Description

Join us at the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities' annual Summer Conference in New Ulm! Enjoy a lineup of engaging speakers, take part in interactive discussions, and connect with city officials and staff from throughout Greater Minnesota, all while exploring some of Minnesota's most iconic historical landmarks and immersing yourself in New Ulm's rich German heritage! Click here to view the event flyer.

This page is for attendee registration only. Exhibitor information and registration is available here.

Conference agenda/schedule

Wednesday, July 22

10am - Registration opens at the New Ulm Conference Center

12pm - Conference welcome

12:05pm - Lunch & Legislative Update

Start the summer conference with a legislative lunch & learn from CGMC Executive Director Bradley Peterson.

1 pm - Presentation from Joe Sullivan, Vice-Chair of the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission

Hear from Vice Chair of the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Joe Sullivan on the work of the PUC, how it impacts local governments, and how local governments can get more involved with the PUC.

1:45pm - Break

2:00pm - Discussion of the Agriculture Industry with MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen

Join Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen for an engaging session on recent agricultural impacts on Greater MN and his reflections on the state of the industry. 

3:15pm - MN Gubernatorial Candidate Town Hall with Kendall Qualls

Join the CGMC for an exclusive town hall with the candidates for Minnesota Governor. 

3:45pm - Break & hotel check-in

5pm - Dinner & evening activity

Dine inside the landmark August Schell’s Brewery and enjoy a traditional German-style meal. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the brewery, try local brews, and listen to live music!

Thursday, July 23

8am -  Host city tours

Visit Hermann the German, explore New Ulm’s outdoor activities and community investments, or discover downtown New Ulm! See full tour descriptions below. 

10:30am - Exhibit hall opens

Connect with the vendors and sponsors that help support the CGMC Summer Conference and enjoy snacks in the exhibit hall.

12pm - Lunch & Learn with SMIF President & CEO Benya Kraus

Benya Kraus, President and CEO of the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), will share what is on the horizon for southern MN. 

12:45pm - MN Gubernatorial Candidate Town Hall with MN House Speaker Lisa Demuth 

Join the CGMC for an exclusive town hall with the candidates for Minnesota Governor. 

1:15pm - Exhibit hall break

1:45pm - MN Gubernatorial Candidate Town Hall

2:15pm - Exhibit hall break

2:45pm - Presentation from Chad Kolstad, Acting Executive Director of the PFA

Hear from Chad Kolstad, Acting Executive Director of the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, on key priorities affecting Greater Minnesota communities.

3:30pm - MN Retiring Legislator Panel

Engage in a Q&A session with a panel of retiring legislators including Representative Paul Torkelson, Representative Erin Koegel, and Senator Bill Weber. Hear about their careers in the legislature and future predictions of the state of Greater MN.

4:30pm - Break

5pm - Legislative Awards Cocktail Reception

Get the evening started by gathering at the historic Turner Hall, the oldest bar in Minnesota!

6pm - Legislative Awards Dinner

Celebrate our Greater Minnesota advocates and allies at our annual Legislative Awards Dinner and ceremony!

Friday, July 24

8am - Breakfast

8:30am - CGMC Labor & Employment update

Join the CGMC and staff from Flaherty & Hood, P.A., to hear updates on recent labor and employment laws relevant to your city.

10:45am - CGMC membership meeting

The CGMC membership will vote on the organization's dues policy, budget, and Board of Directors for the upcoming year.

11:30am - Conference adjourns

Hotel information

There is a limited number of rooms remaining under the CGMC room block at the Best Western Plus New Ulm. You can call the hotel directly at 507-359-2941 using the code 26CGMNCS to book under the room block.

Additional hotels near the conference center include the Microtel Inn & Suites and the AmericInn by Wyndham Sleepy Eye. 

Tour options

At every CGMC Summer Conference, attendees have the opportunity to tour the host community. Tours will take place on Thursday morning this year. During registration, you will be asked to select your first and second tour preference from the options listed below:

Tour option #1 - From Hermann Monument to SouthPoint Recreation and Wellness Center: Investing in Community Recreation

Begin your Park and Recreation tour at the iconic Hermann Monument, where sweeping views and rich history set the stage for exploring New Ulm’s outdoor amenities and community investments. The experience concludes at the SouthPoint Recreation and Wellness Center, showcasing a modern facility that exemplifies the community’s commitment to health, wellness, and long-term investment in quality of life. The tour highlights recent enhancements and amenities that were made possible through the voter-approved local option sales tax, emphasizing its role in expanding recreational opportunities and maintaining high-quality public spaces.

Tour option #2 - Streets of Heritage: Discovering Downtown New Ulm 

Explore the charm and heritage of New Ulm on a guided downtown walking tour that highlights our rich German roots, historic architecture, and vibrant local culture. Stroll past iconic landmarks and unique shops while learning about the city’s founding and development. The tour includes a visit to the Brown County Historical Society Museum, where engaging exhibits and artifacts bring the region’s history to life. 

Activity option #3 - Golfing at the New Ulm Country Club. 

Attendees who do not choose to participate in either of the tours are welcome to participate in a round of golf at the scenic 18-hole course along the Cottonwood River. Please note that attendees will be responsible for their transportation, equipment, and golf fees.

The CGMC will reserve tee times for Thursday morning. Please select the "Golf" option during registration to ensure that there is space reserved for you. 

Exhibitor information

Businesses or organizations interested in exhibiting at the CGMC Summer Conference or sponsoring the conference should click here for more information and registration.