Owatonna’s Economic Growth and Leisure Expansion in 2023
With record-breaking growth and lively new community offerings, Owatonna's story in 2023 narrates economic and recreational success.
The narrative of Owatonna in 2023 is one of remarkable economic advancement and enriched community life. The city thrived with a record-breaking issuance of 1,761 permits, amounting to over $110 million, setting a precedent for economic vitality. Job creation waved its flag high with KAMP Automation and Climate by Design International bringing 100 new opportunities to our industrious town. Owatonna's accommodation expanded with Home 2 Suites, while 26th & Cedar Apartments invigorated our housing market with 75 new residences.
Owatonna's dining scene welcomed additional flavors with Roma's Italian Eatery and Jersey Mike's serving up new culinary options, a nod to our community's growing palette.
As for urban infrastructure, close to a mile of streets were reinvigorated and sealed, while our wastewater treatment capacity broadened with substantial state funding.
Quality of life sparkled as inspections improved safety and River Springs Water Park witnessed unprecedented attendance. The addition of 8 new pickleball courts acknowledges the trending sport, while Brooktree Golf Course's rounds played soared alongside its modernized bar area.
The city's governance shined with a new community-wide brand and a well-deserved bond rating upgrade, with City Hall's makeover capturing our forward-looking spirit.
2023 was more than numbers—it was Owatonna's spirit, flexing its resilience and dreaming bigger.
Randy Thompson
Randy Thompson is a generative journalist specializing in local news coverage.