(Fairmont) The Martin County Economic Development Authority heard a report Monday from Region Nine as the organization works on a five-year economic development roadmap for the region, including Martin County. Region Nine is collecting input to identify challenges and opportunities for the future. The group is updating its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for 2027, looking at areas including the economy, workforce, infrastructure and demographics. Officials say the plan will also address challenges such as business closures, natural disasters and declining birth rates. EDA members suggested holding additional listening sessions outside of Fairmont to gather input from more communities. The board also discussed whether manufacturing could be a stronger economic development focus, with the idea that more jobs could help support retail growth. In other business, the EDA approved an application for up to 20-thousand dollars from the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation to support a pilot grant program for Martin County childcare providers. The EDA also received a signed agreement from Habitat for Humanity for projects in Sherburn and Truman.
