We love North Mankato and are proud to call it home, with its small-town vibe and big heart. And we appreciate all who give their time and talents to help keep the city vibrant and healthy.
In some important issues, however, the current North Mankato City Council and its administration have made several decisions we believe are not in residents’ best interests.
Please browse the issues below when considering your vote this November.
On the 28th of July, 2023 the City of North Mankato formally entered into a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with Oppidan Incorporated, a company that constructs data centers. See the NDA and background on the issue here.
Data Center Debacle
Wait, We Bought a $27 Million Building?
On April 20, 2026, City Council members Peterson, Whitlock, and mayor Carlson, voted a second time to approve a new $27,000,000 Public works facility. Cost to the taxpayers will be $44,000 000 over the next 25 years to be paid with property taxes. How much in individual property taxes will this cost? Here’s the tax table provided by the city and more information.
Demonstrating the need for a citizen park board, the cost of a small bridge over a creek in Spring Lake Park came in at $100,000. This bridge was designed so lawnmowing machines could more easily move to the west side of the park without exiting at Webster Avenue. Citizen input prevented a second such costly bridge from being constructed. Details here.
The $100,000 Bridge to Overkill.
Currently, the city allows public comments for three minutes at the beginning of council meetings, but only on agenda business items. If you want to address the council on a different issue, you’ll get your chance at the end of the meeting. Details here.