Local business development that includes household-supporting wages ranks as the most critical community issue in rural Minnesota, a report from the Grand Rapids-based Blandin Foundation finds.

According to a survey of nearly 1,700 rural community leaders, 89 percent of respondents indicated that local business development is the most urgent issue that needs to be addressed by rural communities. Of the 89 percent, 52 percent indicated that "attracting businesses to my region" is most important; 26 percent indicated "retaining existing businesses" is most important, and 11 percent said "supporting local entrepreneurs" should be the top priority. The survey also revealed that economic diversity, funding for business development, downtown revitalization, high-speed Internet availability, and support for small businesses and family farms were critical issues, as well.

"Increasing the number of jobs that pay household supporting wages, and benefits that support families and retain young people, comes through loud and clear," said Jim Krile, director of the foundation's Blandin Community Leadership Program.

Other important issues are the rising cost of health care and insurance (35 percent), quality K-12 education (34 percent), and reducing illegal drug use (26 percent).