Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Downtown Events topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Aitkin leaders tout downtown buzz, new bandstand and free concert series plans
Summary
City Administrator Jen Thompson and City Clerk Samantha Sass described downtown revitalization efforts including a permanently sited bandstand in Central Park, electrical upgrades for performances and plans for a free summer concert series, and noted staff initiatives such as an employee appreciation program.
City officials described recent downtown improvements and programming that city leaders hope will draw residents and visitors. City Administrator Jen Thompson and City Clerk Samantha Sass told Coffee with the County that the city has placed a bandstand permanently in Central Park, upgraded park electrical service and is planning a free concert series next summer.
"Sam's been promoting the Central Park and the bandstand that was moved there permanently ... and we recently just did an electrical upgrade at the park there so that bands can play," Thompson said, noting interest from performers and residents. Samantha said the city is "trying to get a concert series in the park next summer" and emphasized that it would be free for residents.
The program also highlighted administration priorities. Thompson said she is resurrecting an employee appreciation program and will brief the city council in January. Both Thompson and Sass emphasized collaborative relationships with county, school district and businesses as key to sustaining downtown momentum.
The episode did not include formal council action on events or park improvements; staff described coordination and planning activities instead.
