City of Watkins, 111 Central Ave. So., P.O. Box 306, Watkins MN 55389 • Phone: 320.764.6400 • Fax: 320.764.6401

Economic Development

The Watkins Economic Development Authority was established to assist new and existing businesses to expand or relocate in Watkins.  The EDA Board is comprised of seven members appointed by the City Council.  Meetings are held quarterly (January, April, July and October) on the second Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall.  (Please note the Oct. meeting will be held on the 2nd Tuesday due to Columbus Day holiday.)

The EDA Board spends its time assisting local businesses with gap financing, looking for opportunities to bring new business into the City, helping current businesses grow and continuing to support the overall growth and economic health of Watkins.  The Board continues to research opportunities and to locate land around the City that may be available for sale.  Retaining local businesses and bringing new ones into the City helps the community to grow as a whole and keep it thriving.

Board Members are:

President:                Joe Kuechle                                              Term expires:  1-1-2023

Vice Pres:                Brenda Carlson                                           Term expires: 1-1-2022

President Pro Tem:  Kathleen Tschumperlin                               Term expires:  1-1-2023

Treasurer:               Kathleen Tschumperlin                               Term expires: 1-1-2023

Asst. Treas:            Deb Kramer

Secretary:               Jeanette Neidhardt

Members:                Sarah Kern                                                   Term expires: 1-1-2026

                                Sue Unterberger                                         Term expires: 1-1-2028
                            
                                Frank Eder                                                   Term expires: 1-1-2028
              
                                Cole Jirik                                                      Term expires: 1-1-2027