St. Joseph is embarking on an exciting initiative to develop a community center that aims to serve residents of all ages. During a recent interview on WJON, Mayor Adam Scepaniak detailed the plans for this significant project, which will be executed in three phases. The City is working diligently to wrap up fundraising efforts by the end of this year, shifting focus from seeking large donors to encouraging smaller contributions from the public.
Phased Development
Phase 1 is set to commence in the spring of 2026, with an estimated budget of between $18 million and $19 million. This initial phase will encompass a variety of community spaces, including:
– Community rooms
– A free weight area
– A basketball court
– An indoor swimming pool
Despite initially aiming for more substantial financial support, Scepaniak noted that the response has not met expectations. As a result, the project will be implemented in phases. Currently, the city has gathered **$12 million** toward the total cost. “There’s a gap to close, but I believe we can get there,” Scepaniak expressed with optimism.
Phases 2 and 3 will build upon the foundation laid in the first phase, introducing additional features that residents have requested, such as:
– Outdoor pickleball courts
– A larger swimming pool, potentially accessible to St. Benedict’s College
– Additional amenities to enhance community engagement and recreation
Once completed, the Community Center will be managed by the YMCA and situated behind the city government center on Calloway Street East.
Municipal Cannabis Dispensary
In another development, the City of St. Joseph has received preliminary approval for a municipal cannabis dispensary from the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management. Mayor Scepaniak explained the next steps in the approval process, emphasizing the need for city validation, location selection, lease agreements, and a solid business plan. Fortunately, he reported that these elements are already in place.
“I believe the Office of Cannabis Management has everything they need to grant St. Joe approval for this dispensary. We are simply waiting for their notification to move forward,” Scepaniak stated. The management company has been chosen, and plans suggest the dispensary will occupy a location in a strip mall along County Road 75, effectively positioned alongside Snap Fitness.
While the mayor could not provide an exact timeline for when the cannabis management office would issue its approval, he remains hopeful for a swift resolution.
