The city of Crookston has been in search of a new Community Development Director, and last week the city announced the hiring of Robert Barnes Jr. to fill the role. Barnes is originally from Tennessee and moved to McIntosh, Minnesota, to be closer to family. He will commute from McIntosh and started this past Thursday, September 30.
City Administrator Amy Finch was a part of the hiring process and talked about what made Barnes stand out. “He has a strong background in economic development and has a history of working with public boards,” said Finch. “He had a good sense of humor, prepared well for the interview, and understands some of the challenges we’re dealing with. He wants to help develop and guide the department, and this role will be a good fit for him.”
As for Barnes, he talked about his background and what he loves about Community Development. “I started doing economic development back in Tennessee,” said Barnes. “It’s an opportunity to work with leaders, it’s an opportunity to work with a team, and it’s an opportunity to build communities which I enjoy. A community is no different than a person, you’re always trying to improve yourself, and likewise, a community is trying to work together to improve itself and work towards a common goal.”
Barnes talked about a few of his goals and ambitions he has for the city. “The goals are very simple; the first goal is to start building partnerships,” said Barnes. “I can’t build a road, I can’t run power, I can’t move one grain of dirt. However, this community has all the assets in place to accomplish everything we would want to and move in that direction as a team.”
Barnes will work for the city of Crookston as well as serving as the Executive Director of CHEDA and reporting to the CHEDA board.
Barnes discussed his role and making sure he maintains the vision his superiors have when it comes to the city of Crookston. “Crookston is a phenomenal community,” said Barnes. “The goal is to maintain the plan our leaders have and to maintain the friendliness this community has. For me, that’s making sure that I do my part in helping move the city forward.”
