The Kandiyohi County Economic Development Joint Powers Board has appointed former Willmar Mayor Marv Calvin as its interim executive director. The decision came during a special meeting on Wednesday, following the resignation of Barbara Carr, who stepped down from the role on November 30.
Calvin was selected from a group of four candidates who expressed interest in the position. The other candidates included Ken Warner, former president of the Willmar Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce; Bill Fenske, former chief financial officer of Rice Memorial Hospital; and Linda Mathiasen, former director of the Granite Falls Economic Development Authority. Mathiasen later withdrew her application before the board meeting.
During the meeting, the remaining three candidates were interviewed, giving board members the opportunity to discuss their qualifications and suitability for the role. After considering the candidates, Kandiyohi County Commissioner Roger Imdieke suggested appointing Calvin as interim executive director. The motion was seconded by Willmar Mayor Doug Reese.
After a brief discussion, the board voted 5-1 in favor of Calvin’s appointment. Those supporting the motion included Imdieke, Reese, Willmar City Councilors Justin Ask and Vicki Davis, and Kandiyohi County Commissioner Corky Berg. The only vote against the motion came from Kandiyohi County Board Chair and Joint Powers Board Chair Steve Gardner.
Marv Calvin brings a wealth of experience to the position. Having served as Willmar’s mayor, he is familiar with local government operations, community development, and economic initiatives. His leadership is expected to provide stability to the Economic Development organization while the board searches for a permanent executive director.
Barbara Carr’s resignation left the organization without a leader at a critical time. The Economic Development office plays a key role in attracting businesses, supporting local projects, and fostering economic growth across Kandiyohi County. Having an experienced interim director in place ensures that ongoing projects continue without interruption.
The selection of Calvin reflects the board’s interest in someone who understands the local economy and has experience in public service. His appointment is seen as a way to maintain continuity and strengthen partnerships with businesses, local governments, and community organizations in the area.
While the interim role is temporary, it gives Calvin the opportunity to demonstrate his leadership and help guide the organization during this transitional period. The board will continue its search for a permanent executive director, but Calvin’s familiarity with the community and leadership experience make him a strong choice for the interim position.
Overall, the decision was welcomed by many members of the board who are hopeful that Calvin’s guidance will help Kandiyohi County Economic Development continue its work smoothly. The board aims to ensure that projects, business support programs, and community initiatives remain on track while planning for the organization’s future leadership.
With Calvin stepping into the interim role, the focus now turns to sustaining ongoing projects and exploring opportunities for economic growth in Kandiyohi County. His background in public service and understanding of the local business environment are expected to be valuable assets as the organization navigates this transition.
