With a history of working on workforce development issues in the non-profit sector (Junior Achievement) and legislature (Lead on the Greater Minnesota Workforce and Economic Development Committee) prior to becoming Mayor, Mayor Norton has been excited to find ways to continue her interest in pro-growth initiatives. Additionally, she has carried and passed a $585M economic development bill (DMC) to support the growth of Mayo Clinic in the community though infrastructure and supports for the city. This unique public-private partnership will last 20 years and secure Rochester as a destination for high quality medical care.

Since becoming Mayor, Mayor Norton has helped Rochester focus on equitable economic development through a number of initiatives including winning the $1M Bloomberg Global Mayors Challenge grant focused on BIPOC women in construction and built environment careers, including green jobs. This was done using a co-design process that brings underrepresented communities to the table to determine their own needs and help us build their future in ways that matter. Rochester is also participating in three tracts the National League of Cities (NLC) “Inclusive Entrepreneurship” initiative to assure equitable access to business ownership and small business growth.