Local Leaders Celebrate Niron Magnetics’ New Facility in Sartell

Local, state, and federal leaders convened on September 26, 2023, to celebrate the arrival of Niron Magnetics in Sartell, Minnesota. The company plans to construct a significant 190,000-square-foot facility on land previously occupied by the Verso Paper Mill. This state-of-the-art production site is expected to be fully operational by 2027, specializing in the creation of rare-earth-free permanent magnets utilized in a variety of products, including electronics, automotive components, and industrial machinery.

The event showcased a strong display of bipartisan support. Among the attendees were Rep. Tom Emmer, the U.S. majority whip, and Gov. Tim Walz. Also present was Rep. Betty McCollum, who emphasized the collaborative effort in advancing projects within Minnesota. McCollum noted, “When it comes to projects in Minnesota, as the dean getting to work with the whip, we do this in a non-partisan way.”

Jonathan Rowntree, CEO of Niron Magnetics, expressed gratitude for the community’s support and highlighted the project’s potential impact. “I specifically want to thank both the House Majority Whip, Rep. Tom Emmer, and Rep. Betty McCollum, for their steadfast support and willingness to take a risk on a new technology that will reduce U.S. reliance on China and create supply chain independence,” Rowntree stated.

Despite the positive atmosphere, moments of friendly banter punctuated the speeches. Emmer alluded to past comments made by Walz, stating, “It just makes me think, contrary to what some people might say, we have a lot more to offer out here than just rocks and cows.” In response, Walz acknowledged the significance of the technology originating from the University of Minnesota, reinforcing the idea of unity in progress. “I appreciate Rep. Emmer noting this, that this was founded at the University of Minnesota, in the heart of the Twin Cities,” he remarked.

The project has received financial backing from various sources, including a $2 million grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, awarded to the City of Sartell. State legislators, including Rep. Tim O’Driscoll, Rep. Bernie Perryman, and Rep. Lisa Demuth, attended the event, although they did not address the audience. Perryman later commented on the regional benefits of the project, saying, “If something really goes good here, it affects all of us, because the lines are so thin between our areas.”

Security measures during the event reflected recent concerns over political violence, with law enforcement present in the crowd and snipers positioned at elevated platforms. These precautions come in light of tragic incidents in Minnesota, including the fatal shootings of House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah.

The gathering not only marked a significant milestone for Niron Magnetics but also underscored the commitment of Minnesota’s leaders to fostering innovation and economic growth in the region. The establishment of this new facility is poised to create jobs and enhance the technological landscape, solidifying Sartell’s position as a key player in the magnet production industry.