Why Willmar? - Kerry Johnson

In your opinion, what makes the Willmar Lakes area such a great place to live, work, play, and do business?

With many lakes in our area, Willmar is ideally located for those who love the outdoors and recreation. Our central location places us within easy reach of rural Minnesotans who find Willmar a great location to shop, seek medical care and enjoy social activities. Willmar has become a culturally diverse and peaceful place to live, work, play, and to do business. I feel that Willmar is a place that is very accepting of all who chose to call this home. I also believe that those who live in this area possess a strong work ethic and hold traditional moral and ethical values which makes Willmar a great place to raise a family.

What does Community Leadership mean to you?

Community leadership can mean a great variety of things and doesn't mean that you need to be verbally expressive to be a community leader. For instance, by volunteering at the Food Shelf or the Woman's Shelter, you are showing community leadership. Community Leadership can come in the form of Chamber volunteers, political activity, mentoring, or any form of charitable volunteer work. Everyone should find a suitable form of community leadership and apply themselves.

Where do you see the Willmar Lakes area in the next ten years?

I see Willmar continuing to enjoy a patten of growth in retail and medical services. It is my hope that we will be more proactive in seeking Industrial and Technology growth. We certainly have the location and amenities to attract higher paying Industrial and Technological expansion.