Minnesota has a unique climate that is unbelievably damaging to masonry. There are continuous freeze/thaw cycles. Look at the potholes.
The countless freeze/thaw cycles do tremendous damage when water is able to permeate the masonry, freezing and thawing repeatedly. Maintaining the mortar joints through periodic repointing assures a sound building envelope. Ongoing neglect leads to greater expenses when damage has developed.
Much of the world may be able to let masonry buildings go for decades and even centuries. Unmaintained buildings in Minnesota will eventually end up in similar condition as unmaintained roads.