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Home My WebLink AboutCommunity Development Agency - CDA-Packet-05-07-2025 Supporting Documents - 05/07/2025 OTTER TAIL COUNTY – MINNESOTA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA Government Services Center, Otter Tail Lake Room 515 West Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN May 7, 2025 | 11:00 am 1.Call to Order 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Approval of Consent Agenda A. April 2, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes B. March 2025 Financial Reports 4. Reports and Presentations A. Director Status Report B. Committee Reports Housing and Development Workforce Support and Digital Equity Business Development C. ‘On the Map’ Report D. Board Member Updates 5. Regular Business A. None 6. Discussion and Communications A. Project Updates: a. Pinewood Estates, Pelican Rapids b. Westridge Mall, Fergus Falls B. Other Communications C. Upcoming Meeting: a. Wednesday, June 4 at 11:00 am, Otter Tail Lake Room, Government Services Center with HRA Board meeting beginning at 12:45 pm 7. Adjourn Work Session with the Housing and Redevelopment Authority Board to follow regular CDA board meeting 1/21 2/21 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY Government Services Center, County Board Room 515 W Fir Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 April 2, 2025 Call to Order The Otter Tail County Community Development Agency convened at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Dave Schornack, CDA Board Chair led the meeting. Attendance was as follows: Present in person Present via Technology Absent Commissioners: Jeff Ackerson x Dena Johnson x Val Martin x Kurt Mortenson x Betsy Roder x at 11:27 Heidi Samuelson x Bob Schempp Jr. x Dave Schornack x Sean Sullivan x Staff: Amy Baldwin, CDA Director x Tanya Westra, Housing Program Supervisor x Sarah Schake, Project Manager x Erik Osberg, Rural Rebound Initiative Coordinator x Aann Christopherson, Accountant x Paula Grunewald, HRA Administrative Assistant x Approval of Agenda The agenda was to stand as presented. Approval of Consent Agenda Motion by Dena Johnson, second by Sean Sullivan to approve the Consent Agenda Including the January and February Financial Reports. Motion passed unanimously. A new version of the financial reports will be available next month. Reports and Presentations A. Director’s Report included: Housing Summit will be May 14, 2025 for a half day, over 70 people are registered and we will continue to market the event. February Housing Convention was virtual and MAHUBE-OTWA shared their programs. The Otter Tail County Workforce & Employment Data chart was presented. At the end of 2024, the County’s Labor Force was 15% higher than projected in 2024. Empowered Worker Update B. Committee Reports Workforce Support and Digital Equity - Newsletter will be distributed 3/21 OTTERTAIL COUNTY -MINNESOTA Business Development  Perham’s Growth  Discussion on having a Strategic Partner Event for Otter Tail County. Perham Health recently held one and it was well attended with good communication. C. On the Map Report Erik Osberg, Rural Rebound Initiative Coordinator stated  1st quarter numbers - social audience has increased. “Did they see it?” was up 51% and “Did they care?” was up 80%  Gopher relationships are going well. D. Board Member Updates  Dena Johnson shared that road construction starts next week in Pelican Rapids  Kurt Mortenson shared that Perham and Battle Lake have recently had positive Star Tribune articles published about their communities Regular Business Items A. Community Growth Partnership Grant Application: City of Battle Lake Housing Infrastructure Amy Baldwin, CDA Director stated the City of Battle Lake is requesting matching dollars in the amount of $100,000 for a proposed 10 lot subdivision on a 3.5 acres lot in Battle Lake being advanced by Habitat for Humanity. This public infrastructure match will enable the city to move forward with State funding requests through MN Housing which require non state dollars as a match. The estimated cost of the project is $412,000. Motion by Kurt Mortenson, second by Dena Joynson to approve authorization of the grant request and direct staff to prepare necessary agreement. Motion passed unanimously. Val Martin abstained from voting. B. Community Growth Partnership Grant Application: City of Battle Lake Business Improvement Program Amy Baldwin, CDA Director stated that the City Battle Lake is requesting a $10,000 grant for Commercial Rehab Loans to encourage the beautification and improvement of Battle Lake businesses. Battle Lake Lions Club, Battle Lake Community Fund and Battle Lake EDA have provided matching funds. Motion by Sean Sullivan, second by Kurt Mortenson to approve authorization of the grant request and direct staff to prepare necessary agreement for the City of Battle Lake Business Improvement Program. Motion passed unanimously. Val Martin abstained from voting. Discussion and Communications A. Project Updates: a. Pinewood Estates, Pelican Rapids – Amy Baldwin, CDA Director stated that the preconstruction appraisal has been completed and Highpoint Homes is ready to move forward with home construction. On March 29, development information was provided to the community at the Pelican Showcase . b. Westridge Mall, Fergus Falls – Amy Baldwin stated that the request to accept the purchase agreement action has taken place. Staff has met with some of the businesses. Presently exploring a Tax Increment Financing district and other financing options. B. Other Communications  Discussed Community Growth Partnership Grants require matching funds; program is intended 4/21 to support community driven opportunities or projects.  Status of various legislative efforts was reviewed.  Staff is monitoring potential federal funding cuts for HRA may happen although there should be none for CDA. Upcoming meeting: Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 2024 @ 11:00 a.m., Otter Tail Lake Room, Government Services Center with HRA Board meeting @ 12:45 p.m. Adjourned 5/21 PctReportCode1 8:38:35AM Achristoph 01/2025 03/2025Cash 25% 03/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2024 Integrated Financial Systems 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 705 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 000 ... 23-705-000-0000-6140 9,480.00 2112,000 2,520.00Per Diem 1,170.00 COM 2/11/2025 90.00 306831 1/13/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/11/2025 90.00 306832 1/13/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/11/2025 90.00 306836 1/21/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/11/2025 90.00 306836 1/8/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/11/2025 90.00 306833 1/8/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/11/2025 90.00 192410 1/8/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/11/2025 90.00 192410 1/21/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/11/2025 90.00 306832 1/21/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/11/2025 90.00 306833 1/21/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/25/2025 90.00 306870 2/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/25/2025 90.00 306871 2/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/25/2025 90.00 192633 2/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/25/2025 90.00 192635 2/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/25/2025 90.00 306873 2/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 2/25/2025 90.00 306872 2/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM MVC 3/19/2025 90.00 188191 6/11/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 188191 MVC 3/19/2025 90.00 188191 6/18/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 188191 MVC 3/19/2025 90.00 187028 3/11/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 187028 MVC 3/19/2025 90.00 187028 4/16/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 187028 MVC 3/19/2025 90.00 187028 4/8/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 187028 MVC 3/19/2025 90.00 187488 5/13/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 187488 MVC 3/19/2025 90.00 187488 5/20/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 187488 AUD 3/21/2025 90.00 306934 5/20/24 CDA- PER DIEM AUD 3/21/2025 90.00 306934 4/8/24 CDA- PER DIEM AUD 3/21/2025 90.00 306934 6/11/24 CDA- PER DIEM AUD 3/21/2025 90.00 306934 6/18/24 CDA- PER DIEM AUD 3/21/2025 90.00 306934 3/11/24 CDA- PER DIEM AUD 3/21/2025 90.00 306934 5/13/24 CDA- PER DIEM AUD 3/21/2025 90.00 306934 4/16/24 CDA- PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306938 3/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306940 2/10/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 193137 3/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306938 2/20/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306936 2/26/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306939 3/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM Page 2 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 03/2025 - - - - - - - 4/3/2025 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 6/21 EAt R-023674-000-14 PctReportCode1 8:38:35AM Achristoph 01/2025 03/2025Cash 25% 03/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2024 Integrated Financial Systems COM 3/25/2025 90.00 193135 3/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306937 2/10/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306940 3/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306936 2/10/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 193135 2/20/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306940 2/26/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/25/2025 90.00 306937 2/26/25 CDA - PER DIEM 23-705-000-0000-6240 9,000.00 09,000 0.00Publishing & Advertising 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6241 3,285.00 345,000 1,715.00Membership Dues 0.00 COM 1/14/2025 565.00 191873 2025-13109 2025 MEMBERSHIP DUES COM 2/11/2025 500.00 192364 12868-25 2025 MAPCED DUES COM 2/11/2025 125.00 192364 12654-25 2025 MAPCED DUES COM 2/25/2025 525.00 192579 12258 2025 DUES 23-705-000-0000-6242 1,130.00 442,000 870.00Registration Fees 0.00 COM 1/28/2025 395.00 192054 788 ACCT 13109 2025 CONFERENCE COM 2/11/2025 475.00 192316 2/11/25 2025 MN PUBLIC FINANCE SEMINAR 23-705-000-0000-6266 2,500.00 02,500 0.00Audit Cost 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6290 349,000.00 0350,000 1,000.00Contracted Services.0.00 COM 1/28/2025 1,000.00 192178 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT NOV 2024 23-705-000-0000-6330 2,022.80 333,000 977.20Mileage249.20 COM 2/11/2025 26.60 306832 1/13/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/11/2025 56.00 192410 1/21/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/11/2025 56.00 306836 1/21/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/11/2025 56.00 306836 1/8/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/11/2025 28.00 306833 1/21/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/11/2025 26.60 306832 1/21/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/25/2025 28.00 306871 2/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/25/2025 56.00 192633 2/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/25/2025 56.00 306873 2/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/25/2025 53.20 192635 2/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 2/25/2025 259.00 192634 2/7/25 MILEAGE - FINANCE SEMINAR COM 2/25/2025 26.60 306870 2/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE MVC 3/19/2025 25.46 187488 5/20/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 187488 MVC 3/19/2025 25.46 188191 6/18/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 188191 MVC 3/19/2025 25.46 187028 4/16/24 VOID WARRANT NUMBER 187028 AUD 3/21/2025 25.46 306934 6/18/24 CDA- MILEAGE AUD 3/21/2025 25.46 306934 5/20/24 CDA- MILEAGE AUD 3/21/2025 25.46 306934 4/16/24 CDA- MILEAGE COM 3/25/2025 28.00 306938 3/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE Page 3 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 03/2025 - - - 4/3/2025 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 7/21 EAt R-023674-000-16 PctReportCode1 8:38:35AM Achristoph 01/2025 03/2025Cash 25% 03/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2024 Integrated Financial Systems COM 3/25/2025 56.00 193135 2/20/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/25/2025 53.20 193137 3/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/25/2025 56.00 193135 3/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/25/2025 56.00 306940 3/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE 23-705-000-0000-6331 5,813.47 177,000 1,186.53Travel Expenses 0.00 AUD 1/24/2025 312.68 192005 1/24/25 AB - LODGING/MEAL AUD 2/21/2025 342.78 192481 2/21/25 AB - LODGING COM 2/25/2025 71.75 192541 2/5/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 2/5/25 COM 2/25/2025 459.32 192634 2/7/25 LODGING - FINANCE SEMINAR 23-705-000-0000-6355 127.00 1043,000 3,127.00Liability Insurance 0.00 COM 1/28/2025 3,127.00 192102 20476R ACCT 7639 PC RENEWAL 23-705-000-0000-6369 204,000.00 00204,000.00Miscellaneous Charges 0.00 J/E 1/11/2025 204,000.00WIRE TRANSFER BONGARDS 23-705-000-0000-6822 200,000.00 0200,000 0.00Community Growth Partnership Grant 0.00 23-705-000-7001-6828 8,496.74 8350,000 41,503.26Site Development (TIF)696.00 COM 1/14/2025 520.00 191854 1/3/25 FINAL PLAT OF PINEWOOD ESTATES COM 1/14/2025 367.00 191887 4358 24-10428 PINEWOOD ESTATES COM 2/11/2025 1,677.47 192307 22331 ACCT 1156 CONTAMINATED HAULING COM 2/11/2025 23,275.00 192315 36745 HAUL CONTAMINATED FILL COM 2/11/2025 5,580.39 192307 22256 ACCT 1156 CONTAMINATED HAULING AUD 2/21/2025 56.00 192480 2/21/25 RECORDING FEE - PINEWOOD EST COM 2/25/2025 9,331.40 192525 B417550 PINEWOOD ESTATES - SERVICES COM 3/11/2025 696.00 192836 5181 24-10428 PINEWOOD ESTATES 23-705-000-7001-6829 1,200,000.00 01,200,000 0.00Impact Fund Expenses 0.00 706 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 000 ... 23-706-000-0000-6240 1,000.00 01,000 0.00Publishing & Advertising 0.00 23-706-000-0000-6290 19,000.00 520,000 1,000.00Contracted Services 1,000.00 COM 3/11/2025 1,000.00 192915 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT JAN 2025 23-706-000-0000-6822 100,000.00 0100,000 0.00Community Growth Partnership Grant 0.00 807 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 23-706-807-0000-6825 18,750.00 2224,000 5,250.00Down Payment Assistance 0.00 AUD 1/24/2025 5,250.00 192003 BB-2025-01 DOWN PAYMENT ASSIST - KILLIAN 23-706-807-0000-6830 40,000.00 040,000 0.00Housing Rehabilitation 0.00 23-706-807-0000-6832 494,954.00 00494,954.00Loan Assistance Program 0.00 ...142,115.20 256,898.991,843,500.00 1,586,601.01 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 142,115.20 256,898.991,843,500.00 1,586,601.01 ...11,000.00 1,000.00121,000.00 120,000.00 Page 4 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 03/2025 - - PROGRAM DEPT PROGRAM - 4/3/2025 000 705 000 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 8/21 EAt BB:ARUC2024-01 PctReportCode1 8:38:35AM Achristoph 01/2025 03/2025Cash 25% 03/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2024 Integrated Financial Systems AUD 1/24/2025 494,954.00 192000 LOAN FOR THE LINCOLN PROJECT SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 782500,204.0064,000.00 436,204.00 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 2711,000.00 501,204.00185,000.00 316,204.00 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 373,115.20 758,102.992,028,500.00 1,270,397.01 373,115.20 758,102.992,028,500.00 1,270,397.01 Page 5 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 03/2025 PROGRAM - DEPT - FUND Final Totals 19 Accounts 4/3/2025 807 706 23 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 9/21 EAt StatusAccount Number 4:22:11PM04/21/2025 23 Fund 705 Dept Economic Development/Tourism Copyright 2010-2024 Integrated Financial Systems REVENUES & EXPENDITURES BUDGET REPORT --- Revenues --- Settlements23-705-000-0000-5001 4,622.38 1644,287.00.00 Interest23-705-000-0000-5710 981.06 333,000.00302.54 Miscellaneous Revenue23-705-000-0000-5830 147,861.62 121,200,000.00.00 Sale of Assets23-705-000-0000-5920 17,162.30 00.0017,162.30 --- Expenditures --- Per Diem23-705-000-0000-6140 2,520.00 2112,000.001,170.00 Publishing & Advertising23-705-000-0000-6240 0.00 09,000.00.00 Membership Dues23-705-000-0000-6241 1,715.00 345,000.00.00 Registration Fees23-705-000-0000-6242 870.00 442,000.00.00 Audit Cost23-705-000-0000-6266 0.00 02,500.00.00 Contracted Services.23-705-000-0000-6290 1,000.00 0350,000.00.00 Mileage23-705-000-0000-6330 977.20 333,000.00249.20 Travel Expenses23-705-000-0000-6331 1,186.53 177,000.00.00 Liability Insurance23-705-000-0000-6355 3,127.00 1043,000.00.00 Miscellaneous Charges23-705-000-0000-6369 204,000.00 00.00.00 Community Growth Partnership Grant23-705-000-0000-6822 0.00 0200,000.00.00 Site Development (TIF)23-705-000-7001-6828 41,503.26 8350,000.00696.00 Impact Fund Expenses23-705-000-7001-6829 0.00 01,200,000.00.00 5001-5049 TAXES .00 4,622.38 644,287.00 1 5700-5749 INVESTMENT EARNINGS 302.54 981.06 3,000.00 33 5800-5899 MISCELLANEOUS REVENUE .00 147,861.62 1,200,000.00 12 5900-5999 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES, SPECIAL ETC.17,162.30 17,162.30 .00 0 15,349.64 2,115.20 86,271.63 256,898.99 170,627.36 3,787.00 1,843,500.00 1,847,287.00 -2278 14 9705 Dept 17,464.84 Otter Tail County Auditor Page 2 From: 01/2025 Thru: 03/2025Report Basis: Cash Percent of Year: 25% Community Development Authority Selected Months 03/2025 Amount 2025 Budget % Of Budget Description -- TOTALS -- --- TOTALS --- -- TOTALS -- -- TOTALS -- Net Expend. RevenueTOTALS Economic Development/Tourism - - -- - Achristoph 10/21 StatusAccount Number 4:22:11PM04/21/2025 23 Fund 706 Dept Non Special Benefit Levy Programming Copyright 2010-2024 Integrated Financial Systems REVENUES & EXPENDITURES BUDGET REPORT --- Revenues --- Miscellaneous Revenue23-706-000-0000-5830 225,000.00 113200,000.00.00 --- Expenditures --- Publishing & Advertising23-706-000-0000-6240 0.00 01,000.00.00 Contracted Services23-706-000-0000-6290 1,000.00 520,000.001,000.00 Community Growth Partnership Grant23-706-000-0000-6822 0.00 0100,000.00.00 Down Payment Assistance23-706-807-0000-6825 5,250.00 2224,000.00.00 Housing Rehabilitation23-706-807-0000-6830 0.00 040,000.00.00 Loan Assistance Program23-706-807-0000-6832 494,954.00 00.00.00 5800-5899 MISCELLANEOUS REVENUE .00 225,000.00 200,000.00 113 1,000.00 1,000.00 276,204.00 501,204.00 225,000.00 15,000.00 185,000.00 200,000.00 -1841 271 113706 Dept .00 14,349.64 3,115.20 17,464.84 362,475.63 758,102.99 395,627.36 18,787.00 2,028,500.00 2,047,287.00 -1929 37 19 17,464.84 3,115.20 14,349.64 395,627.36 758,102.99 2,047,287.00 2,028,500.00 18,787.00 37 -1929 19 362,475.63 Otter Tail County Auditor Page 3 From: 01/2025 Thru: 03/2025Report Basis: Cash Percent of Year: 25% Community Development Authority Selected Months 03/2025 Amount 2025 Budget % Of Budget Description -- TOTALS -- Net Expend. RevenueTOTALS Non Special Benefit Levy Programming -- - TOTALS Community Development Authority23 Fund Expend. Net - - -- - FINAL TOTALS: 24 Accounts Revenue Expend. Net - - -- - Achristoph Revenue 11/21 DATE: April 30, 2025 TO: CDA Board of Directors FROM: Amy Baldwin, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Director Status Report Housing Growth Initiative / The Big Build: Housing Summit is scheduled for Wednesday, May 14 at Thumper Pond Resort and 110 people are registered as of May 1. Workforce Support Strategy / OTC Works: The Empowered Worker Program has received 85 referrals as of April 15. 30 participants are actively engaged. In March, the program had its first CNA and EMT certification completions. Our Drive for 5 Grant timeline was adjusted to June 2026 giving us an additional year to use the funding for the Empowered Worker Program. (see attached monthly report). As follow up to board discussion at the April meeting, the following are two reports from the Center for Rural Policy and Development: o Our roles in keeping and attracting residents (talks about the different components of population change, who’s migrating to rural and why) o Population declines while households increase (household increases illustrate need for housing) Attached is the OnTheMap Census report showing inflow and outflow job counts for the County. Also, information about the next data release of labor force projections was not able to be located; the last release was in 2017 and projected through 2030. Business Development: Quarterly business development newsletter was distributed to more than 1,200 recipients with highlights on National Small Business Week, AI Conference hosted by the West Central MN SBDC, Paid Leave employer engagement sessions, and RMCEP’s upcoming Job Fest and Resource Fair: members.ottertaillakescountry.com/ap/EmailViewer/r47DwqAL Otter Tail County was recently designated as a HUBZone by the SBA. The MN District Office of the SBA is hosting an event on May 22 at M State in Fergus Falls to share information about federal contracting opportunities for small businesses and how HUBZone certifications can make businesses more competitive. The event target audience is businesses in the construction, trades, engineering, manufacturing, and IT industries. Child Care: Contracts have been signed with two Child Care Project Managers (one renewal and one new contractor); the contracts are supported with funding from West Central Initiative. 12/21 > > > > > > 218-998-8060 ® COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER LIVE YOUR best life HERE. Government Services Center 520 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov Page 2 Miscellaneous: Staff members presented the Community Development and Housing Annual report at the Perham Chamber Power Hour. Staff attended the Henning EDA meeting and reviewed housing resources. Communication Metrics Recipients Open Rate Clicks Click Through Rate Business development newsletter (4/24) 1,233 37.32% 88 3.88% Housing summit invite (4/14) 597 38.87% 118 8.39% Attachments: Empowered Worker Program Report OnTheMap Census Report 13/21 > > > CDA Workforce Committee Update Empowered Worker Program Report Date: April 15, 2025 85 referrals received to date Participants Seeking Employment Only: 24 Participants Seeking Training and Employment: 61 Active Participants on case load: 30 Drive for Five: 18 Navigating the Road Ahead: 12 Pending Intake: 6 Summary: The Empowered Worker Program has received a total of 85 referrals since the inception of the program in July 2024. Of those, 30 are currently engaged in the program, with the majority seeking a credential. An overarching barrier for this population has been mental health. Those requesting mental health services are on various wait lists and rarely get their mental health concerns addressed during this process. This program continues to seek additional resources to help participants requesting mental health resources, specifically more readily available resources. The following success stories demonstrate the effectiveness that this program has. The workforce navigator is often told by participants that there is no other program like the Empowered Worker Program, and they are grateful for its existence. Success Story 1: Julian was referred to the program from Economic Assistance and resides at a Local recovery home. He approached the program because he’s interested in pursuing a certification as an EMT and becoming a firefighter. His long-term goal is to join the National Guard, as he has a strong desire to serve. He hit the ground running right away. A new EMT certification training was just starting the same week that I met him, and he chose to get to work right away. He started the EMT training in January and graduated with his certification in March. He’s currently scheduled to take the national EMT certification and has secured a job with Ringdahl. He’s also considering a paramedic certification. Ringdahl has put Julian in contact with the local fire department and is now pursuing training to be a firefighter. Julian is ecstatic about fulfilling his goals and meeting his dreams. I was visiting with him the other day in person outside of his home, and a Ringdahl Ambulance drove by. He called it out and his eyes lit up with excitement and said “I’m going to be working there!” Julian has received incentive gift cards for his progress, a laptop for his EMT studies, a cell phone, a calling card, and school supplies for his EMT class. He is always grateful for receipt of supportive services and gives credit to the empowered worker program for his success. External Human Services Minnesota Department ofCorrection Probation Total 2 63 7 13 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 Total Referral Count by Division 14/21 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 ■Total Behavioral Health 32 I ■ Child & Family Child Support 11 4 ■ Total Referral Count by Department ■ I I - Disability Income Lake Region DOC Maintenance Recovery Home 5 7 8 1 -■ --I -LTC Unit MState/WDS Probation PSOP 1 1 1 13 1 2 Success Story 2: Josh was referred to the empowered worker program by DWI court in November. He was on MA, food assistance, and lived at a friend’s house. His biggest barriers were his criminal record and not having a driver’s license. Josh was committed to his sobriety, wanting to find work, and wanting to explore a career path to earn his Licensed Addiction & Dependency Counselor (LADC) credential. He applied and was accepted at M State for classes that will take him on the path toward earning a LADC. He will earn an associate of applied liberal science with an emphasis on social work by June 2026. He has been committed to his schoolwork and will continue fulltime through the summer. He will then take the next step toward the path of earning his LADC. Josh has overcome obstacles during this time, has gotten his driver’s license back. Josh has received supportive services such as a laptop for his schooling, school supplies, incentive, gift cards, and car repair. Success Story 3: Rita was referred by the children and family unit in September. She is a single mom of 6 kids. She hadn’t worked since she was 16 years old, but now as a single mom with school age children, she needed to find income. She had interest in both the childcare and healthcare industry. After connecting her to mentors in both industries, she decided to explore healthcare. I connected her to Perham health to job shadow in Radiology, general nursing, laboratory, EMS, and medical surgical. She had court obligations arise throughout these job shadow events, which the employer was willing to work around. Once complete, Rita decided that she wanted to go for her RN degree. We got her registered for the first available CNA class. She also applied and was accepted at M State to begin credit coursework toward her RN Degree simultaneously her CNA courses. Rita received her certification as a nursing assistant on March 13. She continues her studies at M state toward earning an RN Degree and is seeking a role as a CNA. She has received support services such as scrubs for her job shadows, gas cards, incentive gift cards, and a laptop for her studies. Credentials of Participant Consideration: Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Boiler Operator License Certified Nursing Assistant Registered Nurse IT Cybersecurity Licensed Addiction & Dependency Counselor (LADC) Certified Peer Specialist Manicurist Construction Management Diesel Mechanic Machine Tool Technology Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) 15/21 OnTheMap Inflow/Outflow Analysis Worker Flows In, Out, and Within Otter Tail County, MN Created by the U.S. Census Bureau’s OnTheMap https://onthemap.ces.census.gov on 03/24/2025 Inflow/Outflow Counts of All Jobs for Selection Area in 2022 All Workers Map Legend Selection Areas Selection Area Inflow/Outflow Employed and Live in Selection Area Employed in Selection Area, Live Outside Live in Selection Area, Employed OutsideNote: Overlay arrows do not indicate directionality of worker flow between home and employment locations. Page 1 of 3 16/21 ~ I lOmi L 00 ~ Il@ln@ r7 ~ Inflow/Outflow Counts of All Jobs for Selection Area in 2022 All Workers Worker Flows 6,702 -Employed in Selection Area, Live Outside 10,849 -Live in Selection Area, Employed Outside 16,104 -Employed and Live in Selection Area Inflow/Outflow Counts of All Jobs for Selection Area in 2022 All Workers 2022 Worker Totals and Flows Count Share Employed in the Selection Area 22,806 100.0% Employed in the Selection Area but Living Outside 6,702 29.4% Employed and Living in the Selection Area 16,104 70.6% Living in the Selection Area 26,953 100.0% Living in the Selection Area but Employed Outside 10,849 40.3% Living and Employed in the Selection Area 16,104 59.7% Page 2 of 3 17/21 ■ ■ ■ Additional Information Analysis Settings Analysis Type Inflow/Outflow Selection area as N/A Year(s)2022 Job Type All Jobs Selection Area Otter Tail County, MN from Counties Selected Census Blocks 4,716 Analysis Generation Date 03/24/2025 16:58 - OnTheMap 6.25.1 Code Revision d7e653d6dda5dbfeaebf0121d6547c7bdf6e3686 LODES Data Vintage 20241022_1605 Data Sources Source: U.S. Census Bureau, OnTheMap Application and LEHD Origin-Destination Employment Statistics (Beginning of Quarter Employment, 2nd Quarter of 2002-2022). Notes 1. Race, Ethnicity, Educational Attainment, and Sex statistics are beta release results and are not available before 2009. 2. Educational Attainment is only produced for workers aged 30 and over. 3. Firm Age and Firm Size statistics are beta release results for All Private jobs and are not available before 2011. Page 3 of 3 18/21 Housing Growth & Development Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: April 14 @ 1:00pm Committee members: Dena Johnson (virtual), Jeff Ackerson, Dave Schornack Outline of key actions discussed: 1. Pinewood Estates Update a. Excavation on 2 of the basements has begun. Concrete work will start late this week or early next week. b. Meeting with Realtor tomorrow to get homes listed as soon as possible. c. Reminder that there is a 7-year deed restriction on homes built with Value Gap Funds. 2. Housing Summit, May 14 at Thumper Pond a. Approximately 90 registrants to date. b. Ben Winchester will be keynote speaker with message on “Return on Investment”. c. Sessions will be a deeper case studies with resources. d. Recording will be available after event. 3. MAHUBE OTWA a. Purchased just over 70 acres in Newton Township just outside of New York Mills to build tiny homes for homeless veterans. 4. MN Housing Applications a. Infrastructure Application is now open. Pelican Rapids and Battle Lake were approved for matching funds to be used with the state application. b. Tier II Cities, applications due April 24 th. New York Mills, Battle Lake and Pelican Rapids are expected to apply. c. Housing Trust Fund Match – HRA submitted application for cash match of up to $225,000. Awards are expected to be announced in June or July. d. Impact Fund Application due in July for single family development. Application needs to be community specific but can include more than one community. There was discussion on whether the future applications should be submitted by the CDA or HRA. Future application sites being considered: Parkers Prairie, Ottertail and Vergas. 5. Down Payment Assistance a. Amend language in policy so that borrowers may refinance their mortgage for a lower interest rate with no cash back. Refinance with cash back would trigger repayment. 6. Joint work session with HRA Board a. Both meeting agendas in May are fairly light. b. Topics would include goals, future development, CDA-HRA relationship. Next meeting: Monday, May 12 @ 1pm 19/21 218-998-8060 @ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER LIVE YOUR best life HERE. Government Services Center 520 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov Workforce Support & Digital Equity Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: April 15 @ 3pm Committee members: Kurt Mortenson (in person), Bob Schempp (virtual), Betsy Roder (virtual) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. Empowered Worker Program update a. Received 85 referrals as of April 15 with 30 actively engaged. A review of a few program success stories was provided. b. Application submitted to West Central Initiative Grant for supportive services funding for participants not eligible for Drive for 5 funding. c. Initial work for Bush Foundation grant application is underway. 2.Child Care Project Manager RFP responses and work plans a. Request for Proposals was issued with revised priority work areas for child care project managers b. Two responses to the RFP received; staff is recommending proceeding with a contract with each c. Committee provided direction to present two contracts to the County Board for approval 3.Discussion of M State partnership and fall Workforce Summit a. M State is available to be the location host and partner on a fall workforce summit b. Discussed content ideas for the event and event structure Next meeting: Tuesday, May 20 @ 3pm 20/21 218-998-8060 @ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER LIVE YOUR best life HERE. Government Services Center 520 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov Business Development Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: April 17 @ 1pm Committee members: Sean Sullivan (in person), Heidi Samuelson (virtual), Val Martin (virtual) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. SBA HUBZone event on May 22 a. MN District Office of the SBA is hosting an event to share information about HUBZone certifications and federal contracting opportunities for small businesses b. Committee recommended sharing with cities and determining the target businesses/industries that should attend the event 2. Discuss MN DEED Paid Leave Public Outreach Grant opportunity a. Grants funds for outreach, education, and technical assistance related to MN Public Leave Program for employers and employees b. Committee was supportive of pursuing an application in collaboration with Chamber partners c. Committee discussed in person and virtual office hours, training opportunities, and partnership with Chambers to share messaging with businesses 3. Westridge Mall project updates a. Purchase agreement extended until July 2025 b. Due diligence to understand easements/agreements in place is ongoing 4. Communication plan for National Small Business Week a. National Small Business Week is May 4-10 and staff is planning to do a proclamation for the Board of Commissioners, press release, newsletter and social media communications b. Committee was appreciative of the efforts planned Next meeting: May 15 @ 1pm 21/21 218-998-8060 ® COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER LIVE YOUR best life HERE. Government Services Center 520 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov