Pine County officials hold rural economic development summit

The Pine County Board held a special meeting focused on economic development at Watrin Farms near Grindstone Lake on June 24.

The summit included discussions with area entrepreneurs and business owners about challenges and opportunities faced in rural areas.

"Rural entrepreneurs don't just run businesses, they anchor our communities," said commissioner Roger Nelson in a news release. "Their success is essential to the long-term resilience of Pine County."

A panel of local entrepreneurs, including Heather Ladd (owner of Bear Creek Tavern in Cloverdale), Mark Watrin (owner of Watrin Farms in Sandstone), and Tim Davis (owner of Grand Cinema and Banning RV Park & Campground), shared their stories about starting and growing their Pine County businesses.

According to the release, a common theme during a discussion on rural economic development strategies was the need for "flexible, place-based approaches that prioritize local leadership and innovation."

"In Pine County, we've learned that traditional models don't always fit," Pine County economic development coordinator Lezlie Sauter said in the release. "We're investing in people and partnerships to build an economy that reflects our values and strengths."