 Numbers released this week show that Beltrami County has grown by 4.6 percent since 2010. Josh Peterson shows us what that means for the city of Bemidji. Bemidji, first city on the Mississippi and home to the fourth highest growth in population in greater Minnesota. New numbers recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau show that altogether the greater Bemidji region grew by 3,700 people since 2010. I think the rapid growth at Sanford Health, the rapid growth and some of the quality of life amenities make this a great place for a person to live and to raise a family and to start a business. The population growth is an indicator of financial strength. For the first time, economic activity within the city of Bemidji just surpassed one billion dollars. Well, we're becoming the regional center. There's no doubt about it. And there's been this debate in Bemidji whether are we becoming regional center or is that what we want to be, we are. While Bemidji continues to boom for business, one area of need has always been housing. However, the city has been able to keep up with the demand. Another sign of a healthy community is the boom in new housing construction. But even with all the new homes being built, there will always be a need. There's always a shortage in some places, but it's always a little bit more complicated in the sense that I think Bemidji has been doing really well when it comes to the development of new multiple family housing units. But while these numbers mean some growing pains for the area, overall it's still good news. It's really encouraging for the region. We're always interested in seeing growth and new opportunity. In Bemidji, Josh Peterson, Lakeland News. Bemidji is expected to see its population continue to grow through the year 2020 because of new businesses in the area and improvements to quality of life. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.