The City of Owatonna is the county seat of Steele County and is located at the crossroads of Interstate 35 and U.S. Highways 14 and 218. It is experiencing steady growth with an estimated population of 26,647. Owatonna’s scenic setting, healthy economy, quality lifestyle and proximity to the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area are factors that have contributed to its growth. Surrounded by abundant woodland areas, streams, lakes, rivers and natural areas, the City of Owatonna provides a full range of services including police and fire protection, a public library, community and economic development, construction and maintenance of 132 miles of streets, stormwater and sanitary sewer systems and other infrastructure plus 867 acres of parkland and 17-plus miles of trails. Owatonna’s scenic setting, healthy economy, quality lifestyle and proximity to the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area are factors that have contributed to its growth. Surrounded by abundant woodland areas, streams, lakes, rivers and natural areas, the City of Owatonna provides a full range of services including police and fire protection, a public library, community and economic development, construction and maintenance of 132 miles of streets, stormwater and sanitary sewer systems and other infrastructure plus 867 acres of parkland and 17-plus miles of trails.