Northome – Minnesota
Heart of Big Bear Country.
Northome is located on the shores of Bartlett Lake and Island Lake is to the south.
Northome, MN
Region
Lake Crystal, MN
Lake Crystal – Minnesota
Lake Crystal is a city in Blue Earth County.
There are four lakes near the city. Crystal Lake, Lily Lake, Mills Lake, and Loon Lake. Crystal Lake is the largest and sits in the center of town providing access to a fishing pier, public landings, and warm and cold water sports.
Ellendale, MN
Ellendale – Minnesota
Ellendale is located about 82 miles south of the Twin Cities.
Ellendale is located 14 miles south of Owatonna and 16 miles north of Albert Lea at Interstate 35 and Highway 30.
Zumbrota, MN
Zumbrota – Minnesota
Zumbrota is located between the Twin Cities and Rochester off Highway 52.
Located along the North Fork of the Zumbro River and is home to the last functioning covered bridge in the state of Minnesota.
Kurt Meister
Kurt became a member of the CEDA team in July of 2022. As a graduate of South Dakota State University in Brookings (Go Jackrabbits!!) with a Bachelor of Arts in History, and a Masters Degree from the University of Minnesota, Kurt taught AP and regular Human Geography at John Marshall High School in Rochester for 23 years.
Kurt grew up in the community of Hamilton, Illinois and is passionate in helping small communities succeed. His father was a 3rd generation small business owner (Meister Music - Keokuk, IA) which will aid Kurt as he helps the community of Zumbrota in its growth.
Winnebago, MN
Winnebago – Minnesota
Winnebago is located approximately 35 miles south of Mankato on US Highway 169.
Winnebago statement.
Macey Becker
Macey Becker joined the CEDA team in October 2024 as an intern, and in March 2025, transitioned into a part-time role as a Community and Economic Development Specialist for the City of Winnebago. She is passionate about supporting economic and community growth in rural areas and is excited to make a lasting impact. Macey will graduate in May 2025 with a Bachelor's degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship, equipping her with the skills to help communities and businesses thrive.
