Do current government policies discriminate against small communities? Does the phrase “economic meltdown” describe the present situation? How should individuals react to today’s realities? How can small town vitality be regained? How are our towns changing and what needs should we be planning for?
These and many other issues will be discussed by Tom Stinson, State Economist and Tom Gillaspy, State Demographer in Cannon Falls on Saturday, February 9. They will present current information about trends they see developing in small towns and rural areas and possible survival strategies. The research done by Stinson is often used to steer state economic policy. Demographic research provides information about population changes and trends, important for understanding the forces behind those changes and developing strategies to adapt and prepare for them. Area citizens are invited to take advantage of this unique opportunity and to participate in a comment, question and response session. The event will be at 1:00 P.M. at the Cannon Falls Government Center. *
As an extension of the previous discussion, representatives of the Cannon Falls Library Board are being asked to continue the community dialogue with a brief presentation and update on plans for our local library. Factors, including population trends, advances in technology, community needs and economic realities will be considered as this project is discussed. This discussion may be helpful to other communities with major projects under consideration.
*The Cannon Falls Government Center is located west of Highway 20 just north of the Cannon River on River Road. This event is sponsored by the Cannon Falls Unit of the Northfield League of Women Voters, a non-partisan political organization dedicated to researching complex issues and seeking positive solutions to public policy issues through education.
