CSDED Staff Bio's
Our quality staff is focused on improving the economic and overall lifestyle of the district. The team is qualified and committed to providing service and technical expertise on a wide variety of issues.
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Marlene |
Marlene Knutson joined the staff of the Central SD Enhancement District as the Executive Director on May 15, 2007. Marlene has a Bachelor of Arts Degree from South Dakota State University. Immediately before coming to the CSDED, Marlene served as the Executive Director for the Lemmon Area Charitable and Economic Development Corporation for approximately 1 ½ years. Previous to that position, she worked for the First District Association of Local Governments for 26+ years in various capacities. Many of those years were spent working with local units of government in project financial development and packaging, along with project administration. Other areas included development of personnel policies for units of governments, assisting with environmental reviews for businesses and governments wishing to utilize various federal funds, research federal and state laws, leadership training, etc. |
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Al |
Al Haugen joined the Central SD Enhancement District (CSDED) in January 2010 as a Planner. Al earned a Master of Arts degree in Urban Planning from Mankato State University, and did his undergraduate studies in Community Development at Saint Cloud State University. Al has worked as an intern for the City of Ramsey, MN and the City of Isanti, MN. Prior to arriving at CSDED, Al worked for a crop insurance underwriter, NAU Country Insurance, for four (4) years. Al has experience with Geographic Information Systems, Aquatic Plant Management, Grant-Writing and Land-Use Zoning. |
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Justin |
Justin Otsea, the newest planner, joined the District staff in June, 2011. Justin graduated from Minnesota State University (MSU), Mankato in December, 2010 receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Urban and Regional Studies and Communication Studies. In May, 2011, Justin received a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from MSU, Mankato. Justin completed an internship helping to map the Southern Utah Wilderness area and assisted in the development of a city brochure for St. James, Minnesota. Other work experience includes the food service and warehouse sectors. Initially, Justin will be responsible for completing the Hazard Mitigation Plans for Hyde, Haakon, and Sully counties. Other work areas at the District will include financing applications, community development, comprehensive planning, GIS, etc. |