Did you know that Polk-Burnett is active in local economic development organizations and partners on projects that benefit the communities we serve? We believe economic development leads to:

1. Capital investment in our community.
2. Workforce development, and creation and retention of good local jobs.
3. An improved quality of life for all who live and work here.

Inviting people to live and work here

I'd like to introduce you to a new website launched by the Polk County Economic Development Corp. called ProsperInPolk.com. The site invites people to build a better life in Polk County, to live and work here, and enjoy the special lifestyle that we all love so much. I encourage you to share ProsperInPolk.com with friends and family, especially those who might like to move their family or business here from the Twin Cities. Retaining and attracting a skilled workforce, creating good paying jobs, and supporting housing and commercial development across Polk and Burnett counties strengthens our community and benefits all of us. An improved local economy is a rising tide that lifts all boats!

Supporting safety and local fire stations

Because we are a cooperative, Polk-Burnett is eligible for loan funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support rural economic development. USDA loans are awarded to the co-op and then passed through to community partners, where they are paid back in full and do not affect electricity rates for our members. Over the past decade, we have been approved for three USDA pass-through loans to help build new fire stations in three local communities. The loans are zero-percent interest and provide considerable cost savings for taxpayers over the life of the loan.

We are proud to be a part of the following projects that improve safety and the quality of life for local residents:

2013: $300,000, Grantsburg Fire Association, Grantsburg Fire Hall
2019: $694,880, Allied Emergency Services, Alden Fire Hall
2021: $180,000, Town of Lorain, Lorain Fire Station

While the recent loans have been to local fire associations to support our rural communities, the loans are open to all businesses looking to expand or relocate in our service area. Give us a call or visit our economic development webpage to learn more.

As we celebrate National Co-op Month, I'd like to thank you for the opportunity to serve you, as well as area businesses and community organizations. Co-ops exist to serve a local need. We're proud to power your life and economic development in our beautiful part of Wisconsin.