County’s strategic vision for the future

Aitkin County is proud to announce the completion and official adoption of its 2025–2028 Strategic Plan by the board of commissioners.
This strategic plan provides a roadmap to address today’s challenges, seizes emerging opportunities and prepares for a stronger
future. This plan, which is a product of extensive engagement and input from commissioners, employees and a public focus group,
focuses on delivering quality services, fostering thoughtful economic development, honoring our local heritage and maintaining
Aitkin County’s close-knit community feel.

As we look to the future, Aitkin County faces both challenges and opportunities. We’re working to enhance current businesses,attract new businesses
and year-round residents while preserving our local heritage and close-knit community. With shifts in population and migration from cities, there are
new possibilities for economic development and revitalization. Aitkin County’s natural resources, recreational appeal and traditions
give us a solid foundation to grow responsibly and sustainably.

To serve the community effectively, we must continue to support departmental collaboration, adapting to new technologies, and managing workforce
shifts from retirements and turnover. This plan prioritizes collaboration, innovation and operational efficiency to create a supportive, motivating
work environment that ultimately enhances our public service.

COUNTY GOALS FOR SUCCESS WILL FOCUS ON THREE AREAS:
• Community Engagement and Economic Development
Improve how we connect with the public by being proactive and bringing people together. Focus on balancing economic growth
with preserving traditions, maintaining public safety, sustaining an effective transportation system and tackling community issues,
while protecting our beautiful natural resources.

• Unified Approach to Effectiveness
Build a trusting, smooth-running, flexible organization that sticks together, makes decisions based on solid data and encourages open talks to
quickly reach consensus.

• Talent Acquisition, Development and Well-being
Streamline talent recruitment and retention to maximize efficiency and performance while reducing turnover and associated costs. Empower employees at all
levels to continuously learn, grow and innovate, fostering a supportive work environment.

Find the county Strategic Plan on the website: https://www.co.aitkin.mn.us/.

Mark Jeffers is the Aitkin County Economic Development Coordinator,

mark.jeffers@aitkincountymn.gov