Rochester, MN – A groundswell of community support appears to have saved Townies, the beloved concession stand at Soldiers Field, from closing at the end of 2026. The Rochester Park Board, meeting on Tuesday, said it will enter negotiations with Townies to preserve its operation under the existing Soldiers Field concessions contract.
Petition drives change
When the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department recommended a new vendor partnership with Uni Uni Bubble Tea and Old Abe, many residents expressed outrage. Townies’ owner posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, stating, “We didn’t fail as a business. We believe we are being pushed out for refusing to remain silent.” In response, a petition to keep Townies open quickly amassed over 2,500 signatures, reflecting strong local attachment to the family‑run eatery.
Park Board’s response
During the Tuesday meeting, the Board announced it would move forward with negotiations directly with Townies. Parks and Recreation Director Paul Widman explained that public‑facing communication about the concession operation had raised numerous questions about financial terms and the City’s responsibilities. He emphasized that the Board’s discussion highlighted concerns about the accuracy of prior communications and a resulting loss of trust, underscoring the need for an open request‑for‑proposal (RFP) process.
Widman added that the upcoming negotiations will cover “financial terms, operating and maintenance responsibilities, communication expectations and service to park users.” Once an agreement is reached, it will be submitted to the Park Board for final approval. While the outcome is not yet guaranteed, the Board’s willingness to renegotiate signals a significant shift from the earlier recommendation to replace Townies.
Community reaction
Townies thanked supporters with a brief “Thank you” post on Facebook, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of local backing. Residents who signed the petition cited the stand’s role as a gathering place for families and park‑goers, noting its contribution to the community’s social fabric.
What’s next?
The Park Board’s decision to negotiate does not constitute a final resolution. The Board must still vote on any revised agreement before it can be enacted. Nevertheless, the move represents a hopeful development for a business that many consider a staple of Rochester’s park experience.
Background
Townies has operated at Soldiers Field for several years, providing snacks and beverages to park visitors. Earlier this year, the Parks and Recreation Department suggested a new concession partnership, prompting concerns about transparency and the potential loss of a locally cherished vendor. The recent petition and subsequent Board action illustrate how community engagement can influence municipal decisions.
Rochester residents are encouraged to stay informed about the upcoming negotiations and to continue supporting local businesses that enrich the city’s public spaces.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
