Brooklyn Park Mayor’s Minutes: Tessman Ridge Development and Small Business Center
In this Mayor’s Minutes, Brooklyn Park Mayor Hollies Winston spoke with Dave Kiser to introduce two new people working for the city and to cover the upcoming Restaurant Week. He also discussed the Tessman Ridge development now under construction and the Small Business Center opening soon.
New Council Member
The city of Brooklyn Park recently had a special election for a vacant seat on the City Council representing the West District. Winston introduced the new council member, Tony McGarvey.
His election means the city now has a full city council.
“We’re looking forward to having the full council, and getting the work of the council done,” Winston said.
New Fire Chief
Another position in the city recently announced is the chief of the fire department. After a robust, nationwide search, Shawn Conway was recommended for the role of chief. Conway is currently serving as the interim chief. Winston described him as “excellent.”
“He’s done almost everything you can do within a fire department,” explained Winston. “We’re excited to have his leadership on board, and I know that the staff is also very much excited to have him on board as well.”
Restaurant Week
Restaurant Week celebrates and supports local restaurants in Brooklyn Park each year. This year, diners can enjoy specials at participating restaurants from Sunday, Sept. 10 through Saturday, Sept. 16. Winston said Brooklyn Park has over 100 restaurants and many are family-owned small businesses with wonderful food.
“I would say when you go to those family-owned [restaurants] or some of the other restaurants as well, you’re directly paying into people’s families and supporting them, but then you’re also getting delicious food out of it,” Winston said.
Winston added that the Restaurant Week promotion fits into the direction the city is headed. He said the city will be “leaning” into its restaurants and the diversity there. He hopes to bring even more restaurants to Brooklyn Park.
Tessman Ridge Development
Construction recently began on a new housing development on 85th Ave. across the street from North Hennepin Community College. The development will provide over 70 units of affordable housing. Winston said the community college is growing and this will provide some housing for students.
Tessman Ridge represents the first affordable housing development in decades, but Winston expects more to come.
“I also want to let people know that the city is…pivoting more to a market rate look,” Winston explained. “This all fits within a general strategy we have for growth within our city.”
Lastly, Winston expressed his excitement for Tessman Ridge.
See more about the project on Brooklyn Park’s website on the “Under Construction” tab.
Construction underway on Tessman Ridge
Small Business Center
Finally, the new Small Business Center will be opening soon in late August. It’s located on the corner of West Broadway and Brooklyn Boulevard.
The center will offer different memberships ranging from $50 to $800 a month. Those memberships include options like having areas to meet with clients, a workspace or a private workspace with internet connection, or even an office suite. Winston said it could also help business owners who just need a mailing address.
Other resources for small businesses will also be offered.
“It’s going to have technical assistance and a bunch of other programs that can help people grow their businesses,” said Winston. “And then we know that business is all about networking, so excited to have that come up as well.”
Get more information and become a member at bpsbc.org.
More from the Brooklyns: Now Hiring! Job Opportunities in Brooklyn Center
