WILLMAR—City officials and business leaders from Greater Minnesota communities gathered November 16-17 at Willmar Conference Center for its annual fall conference.

The conference kicked off with welcome remarks from St. Joseph Mayor and CGMC President Rick Schultz, Willmar Mayor Doug Reese, and CGMC Executive Director Bradley Peterson, followed by a lunch presentation from Department of Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. Commissioner Marquart led an engaging discussion on the recent LGA increase passed in the 2023 legislative session, and the role of the Department in providing essential state services to cities across Minnesota. Members heard about his work supporting local governments, data trends, his insights on how the state is positioned for the future, and what opportunities and challenges he sees on the horizon.

Other topics included an environmental justice panel; a labor and employment update, including the recent legislation passed and what the upcoming legislative session could mean for employers; EMS delivery challenges for Greater Minnesota; adoption of policy positions and a bus tour of Willmar that showcased the Willmar Civic Center, Block 25 Lofts, Willmar Industrial Park and Foxhole Brewhouse.