Region Nine Development Commission Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

The Region Nine Development Commission (RNDC) is celebrating 50 years of serving the nine-county area. Since 1972, RNDC has worked on behalf of the residents of Region Nine. From helping businesses get off the ground, to helping communities recover from natural disasters, RNDC has been there to provide funding, planning, and expertise to the area. 

The commission is looking back at five decades of service with a celebration taking place on January 11, 2023. The event will be held at the historic Kato Ballroom and will feature current and former commissioners, staff, partners, and regional stakeholders. 

RNDC Chair Mike Laven and Executive Director Nicole Griensewic will discuss highlights from the last year and plans for 2023. Former U.S. Representative and current President of the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), Tim Penny will be on hand to talk about the importance of partnerships in regional development. There will be an interview with Colette Stone, widow of former RNDC Executive Director and NADO President Terry Stone as well as other special guests.