The Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce provided testimony at the November 5 public hearing regarding the proposed closure of Minnesota State Community and Technical College's (M State) Detroit Lakes campus.
The Minnesota State Board of Trustees authorized the process to consider closure in October, with a final decision expected later in November. M State anticipates the physical campus will remain operational until at least summer 2028.
While recognizing the challenges of declining enrollment and maintaining an aging facility, the Chamber's testimony emphasized two priorities: continued access to education and workforce development opportunities in Detroit Lakes, and a responsible plan for the future of the physical campus.
Keeping Detroit Lakes Part of M State's Future
The Chamber encouraged Minnesota State to distinguish between the financial sustainability of the existing building and the long-term viability of Detroit Lakes as a location for educational programming.
With plans to relocate the remaining academic programs, the Chamber asked whether Detroit Lakes will continue to be considered for future educational opportunities and workforce training.
Our regional employers continue to need skilled workers, and accessible education remains important for students and working adults. The Chamber encouraged M State to explore alternative approaches, including partnerships with local employers, schools, healthcare organizations, and other community facilities.
Closing a traditional campus should not mean closing the door on educational opportunities in Detroit Lakes.
Ensuring a Viable Future for the Physical Campus
The Chamber also raised concerns about the future of the publicly owned facility.
M State has projected approximately $1 million in annual operating savings and more than $18 million in future capital investment needs associated with the campus.
These figures raise important questions about the financial feasibility of repurposing the building. Even if the property were made available at a nominal purchase price, the cost of addressing deferred maintenance and adapting the facility for another use could be substantial.
The Chamber encouraged Minnesota State to provide a transparent assessment of the building's condition and work collaboratively with the City of Detroit Lakes, Becker County, the Detroit Lakes School District, and other community partners to explore realistic options for its future.
The Chamber also called for Minnesota State to explore opportunities for state participation and financial assistance that could help make productive reuse possible.
The Chamber's Commitment
The Chamber recognizes that M State must make decisions that support the long-term sustainability of the college. At the same time, those decisions have implications for our regional workforce, local businesses, and the broader community.
As emphasized in the Chamber's testimony:
"A responsible decision to close a campus should be accompanied by an equally responsible plan for the future of the public asset being left behind."
The Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber will continue to follow the Board's decision-making process, engage with Minnesota State leadership, and work with community partners to advocate for continued workforce development opportunities and a viable future for the campus property.
Our goal is to ensure that this long-standing community asset has the opportunity to continue contributing to Detroit Lakes and the surrounding region for generations to come.