Resources – Studies – Partnerships

Preston Housing Needs Study
Read the study here.

Preston Historical Society Riverfront Master Plan
Learn more.

Fillmore County Housing Needs Study
Read the housing study here.

SMIF Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy 2023
Read the study here.

Southeast MN Economic Development Study
The Southeastern Minnesota League of Municipalities (SEMLM) in October of 2018, released a study with an updated economic forecast for southeast Minnesota, and options for several major policy shifts to accommodate population and employment growth over the next 25 years. Among the policy options and recommendations are zoning changes to support greater housing production, expanded transportation networks, a regional tourism strategy, immigrant support resources, and programs to increase access to childcare – all designed to grow the region’s economic development potential.
Read more about this study here.

Minnesota Small Business Development Center Partnership
The City of Preston has a partnership with the SBDC office in Rochester which provides quality assistance and services to business and entrepreneurs. The SBDC offers at no cost, confidential consulting to help businesses in SE MN identify, understand and overcome the challenges of starting a business, running a successful business, and developing exist strategies. For assistance contact by phone 507-738-1003.

PACE: Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program in the state of Minnesota.
This program was created by the state legislature as a funding mechanism for renewable energy and energy efficiency upgrades for businesses and non-profits. Fillmore County passed a joint powers agreement with the St. Paul Port Authority making this program available to Preston businesses. The process generally starts with an energy use assessment. These can be any of the energy efficiency options available through Preston Public Utilities, or some other no-cost options available throughout the state. Learn more at minnpace.com.