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March 14, 2023
Library Director Jessica McGee has been key in shaping the Red Wing Public Library over the last several years, but now she has decided to move on to a new a chapter in her life. Help us say thank you and wish Jessica a fond farewell at a public reception on March 27 from 5 to 5:45 p.m. at City Hall.
City Day on the Hill
Hallock Beise Farrar Lambert
Last Thursday, Red Wing was well represented at the League of Minnesota Cities City Day on the Hill. Administrative Business Director Marshall Hallock and City Council members Kim Beise, Janie Farrar, and Vicki Jo Lambert visited the State Capitol to connect with our state representatives and advocate for our community. Building relationships with those who represent us is just one more way we're working to build up Red Wing.
Report Card Stats of the Week
Here are this week's City Beat Stats from the new online Red Wing Report Card. One-third of us in Red Wing rent, and more than half of us renters are "cost-burdened," which means we pay more than 30% of our income on housing costs. In addition, one-quarter of us live in households that bring in less than $35,000 annually. Learn about that and much more in the Red Wing Report Card, with sections on Demographics, Housing, and the Economy. More topics will be published each month!
Honoring Dakota Project
We are honored that Prairie Island Indian Community is sharing their experiences and traditions with the broader Red Wing community. Save these important dates in April:
We Are All Related: Monday, April 3, 6 to 8 p.m. in the Foot Room of the Library. The Prairie Island Education Team will share the story and lessons of the Buffalo that were the foundation to life for the Dakota.
Tours of the Edwin W. Buck, Jr. Veteran Memorial Buffalo Project. Thursday, April 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn about the Buffalo farm on Prairie Island and experience the cultural and traditional teachings of our Buffalo relatives.
These events are in partnership with two ongoing projects: The Honoring Dakota Project and Lessons from our Inclusive Economic Stories. Get all the details by visiting the Honoring Dakota website and Facebook page.
Seeking Sustainability Champions
Know someone who is leaving a legacy of sustainability? We want to recognize them, but first, we need your help . The Jay McCleary Sustainability award recognizes innovative programs and practices that contribute to the vitality, sustainability, and resilience of the community. If you know an individual, business, or organization that promotes sustainability and environmental stewardship in our community, nominate them now for the 2023 award. Nominations are open until April 15. Learn more about the award and its namesake here, and help us recognize those making strides in sustainability right here in Red Wing.
Advancing Entrepreneurs
Creating a successful business can be a combination of getting the right resources at the right time. The new Port Authority Advancing Entrepreneurs Program aims to provide that for aspiring BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), women, and veteran business owners. The program offers loans up to $20,000 and will work to connect entrepreneurs with the right resources. To get started, interested applicants meet with a Red Wing Ignite or Minority Owned Business Network coach for an onboarding session. The process goes on to include business planning, a customized training plan, ongoing consulting services, and more. Find more details about the Advancing Entrepreneurs Program here, and start planning your business today.
Housing Project Takes Step Forward
Three Rivers Community Action's plans for a 48-unit modest-income housing project, including 12 supportive units, came before City Council again on Monday night. Plans for the project near Walmart on Technology Drive were developed with input from community organizations and residents, and many community members turned out to add their feedback at Monday's meeting. After listening to comments and having their own discussion, City Council ultimately pledged support in a 4-3 vote toward donating land and creating a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district for the project. Council members Beise, Brown, Lambert, and Norton approved. There are still several steps before the land donation or TIF district would be finalized, and other work needs to be done before the project can become a reality. But this first step was a big one. Learn more about the project's background in this staff report.
Charting the Course of the City
The Charter Commission has one job, and it’s important – to review the
City’s charter and update it as necessary. The time commitment is minimal for such an important function, usually only one meeting per year. Have you got that much time to spare? If so, we have an application with your name on it – or at least a place for you to put your name. Come serve alongside your friends and neighbors and apply today.
All in a Day's Work
If there’s a big project happening in Red Wing, you’ll likely find Ron Seymour in the middle of making it happen. As the City’s Capital Investment Program Manager, Ron helps identify, develop, and manage project funding, capital investment opportunities, and construction projects. Riverfront projects top Ron’s list of favorites, but seeing any project come to fruition after years of work is always satisfying. Ron says he enjoys coming into work every day and the people he works with. When he’s not at work, though, Ron looks forward to spending time reading, attending Twins and Vikings games, gardening, golfing, and fishing on occasion. Red Wing is Ron’s hometown, and he’s glad to be a part of keeping it moving forward.
We'll Save You a Seat
Sheldon Theatre Board Meeting
City Council Chambers
Tuesday, March 21, at 5:15 p.m.

Sister Cities Commission Meeting
City Council Chambers
Wednesday, March 22, at 5 p.m.

City Council Meeting
City Council Chambers
Monday, March 27, at 6 p.m.
Advisory Planning Commission Meeting
City Council Chambers
Tuesday, March 21, at 7 p.m.
Human Rights Commission Meeting
City Council Chambers
Thursday, March 23, at 6 p.m.
Port Authority Board Meeting
City Council Chambers
Tuesday, April 4, at 5:30 p.m.