 The state of the city of Bemidji is strong. That's according to Bemidji Mayor Rita Albright in her fifth state of the city address that she has given. Her address tonight was part of the Bemidji City Council meeting. Albright's speech highlighted many of the city's successes and areas of opportunity. One of the areas of opportunity that was also considered a success was the Sanford Regional Event Center. By all accounts, the investment that our community made in the Sanford Center has produced great economic benefits for our community. More visitors and restaurants, hotels and gas stations increased shopping in our retail sector. We welcome these visitors to our community because they make our businesses successful. The address covered the continued growth of the city of Bemidji and the significant increase in the city's population. The mayor also focused on joint planning and called out Bemidji Township for not participating on the JPB. Our joint planning organization continues to function even without the participation of Bemidji Township. It's unfortunate that Bemidji Township Supervisors are not participating in the joint planning board. They also are no longer paying their fair share and development project proposers in the Township are bearing this cost. The JPB increased planning fees for land use applications in Bemidji Township to cover the Township share. Other challenges mentioned in the address were completing the city's comprehensive plan, developing relationships with area tribes and improving lake quality. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.