Welcome to Floodwood – At the Center of Everything 

 

As Mayor of Floodwood, I’m proud to welcome you to a community that’s small in size but rich in character, connection, and opportunity.  Strategically located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 2 and Minnesota State Highway 73, Floodwood may be affectionately called “the middle of nowhere” by some, but we know we are truly at “the center of everything.” 

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We are uniquely positioned just 35 to 40 minutes from Duluth, Cloquet, Grand Rapids, Hibbing, and Moose Lake, placing us at the heart of Northeast Minnesota.  This central location makes Floodwood a vital regional hub, home to essential public services including a MnDOT truck station, DNR Forestry Office, St. Louis County Public Works, Arrowhead Transit, and Floodwood Services and Training, which supports adults with physical and mental health challenges. 

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Our pride in the community is reflected in our strong commitment to education and early childhood development.  Floodwood is home to a comprehensive K-12 school and the Polar Cubs Childcare Center, as well as a medical and dental clinic that delivers healthcare to residents in need across the region.  We offer a variety of sports, social, and religious activities, all contributing to the strong sense of community that makes Floodwood an inviting place to live, work, and grow. 

 

Facing Challenges with Vision and Resilience 

 

Despite our central location and valuable services, Floodwood faces real economic challenges.  Our median household income is $33,274, which is significantly below both county ($53,344) and state ($74,593) averages. Over 70% of our residents qualify as low to moderate income, and a sizable portion of local property is tax-exempt, which limits our ability to raise revenue. As a result, our small tax base means that any increase in property taxes would place a significant burden on our residents and businesses. These realities make it difficult to invest in critical infrastructure without outside support. However, they also motivate us to plan smarter and work harder to build a sustainable future. 

 

Planning for Growth – Investing in Floodwood’s Future 

 

We are actively investing in that future.  The City of Floodwood has requested $2,000,000 in state funding to expand our water and wastewater infrastructure along County Road 832 (Floodwood Road), an essential step to support both residential and commercial growth. We have also purchased and annexed 127.5 acres of land, with plans underway to extend sewer, water, and street infrastructure to this newly acquired property. 

 

This expansion is central to our vision for economic development and will open new opportunities for residential and commercial building.  As part of our comprehensive master planning effort, we are preparing for: 

• Platting and zoning for residential and commercial development 

• Extending essential infrastructure including water, sewer, and roads 

• Fire hydrant installation for enhanced fire protection and system maintenance 

• Encouraging diverse growth through mixed-use development 

 

Join Us as We Grow 

 

Though we face challenges, Floodwood is a community of strength, vision, and possibility.  We are ready for growth, and we are building a future that welcomes new residents, businesses, and opportunities.  With key assets already in place and a master plan guiding the way, Floodwood remains a proud gateway to the Iron Range, and invites you to be a part of our story. 

 

Sincerely,  

Tad Farrell 

Mayor of Floodwood