

2023 Best Places to Work Announced

Workforce Development, Inc. held their annual Best Places to Work award ceremony

Fifteen companies representing the counties of Winona, Freeborn, Mower, Rice, Steele, Goodhue, Olmsted, Houston, Dodge, Fillmore and Wabasha Counties were recognized as the 2023 “Best Places to Work” in Southeast Minnesota.

These organizations were celebrated on Thursday, April 27th, 2023, as part of the 2023 Workforce Development Forum. The “Best Places to Work” awards program was a commissioned study by Workforce Development, Inc. The purpose of the program was to recognize some of the best employers in our local area and provide vital information to companies about the practices they use to attract and retain employees.

Each company participating was required to complete a 40-question survey that allowed their employment practices to be analyzed by the consulting firm of Personnel Dynamics Consulting of Florida. Every company participating in the survey will receive a detailed 25-page report detailing the information on their company and the results of the survey.

The data was measured on such parameters as: turnover, rate of growth, promotion rates, employee evaluations and feedback, percentage of employee injured, diversity of management, benefits offered, training expenditures, paid days off and increase in pay. The Workforce Development, Inc. and sponsors joined forces to bring “Best Places to Work” program to Southeast Minnesota.

2023 Best Places to Work in Southeast Minnesota

SMALL EMPLOYER (UNDER 50 EMPLOYEES)

• Arcadian Bank

• IBI Data

• Peterson, Kolker, Haedt & Benda, Ltd.

• Southeast Service Cooperative

• Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency

MID-SIZE EMPLOYER (50-150 EMPLOYEES)

• Albert Lea Seed House

• Crown Cork and Seal

• Custom Alarm

• K&G Manufacturing

• Peoples Energy Cooperative

LARGE EMPLOYER (OVER 150 EMPLOYEES)

• Benike Construction

• Gemini, Inc.

• Mower County

• Olmsted County

• Zumbro Valley Health Center

The Best Places to Work program recognize some of the best employers in our local area and provide vital information to companies about the practices they use to attract and retain employees.

Photo taken by Kortney Wobbe Photography (www.facebook.com/KortneyWobbePhotography)

*BOLDED CHAMBER MEMBERS

Local Sales Tax Projects to be Included on Upcoming Ballot

Legislators approved Rochester’s .5% local sales tax renewal to be voted on in November

Additionally, the City had various bonding projects receive funding:

• $14 million for Regional Parks and Forestry Maintenance Facility to expand the existing Public Works and Transit Operations Center and allow the existing parks maintenance facility and function to move entirely from its current location downtown by Mayo Field.

• $3.6 million for Willow Creek Regional Trail & Safety Connection that will connect the Gamehaven Regional Park into the rest of the city’s trail system with a trail and Highway 52/63 underpass.

The City of Rochester thanked local lawmakers and their colleagues from across the state as the 2023 legislative session closed on May 22. There were many positive outcomes for the Rochester community and region, including the opportunity ask local voters to renew the .5% local sales tax in November, funding of many City bonding priorities and financial support of many local government programs.

City Administrator Alison Zelms shares, “We want to thank our local lawmakers and extend our appreciation for their work and dedication to Rochester and our region. We are very grateful to our bipartisan legislative delegation for their support on many of the priorities important to the city and community this session.”

The four local sales tax renewal projects, which were the City’s top legislative priority, received support in the agreement between the House and the Senate as part of the larger omnibus tax bill. Voters in Rochester will consider renewing the existing .5% sales tax for the four projects: Economic Vitality Fund, Street Reconstruction, Flood Control & Water Quality, and a Regional Sports and Recreation Complex.

The local .5% sales tax has been a tool utilized by Rochester since the 1980s and it was most recently renewed in 2012 for various projects around the city and region. The renewal of the .5% sales tax needs to be approved by the local voters in November in order to become effective.

• $800,000 for Design of Regional Park & Ride Parking Facility along North Broadway adjacent to the Recreation Center/125 Live. The parking facility will provide park and ride function along the transit corridor of North Broadway into downtown. The facility will also provide parking for events at the Recreation Center and users of 125LIVE, Rochester’s Center for Active Adults.

• Extension of 2020 Bonding Funds for Rochester Airport Runway Improvements allowing the use of previouslyawarded state funds for duration of the 7-year project and alignment with over $60 million in federal dollars for the project that is currently underway.

In addition to Rochester-specific projects, there were pieces of legislation approved related to cities and supported by the City Council’s adopted legislative priorities. These include: local government aid, statewide housing aid, public safety aid, funding for electric vehicle microtransit, funding for services and shelters for people experiencing homelessness, reinstatement and extension of the state Historic Structure Rehabilitation Tax Credit, green building energy code rules change at state level, and state funding for treatment of PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) for public safety.

More information on the local sales tax renewal and the four projects can be found here: https://bit.ly/3C7Cjhy

County Awarded $23 Million to Fund Several Initiatives

Initiatives include a materials recovery facility, exhibition center and highway construction

The Minnesota legislature approved $23 million in state capital investment dollars to help fund the following Olmsted County initiatives:

• $10 million toward construction of a materials recovery facility (MRF).

• $8 million toward an exhibition center at Graham Park.

• $5 million toward an interchange at the intersection of County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 44 and Trunk Highway (TH) 14.

“This is very exciting news for Olmsted County,” said Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Gregg Wright. “We have been working to secure funding for these much-needed initiatives for some time. We are thrilled the Minnesota legislature saw the value in these three projects and how they will benefit Southeast Minnesota. We would also like to thank our local lawmakers for their continued advocacy for these projects.”

MATERIALS RECOVERY FACILITY

The objectives of the MRF are to remove recyclable and noncombustible materials from the waste stream to increase recycling and delay the need for expansion of the Olmsted Waste-to-Energy Facility (OWEF). The new MRF will expand upon Olmsted County’s current integrated solid waste management system by reclaiming materials and removing problematic items from the waste stream. The new 30,000-square-foot MRF will be located on the south side of

the OWEF which currently accepts waste from Olmsted and Dodge counties. The total cost of the project is $32.5 million.

GRAHAM PARK EXHIBITION CENTER

Olmsted County sought funds to construct a regional, multiuse exhibition center at Graham Park to serve important regional and community needs, drive year-round activity, and generate new economic opportunity. A new exhibition center is intended to replace some of the animal agriculture buildings and become the primary flat floor event venue at Graham Park.

The number of events of all kinds at Graham Park has been steadily increasing over the past few years. The exhibition center will accommodate a wide variety of community events, ethnic, cultural celebrations and festivals, and entertainment and leisure activities to further support the increased demand.

INTERCHANGE AT CSAH 44/TH 14

This project consists of a proposed interchange at CSAH 44 and TH 14, and an associated flyover structure at 7th Street NW. Infrastructure elements include four bridge structures, retaining walls, pavement, lighting, and active transportation facilities. Constructing this interchange and the associated flyover structure at 7th Street NW will address three main goals: safety, mobility, and capacity/ growth.

Newsreels

Updates from the Chamber member community

BROCK RETURNS TO TV

ABC 6 News KAAL TV, announced Randy Brock will be added to the ABC 6 News family. Chief Meteorologist Randy Brock will join James Wilcox and Robin Wolfram for the 5, 6, and 10pm news. He has had the opportunity to cover some of southeast Minnesota’s most significant weather events, from the floods of 2007 to the unreasonable snowstorm of May 2013, and quite a bit in between.

PROMOTION TO PRESIDENT

Pantheon Computers, a leading provider of cutting-edge computing solutions, is pleased to announce the promotion of Reyna Monson to the position of President. As President, Reyna will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of Pantheon’s operations, including sales, marketing, product development, and customer service. She will work closely with Stagman, who will continue to serve as Pantheon’s Visionary, in the CEO seat.

NEW MARKETING MEDIA SPECIALIST

Reagan Outdoor Advertising is excited to announce their newest hire, Ken Quattrin . Ken has been in the media business for over 25 years in the Rochester area. Whether in a newsroom or out on the streets selling, Ken comes with a wide range of talents. Reagan Outdoor Advertising is confident he will be back out in the community, communicating the effectiveness of all their media products. Welcome to the team!

EXPANDED COACHING SERVICES

In addition to organizational, team, and individual leadership development, all anchored in resilience building strategies, Sandy Anderson , MS has expanded her Leadership and Personal Coaching in her practice to include Strength-Based Parent Coaching. For more information visit www. sandyandersonconsulting.com

NEWCOMER HOTEL AWARD

The EVEN Hotel & Staybridge Suites has been presented with the IHG Newcomer Award for 2022. This award recognizes the tremendous effort to deliver superior guest service and is reserved for top performing new hotels. To have both of our properties win is an exceptional achievement and would not be possible without our amazing staff.

PRESIDENT’S AWARD

Recently, Rochester Toyota was announced as one of the 2022 Toyota President’s award recipients. This the 16th time that Rochester Toyota has earned this prestigious award, which is reflective of Toyota dealers that excel in all facets of their operations. It is designed to recognize dealerships that continue to go above and beyond at each customer interaction.

NEXT GENERAL MANAGER

Rochester Public Utilities announced the appointment of Tim McCollough as the incoming General Manager. McCollough is anticipated to start July 31, 2023. McCollough most recently served as the President and Chief Executive Officer for Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative. Prior, he was the Deputy Director of Light and Power Utilities for the City of Fort Collins. Tim has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University.

NEW LOCATION

Two Men and A Truck is happy to announce the opening of their new location at 1814 15th St. NW. The new location will allow them to expand their storage facility and grow their new junk removal service. Two Men and A Truck is a full-service moving company that offers packing, moving, unpacking, storage, and junk removal. They can do local moves or moves across the country!

Newsreel Submissions

Have an announcement for the Chamber member community such as a new hire, promoted employee, recipient of an award or a company rebranding?

Send your newsreel submissions for future issues of the Advantage Magazine to Sophia van Oss at svanoss@rochestermnchamber.com

Newsreel submissions are a benefit of Chamber membership and complimentary for members.

MOVED LOCATIONS

MedCentral Outlet recently moved locations, allowing for more inventory (updated weekly), plus expanded days and times to shop. Stop in for used home and office furniture: high in quality, not in price. From desks + chairs to treadmills + TVs, their variety and customer service is huge!

Ribbon Cuttings

LEVELS celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on March 30th. Owner and CEO, Daniel Johnson cut the ribbon.

Apache Mall, 1200 12th Street SW, Rochester www.levelsfashion.com

NXTGEN CRYOTHERAPY & SPA celebrated their grand opening and Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on April 3rd. Owner, Marshall Bakken cut the ribbon.

1710 37th Street NW, Rochester www. nxtgencryo .com

THAIPOP celebrated their official grand opening and Songkran with a ribbon cutting on April 13th. Owner, Annie Balow cut the ribbon.

4 3rd Street SW, Rochester www.thaipopmn .com

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on April 19th. Manager, Barb Parker cut the ribbon.

3261 19th St NW, Suite 201, Rochester ww.alz. org /mnnd

VETERANS AND EMERGENCY SERVICES MUSEUM celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on April 20th. President, Richard Krom cut the ribbon.

Hilton Rochester, 10 E Center Street, Rochester www.vesm.org

membership with a ribbon cutting on April 26th. Owner, Kim Juen cut the ribbon.

5737 Colonial Ln SE, Rochester www.awakengratitude.org

GEOTEK celebrated the grand opening on their learning center with a ribbon cutting on April 27th. Chief Operation Officer, Mike Schoenoff cut the ribbon.

1421 2nd Ave NW, Stewartville www.geotek.com

ROCHESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION celebrated the grand opening of their new BookBox with a ribbon cutting on April 27th. Executive Director, Brenda Kardock cut the ribbon.

BookBox: 875 41st St NW (Fire Station #4), Rochester www.rochesterpubliclibrary.org

INTERVENTIONAL ORTHOPEDIC SOLUTIONS celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on May 4th. Operations Director, Catherine McBride cut the ribbon.

2560 2nd St SW Suite 120, Rochester www.iosrochester.com

HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON celebrated their 5th anniversary with a ribbon cutting on May 5th. Area Director of Sales, Andy Thilges cut the ribbon.

831 16th Street SW, Rochester www.hilton.com/en/hotels/rsththt-home2-suitesrochester-mayo-clinic-area

THE PINES celebrated their grand opening of phase 3 with a ribbon cutting on May 9th. Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Brittney Warters cut the ribbon.

4871 Pines View Place NW, Rochester www.pinesrochester.com

UNI UNI ROCHESTER celebrated their grand opening and new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on May 15th. President, Luona Shi cut the ribbon.

1227 2nd St SW, Rochester www.uniunirochestermn.com

Welcome to the Chamber

Harter’s Disposal of Minnesota

Erica Nikolai

(608) 782-2082

2850 Larson St., La Crosse www.hartersfvd.com

Minnesota VOIP Inc.

Jeffrey Risch

(612) 355-7740

9217 17th Ave. S, Suite 216, Bloomington www.mnvoip.com

Rootz of Inspiration

Jeremy Westrum

(507) 271-6799

1121 7th Street NW, Rochester www.rootzofinspiration.com

Purple Goat

David Currie

(507) 361-5144

3708 N Broadway Ave., Suite 160, Rochester www.creativecuisineco.com/purple-goat

AFLAC Rochester

Joe Gauthier

(507) 289-0400

1815 14th St NW, Rochester www.aflac.com

Wash Me Car Wash

Josh Wilson (507) 208-4748

1727 Broadway Ave. S, Rochester www.facebook.com/CarWashRochesterMN

Staybridge Suites Rochester

Jerrod Moton

(507) 280-9000

2350 Commerce Drive NW, Rochester www.ihg.com/staybridge/

Benedict’s

Owen Murphy

(507) 361-1208

10 E Center Street, Rochester www.benedictsrochester.com

Fastenal

Kirsten Weseman

(507) 288-3025

1680 Industrial Dr. NW, Rochester www.fastenal.com

Vitality Chiropractic

Ed LeQuire

(507) 208-4538

2625 Hwy 14 West, Suite B, Rochester

www.vitalityrochester.com

Kismet Consignment Fashion & Home Decor

Jes Peterson

(507) 424-2636

601 N Broadway Ave., Rochester

www.kismetconsignment.biz

Reed Life Mastery Consultants

Jan Reed (507) 251-5708 www.reedslmc.com

Tri State Business Machines, Inc.

Tabetha Coughlin

(800) 544-2679

4300 Hwy 52 NW Frontage Road, Rochester www.tsbm.com

Hannah Rosholt Photography

Hannah Rosholt (507) 440-4746

www.hannahrosholt.com

Awaken Gratitude

Kim Juen

(507) 261-2284

5737 Colonial Ln SE, Rochester

www.awakengratitude.org

Residence Inn Rochester Mayo Clinic Area South

Andy Thilges

(507) 923-2141

809 16th Street SW, Rochester

www.marriott.com/rstrn

Pantheon Computers

Kirk Rubado

(507) 261-5489

1221 3rd AVE SW, Suite 250, Rochester www.pantheoncomputers.com

Miranda Tech Solutions

Victor Miranda

(507) 200-8393

1500 1st Ave NE, Suite 221, Rochester www.mirandatechsolutions.com

The Guerin Art & Guitars

John Guerin

(507) 258-4035

16 3rd Street SW, Rochester www.instagram.com/the_guerin

Onyx Builders & Contracting LLC

Mike Rabehl

(507) 513-4320

2304 32nd Ave NW, Rochester www.onyxbuildersandcontracting.com

The Lodge At Overland

Jacquelyn Hill

(507) 722-3035

6635 Lodge View Rd NW, Rochester www.lodgeatoverland.com

Sorellina’s Italian by Victoria’s

Nadia Victoria

(507) 516-0641

1155 16th Street SW, Rochester www.sorellinasmn.com

Crane Pest Solutions

Brandon Crane

(507) 218-1154

PO Box 8116, Rochester www.cranepestsolutions.com

First Steps Academy

Cassie Fenstra

(507) 282-5437

3089 25th St NW, Rochester www.firststepsmn.com

Manpower

Dave Wheeler

(507) 285-0710

2746 Superior DR NW, Suite 320, Rochester www.manpowergroupusa.com

The Mess Hall

Jared Byrnes

(507) 785-0226

1635 Broadway Ave. N, Rochester www.themesshallmn.com

My Home NP

Kevin Switalski

(507) 701-8833

933 8th Avenue Northwest, Byron www.myhomenp.com

Weekend Nirvana

Mark Young (507) 242-4476

www.weekendnirvana.com

Mercedes-Benz of Rochester

Josh Haron (507) 424-3001

4447 Canal Place SE, Rochester www.mbofrochester.com

Rochester Drain Rite

Chris Rivera

(507) 288-2121

606 11th Ave NW, Rochester www.rochesterdrainritemn.com

Med Central Outlet & Transport

Lex Robertson

(507) 269-8747

808 Apache Lane SW, Rochester www.medcentraloutlet.com

French Touch Photography

Alexandre Mayeur (507) 271-4248

1408 20th Ave NE, Rochester www.french-touch-photography.com