Successful Business Development
Richmond is positioned for successful business development including:
Scenic Landscapes: Beautifully nestled in scenic central Minnesota, Richmond has a history as rich as the soils of the low-lying hills and flat farmlands its German ancestors cultivated near the scenic Sauk River and recreational gem known locally as the Chain of Lakes. The small town atmosphere is created by approximately 2,000 people and features quality educational opportunities, abundant open spaces & recreational facilities, a quaint downtown, updated utilities, a well-educated labor force and room to grow.
Richmond is situated in west central Stearns County, adjacent to Trunk Highway 23, just fifteen minutes southwest of St. Cloud. The City is approximately 70 miles from the Minneapolis/ St. Paul metropolitan area and is in U.S. Congressional District 7 and Minnesota Legislative District 14A.
Richmond enjoys all the amenities of a booming metro area while retaining its genuine small town character and friendliness. As an integral part of one of the state’s fastest growing areas, Richmond features a healthy economy and steady growth.
Financial Incentives Available to Developers
The City is pleased to offer the following incentives to qualified prospects.
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Tax increment financing.
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Tax abatement.
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Revolving Loan Fund.
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Sponsorship of Minnesota Investment Fund applications.
Government: The City of Richmond functions under a Mayor/Council and Administrator form of government. Regular Council meetings are the first Wednesday and third Thursday of each month.
Development proposals are reviewed, as required, by the Economic Development Authority, the Planning Commission and the City Council. A comprehensive land use plan is in effect. The building code has been adopted.
The City has a fire insurance rating of seven. A twenty-five volunteer fire department/rescue squad and the Cold Spring/Richmond Police Department that provides public protection services.
College: Richmond is close to the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University. The College and University were founded by Benedictine religious communities and enjoy exceptionally strong reputations. Their faculties and staff are mission-driven and strive to balance intellectual, moral, spiritual and physical aspects of personal development into their curriculums.
Located just minutes away in St. Cloud are several more institutions of higher learning including: St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud Technical College, Regency Beauty Academy and the Model College of Hair Design. Several other educational institutions including Concordia University offer access to classes in the St. Cloud area.
Recreational Opportunities: The Richmond area is known locally for great access to a variety of surface waters (Sauk River and Lakes within Chain of Lakes), hunting, camping, fishing and natural areas. The City also features an indoor ice arena, numerous park opportunities, pickleball courts, and the Glacial Lakes Regional Trail traverses the City. The trail features a bituminous surface which winds through scenic central Minnesota and is available for pedestrians, cyclists and snowmobilers. A An active Arts and Music Council organizes several family-friendly community events throughout the year.
Richmond features a number of service organizations including the Richmond Economic Development Authority, Civic and Commerce, Music and Art in the Park, American Legion, Lions Club, Scouting, and Snowmobile Clubs.
Health Care Services: The City of Richmond is just minutes from the St. Cloud Hospital, part of CentraCare Regional Health System. Locally, the City features one medical clinic staffed with a team of healthcare professionals providing primary care with convenient access to specialty medicine.
Roadways: HWY 23 is a four-lane roadway which traverses the City. Daily traffic count estimates are 12,000 t.p.d. State Highway 22, Stearns County State Aid Highway 9, and CSAH 23 are major routes within/through the City.
Interstate 94 is located about 15 minutes from Downtown Richmond.
Trucking: Ten truck lines and two truck terminals are available within the area.
Airports: The St. Cloud Regional Airport is located 15 miles from the City of Richmond. The St. Cloud Regional Airport features paved, lighted runways and supports charter and freight traffic. Navigational aids include beacon, DME and VOR/DME. The longest runway is 7,000 feet.
The Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport is located seventy miles southeast of Richmond. Airlines at MSP include American, Delta, Northwest, Sun Country, United and TWA.
Shuttle service is available from St. Cloud Regional Airport to Minneapolis-St. Paul International. Regional connects are available from St. Cloud to MSP.
Water/Sanitary Sewer: The City of Richmond provides municipal water sanitary sewer service to the community.
Electrical: Stearns Electric Association and Xcel Energy Company provide electrical service to the community. Business rates may be available.
Gas: Centerpoint Energy provides the City with natural gas services