The St. Joseph City Council meeting on November 4, 2024, focused on potential partnerships for economic development and community engagement. A significant discussion centered around a proposal from the Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation (GSDC) to provide fractional economic development services to member cities, including St. Joseph.

City Administrator David presented the proposal, explaining that GSDC is exploring this service to assist cities in enhancing their economic development efforts. He emphasized that the intention is not to replace existing staff but to explore how GSDC's services could complement current city operations. The council was encouraged to provide feedback before further research is conducted.

Local business owner Julia Kringle expressed her support for the city’s collaborative approach, highlighting her positive experiences working with City staff, particularly with Nate, the city’s economic development representative. She emphasized the importance of local knowledge in any development efforts, expressing concern about outside entities making decisions for the community.

Council members voiced mixed feelings about the proposal. Some expressed apprehension regarding the potential impact on local governance and the community's unique character. They stressed the need for more detailed information on how the partnership would function and its implications for city staff, particularly Nate's role.

The council agreed to continue exploring the proposal while ensuring that local interests remain a priority. The meeting underscored the importance of community involvement in city planning and the delicate balance between seeking external support and maintaining local control. Further discussions and research will be necessary to clarify the potential benefits and structure of the proposed partnership with GSDC.