Southeast Minnesota Community Needs Assessment

Abstract

This project, spearheaded by the City of Winnebago, Minnesota, was developed to better understand the current infrastructure and community amenities available in small communities across 16 counties in the southeast region of Minnesota. In addition to creating a regional inventory of social, physical, and economic infrastructure, this study aimed to identify existing gaps, areas in need of improvement, and opportunities that could be leveraged at both the community and regional levels. By documenting the presence of infrastructure, its current conditions, and highlighting needs, the project provides a foundation for informed planning, resource allocation, and collaborative regional development.

The research team developed and distributed an online survey to southeastern Minnesota communities with a population between 500 and 2,000 during March and April 2025. The survey collected information about the current infrastructure available in the communities (including transportation, water, housing, education, and telecommunication) and the condition of these systems, as well as the availability of community amenities (about 92 amenities organized into 11 categories). Overall, we received responses from 36 out of the 52 cities we contacted, meaning a completion rate of 69.2% (see Figure 1). Survey results were analyzed using qualitative, quantitative, and spatial methods, and visually mapped to provide an accessible overview of regional conditions. Results were shared with community stakeholders through five in-person meetings and one online webinar to review and deepen the findings and to spark opportunities for collaboration aimed at strengthening local infrastructure.