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Home My WebLink AboutCommunity Development Agency - CDA-Packet-01-07-2026 Supporting Documents - 01/07/2026 OTTER TAIL COUNTY – MINNESOTA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA Government Services Center, Otter Tail Lake Room 515 West Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN January 7, 2026 | 11:00 am Commissioners may participate in the meeting by interactive technology. 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Approval of Consent Agenda A. November 5, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes B. October / November 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. New York Mills Community Growth Partnership Grant Application 6. Discussion and Communications A. Other Communications B. Upcoming Meetings: a. Wednesday, February 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 1/33 2/33 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY Government Services Center, County Board Room 515 W Fir Ave, Fergus Falls MN 56537 November 5, 2025 1. Call to Order The Otter Tail County Community Development Agency convened at 11:01 am, Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Dave Schornack, CDA Board Chair led the meeting. Attendance was as follows: Present in person Present via Technology Absent Board Members: Jeff Ackerson X Dena Johnson X Val Martin X Kurt Mortenson X Betsy Roder X 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 Julie Bakken, HRA Accountant X Paula Grunewald, HRA Administrative Assistant X 2. Approval of Agenda The agenda was to stand as presented. 3. Approval of Consent Agenda Motion by Heidi Samuelson, second by Kurt Mortenson to approve the Consent Agenda. Motion passed unanimously. 4. Reports and Presentations A. Director’s Status Report:  The Housing Committee met at Pinewood Estates 3 weeks ago. Closings on two homes are scheduled for November. An open house will be held on Friday, November 7, 5-6:30 pm. The Lincoln in Battle Lake is near completion – an open house will be held in December.  Empowered Worker – CDA was awarded the Agriculture Grant for $96,000 - there were only 7 awards in Minnesota. The Workforce Summit is planned for December 11 and will be held at M State Fergus Falls, Legacy Hall. Speakers include Carrie Brimhall, President of MSCTC and Cameron Macht from Minnesota DEED. A Poverty Simulation will held later in the day.  PioneerCare Child Care Expansion – Habitat for Humanity will be the building partner. The project has been featured on MPR. 3/33 OTTERTAIL COUNTY -MINNESOTA  The County was been awarded $20,000 from West Central Initiative to continue work with Child Care Project Managers.  Attendance was good at the October manufacturing tours. B. Committee Reports were included in the meeting packet C. On the Map Report Sarah Schake, Project Manager, shared updates from placer.ai regarding overnight trips and responded to last month’s question on the health of resorts. Eric Osberg, Rural Rebound Initiative Coordinator stated that we are in partnership renewal mode at this time. D. Board Member Updates Dena Johnson stated that the Pelican Rapids road project is wrapping up. 5. Regular Business Items A. Community Growth Partnership Grant Application: Clitherall Township Application Commercial Rehabilitation. Amy Baldwin, CDA Director stated that this application is the first application submitted from a township. The project is for Vinta / Ice Cream and Candy and will be located on the corner of Hwys. 78 and 210 by the current owner of Lakes Vintage and The Warehouse. This component of the project will add an additional business concept to the current vendor market. The funds will be used on improving the exterior of the building as well as accessibility improvements. The requested grant amount is $8,000. Motion by Kurt Mortenson, second by Sean Sullivan to approve. Motion passed unanimously. 6. Discussion and Communications A. Tax Forfeit Property Review  Met with the County Recorder and obtained a list from pre-2016.  Four auctions have been completed in 2025; 60-70% of the parcels sell at auction.  Next auction is November 10.  Staff will continue to coordinate with Recorders Office staff on leveraging forfeiture opportunities. B. Review of CDA One Time Housing Appropriation Uses and Balance Amy Baldwin, CDA Director presented a snapshot of One Time Housing Appropriation Uses and Balance. The County Board authorized $2,000,000 in October 2022 for housing uses. C. December Board Meeting and 2026 Board Meeting Schedule The next scheduled board meeting is December 3rd and Amy Baldwin, CDA Director will be unable to attend. Commissioners asked her recommendation on holding a meeting and she stated a meeting may not be needed in December. Board Members present and online confirmed that the first Wednesday of each month worked to hold 2026 Board Meetings at 11 am. She would also like to hold a Joint Meeting in January between the HRA and CDA boards. D. Project Updates a. Pinewood Estates, Pelican Rapids – already discussed. E. Other Communications a. No additional information on the Westridge Mall 4/33 F. Upcoming Meetings a. December Board Meeting - will not held in December unless needed. Next meeting planned for Wednesday, January 7, 2026 @ 11:00 am, Otter Tail Lake Room, Government Services Center with HRA Board meeting @ 12:45 pm. b. Workforce Summit, December 11, M State Fergus Falls, Legacy Hall. 7. Adjourned 5/33 PctReportCode1 10:25:20AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 92% 11/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 705 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 000 ... 23-705-000-0000-6140 2,910.00 7612,000 9,090.00Per Diem 900.00 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 - 11/2025 - - - - - - - 12/4/2025 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 6/33 EAt PctReportCode1 10:25:20AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 92% 11/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 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 COM 4/22/2025 90.00 306950 4/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 4/22/2025 90.00 306952 4/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 4/22/2025 90.00 193650 4/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 4/22/2025 90.00 193652 3/10/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 4/22/2025 90.00 306953 4/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 4/22/2025 90.00 306951 4/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 4/22/2025 90.00 193650 3/24/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 4/22/2025 90.00 306952 3/10/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 4/22/2025 90.00 193652 4/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 194198 5/7/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 306961 5/7/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 306963 5/7/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 306964 5/7/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 194197 4/17/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 194198 4/15/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 306960 4/14/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 306963 4/15/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 306964 4/14/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 306959 4/14/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 194197 5/7/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 5/20/2025 90.00 306961 5/7/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/24/2025 90.00 307088 5/25/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/24/2025 90.00 194791 6/4/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/24/2025 90.00 307086 6/4/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/24/2025 90.00 307089 6/4/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/24/2025 90.00 307085 6/4/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/24/2025 90.00 307086 5/15/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/24/2025 90.00 194791 5/15/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/24/2025 90.00 194792 5/25/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 7/22/2025 90.00 307112 6/23/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 7/22/2025 90.00 195304 7/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 7/22/2025 90.00 307116 7/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM Page 3 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 11/2025 12/4/2025 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 7/33 EAt PctReportCode1 10:25:20AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 92% 11/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems COM 7/22/2025 90.00 307114 7/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 7/22/2025 90.00 307113 7/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 7/22/2025 90.00 307117 6/23/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 7/22/2025 90.00 195304 6/17/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 7/22/2025 90.00 307116 6/17/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 7/22/2025 90.00 307117 7/2/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 8/26/2025 90.00 307192 8/6/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 8/26/2025 90.00 307190 8/6/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 8/26/2025 90.00 307192 7/14/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 8/26/2025 90.00 307190 7/17/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 8/26/2025 90.00 307189 7/14/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 8/26/2025 90.00 307189 8/6/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 8/26/2025 90.00 195995 7/17/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 8/26/2025 90.00 195997 8/6/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 307204 8/18/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 307207 9/3/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 196490 8/21/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 196490 9/3/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 307201 8/18/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 307206 9/3/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 307204 9/3/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 307207 8/18/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 9/23/2025 90.00 307205 8/21/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 10/14/2025 90.00 307214 10/1/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 10/14/2025 90.00 307215 10/1/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 10/14/2025 90.00 307219 10/1/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 10/14/2025 90.00 307218 10/1/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 10/14/2025 90.00 196909 9/22/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 10/14/2025 90.00 307218 9/22/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 10/14/2025 90.00 196909 10/1/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 10/14/2025 90.00 196908 9/18/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 307345 10/21/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 197502 10/21/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 197500 11/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 307345 11/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 307343 10/16/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 307346 10/13/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 307342 10/13/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 197502 11/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM Page 4 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 11/2025 12/4/2025 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 8/33 EAt R-023674-000-14 PctReportCode1 10:25:20AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 92% 11/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems COM 11/18/2025 90.00 307342 11/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM COM 11/18/2025 90.00 307346 11/5/25 CDA - PER DIEM 23-705-000-0000-6240 9,000.00 09,000 0.00Publishing & Advertising 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6241 785.00 845,000 4,215.00Membership 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 COM 4/8/2025 2,500.00 193340 1453 2025 EDA MEMBERSHIP 23-705-000-0000-6242 1,080.00 462,000 920.00Registration 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 COM 7/8/2025 50.00 194942 6/6/25 2025 DISTRICT 4 SPRING MEETING 23-705-000-0000-6266 1,676.00 332,500 824.00Audit Cost 0.00 COM 6/10/2025 824.00 194475 72595 AUDIT SERVICES 7/17/24-4/22/25 23-705-000-0000-6290 200,523.54 43350,000 149,476.46Contracted Services.533.75 COM 1/28/2025 1,000.00 192178 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT NOV 2024 COM 4/8/2025 610.00 193324 100659 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CONSULT J/E 7/31/2025 147,332.716 MO CONTRACT SERVICES TO CDA COM 11/18/2025 533.75 197423 103433 TAX ABATEMENT CALCULATIONS 23-705-000-0000-6330 111.10 963,000 2,888.90Mileage197.40 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 Page 5 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 11/2025 - - - 12/4/2025 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 9/33 EAt PctReportCode1 10:25:20AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 92% 11/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems COM 3/25/2025 28.00 306938 3/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/25/2025 56.00 193135 2/20/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/25/2025 56.00 306940 3/5/25 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 4/8/2025 93.10 193297 3/13/25 MILEAGE - MEETINGS COM 4/22/2025 56.00 193650 4/2/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 4/22/2025 26.60 306950 4/2/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 4/22/2025 56.00 306953 4/2/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 4/22/2025 53.20 193652 4/2/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 4/22/2025 53.20 193652 3/10/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 4/22/2025 56.00 193650 3/24/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 5/20/2025 53.20 194198 5/7/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 5/20/2025 56.00 194197 5/7/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 5/20/2025 56.00 306964 4/14/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 5/20/2025 28.00 306961 5/7/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 5/20/2025 56.00 306964 4/14/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/24/2025 56.00 307089 6/4/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/24/2025 26.60 307085 6/4/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/24/2025 28.00 307086 6/4/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/24/2025 56.00 194791 6/4/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 7/22/2025 26.60 307113 7/2/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 7/22/2025 28.00 307114 7/2/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 7/22/2025 56.00 307117 6/23/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 7/22/2025 53.20 195304 7/2/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 7/22/2025 56.00 307117 7/2/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 8/26/2025 28.00 307190 8/6/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 8/26/2025 56.00 307192 8/6/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 8/26/2025 53.20 195997 8/6/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 8/26/2025 56.00 195995 7/17/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 8/26/2025 26.60 307189 8/6/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 8/26/2025 56.00 307192 7/14/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 8/26/2025 26.60 307189 7/14/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 9/23/2025 56.00 196490 9/3/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 9/23/2025 26.60 307204 8/18/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 9/23/2025 56.00 307207 9/3/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 9/23/2025 26.60 307204 9/3/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 10/14/2025 28.00 307215 10/1/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 10/14/2025 26.60 307214 10/1/25 CDA - MILEAGE Page 6 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 11/2025 12/4/2025 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 10/33 EAt PctReportCode1 10:25:20AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 92% 11/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems COM 10/14/2025 56.00 307219 10/1/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 10/14/2025 53.20 196909 10/1/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 10/14/2025 53.20 196909 9/22/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 11/18/2025 58.80 307346 10/13/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 11/18/2025 56.00 197500 11/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 11/18/2025 56.00 307346 11/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE COM 11/18/2025 26.60 307342 11/5/25 CDA - MILEAGE 23-705-000-0000-6331 5,687.02 197,000 1,312.98Travel 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 MVC 4/11/2025 71.75 192541 2/5/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 2/5/2025 AUD 8/29/2025 167.43 196088 8/21/25 AB - LODGING EDAM EVENT COM 9/9/2025 30.77 196155 8/13/25 EV CHARGE - EDA CONVENING CONF 23-705-000-0000-6333 1,667.50 001,667.50Meeting/Event Costs 82.00 MVC 4/11/2025 71.75 192541 2/5/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 2/5/2025 COM 4/22/2025 68.25 193555 4/2/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 4/2/25 COM 6/10/2025 95.25 194406 5/7/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 5/7/25 COM 6/24/2025 71.75 194669 1/21/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MEETING COM 6/24/2025 905.50 194816 OTCSUMIT HOUSING SUMMIT EVENT 2025 COM 6/24/2025 71.75 194669 3/5/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MEETING COM 6/24/2025 82.00 194669 6/4/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MEETING COM 7/22/2025 82.00 195204 7/2/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 7/2/25 COM 7/29/2025 45.00 195404 1150 ACCT 13109 NETWORKING REG COM 9/23/2025 92.25 196378 9/3/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 9/3/25 COM 11/18/2025 82.00 197421 10/1/25 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 10/1/25 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 270,799.40 00270,799.40Miscellaneous Charges 0.00 J/E 1/11/2025 204,000.00WIRE TRANSFER BONGARDS COM 4/22/2025 15,377.40 193620 2025-02 SHARE OF EVS & CHARGERS J/E 4/29/2025 51,240.00APPLICATION ALLOCATION TO MMB COM 8/12/2025 182.00 195649 PCAUTO1112 ACCT 7639 AUTO AUDIT 23-705-000-0000-6822 190,000.00 5200,000 10,000.00Community Growth Partnership Grant 0.00 AUD 7/3/2025 10,000.00 307091 2025-02 CDA GRANT REIMBURSEMENT 23-705-000-7001-6828 5,856.74 8850,000 44,143.26Site Development (TIF)690.00 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 Page 7 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 11/2025 - - - - 12/4/2025 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 11/33 EAt 9/16 & 10/2 & 10/26 R-023674-000-16 R-023674-000-17 R-023674-000-18 PctReportCode1 10:25:20AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 92% 11/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems 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 COM 6/24/2025 230.00 194699 6/3/25 PINEWOOD MOWING COM 7/22/2025 460.00 195229 6/17 & 7/1 PINEWOOD MOWING JUN 2025 COM 9/9/2025 460.00 196186 7/7 & 7/29 PINEWOOD MOWING JUL 2025 COM 9/9/2025 340.00 196193 6408 24-10428 PINEWOOD ESTATES COM 9/30/2025 460.00 196645 8/12 & 9/1 PINEWOOD MOWING COM 11/18/2025 690.00 197443 PINEWOOD MOWING 23-705-000-7001-6829 70,157.15 1061,200,000 1,270,157.15Impact Fund Expenses 229,507.38 COM 4/8/2025 550.00 193353 3/26/25 APPRAISAL FOR PINEWOOD ESTATES COM 4/8/2025 425.00 193413 E0313 APPRAISAL FOR PINEWOOD ESTATES AUD 4/25/2025 139.99 193703 4/25/25 AB - CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS AUD 5/2/2025 199,378.62 193745 5/2/25 PINEWOOD ESTATES DRAW #1 AUD 6/13/2025 161,941.30 194570 6/13/25 PINEWOOD ESTATES DRAW #2 AUD 6/20/2025 11,826.00 194607 5/22/25 GAS LINE INSTALLS FOR PINEWOOD AUD 7/31/2025 232,717.62 195505 7/31/25 PINEWOOD ESTATES DRAW #3 COM 8/26/2025 399.00 196003 4041 PINEWOOD EST PROJECT SIGN COM 8/26/2025 26.98 195907 76000990906000 GAS LINE HOOK UP PINEWOOD COM 8/26/2025 26.98 195908 76000990907000 GAS LINE HOOK UP PINEWOOD COM 8/26/2025 26.98 195906 76000990905000 GAS LINE HOOK UP PINEWOOD COM 8/26/2025 500.00 196019 25-OTC-003I INSULATION INSPECTION PE LOT#2 AUD 9/12/2025 179,690.18 196295 9/12/25 PINEWOOD ESTATES DRAW #4 COM 9/23/2025 500.00 196508 25-OTC-002I INSULATION INSPECTION AUD 9/26/2025 43.32 196554 9/21/25 AB - OPEN HOUSE SUPPLIES AUD 10/3/2025 252,457.80 196718 10/3/25 PINEWOOD ESTATES DRAW #5 AUD 11/14/2025 229,507.38 197351 11/14/25 PINEWOOD ESTATES DRAW #6 706 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 15,600.00 17820,000 35,600.00Contracted Services 1,000.00 COM 3/11/2025 1,000.00 192915 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT JAN 2025 COM 4/8/2025 1,000.00 193438 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT FEB 2025 COM 6/10/2025 1,000.00 194551 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT MAR 2025 ...96231,910.53 1,768,621.651,843,500.00 74,878.35 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 96231,910.53 1,768,621.651,843,500.00 74,878.35 Page 8 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 11/2025 - PROGRAM DEPT - 12/4/2025 000 705 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 12/33 EAt R-023674-000-19 R-023674-000-20 R-023674-000-21 R-023674-000-22 R-023674-000-15 R-023674-000-23 R-023674-000-24 BB-DPA-2025-02 BB-DPA-2025-03 BB:ARUC2024-01 PctReportCode1 10:25:20AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 92% 11/2025War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems COM 6/24/2025 1,000.00 194841 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT MAY 2025 COM 7/8/2025 22,550.00 194979 130436 ACCT OTTCOU MALL ASSMNTS COM 7/8/2025 1,000.00 195082 GRANT PROGAM MGMT MAY 2025 COM 8/12/2025 1,000.00 195719 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT JUN 2025 COM 8/12/2025 305.00 195598 102117 WESTRIDGE MALL CONSULTING COM 9/9/2025 1,000.00 196272 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT JUL 2025 COM 9/9/2025 2,745.00 196163 102591 TAX ABATEMENT CALCULATIONS COM 9/9/2025 1,000.00 196272 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT DEC 2024 COM 9/23/2025 1,000.00 196535 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT AUG 2025 COM 11/18/2025 1,000.00 197532 GRANT PROGRAM MGMT SEP 2025 23-706-000-0000-6369 18.00 0018.00Miscellaneous Charges 0.00 AUD 4/25/2025 18.00 193703 4/25/25 AB - TRAIL GRANT SUBSCRIPTION 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 10,350.00 14324,000 34,350.00Down Payment Assistance 15,000.00 AUD 1/24/2025 5,250.00 192003 BB-2025-01 DOWN PAYMENT ASSIST - KILLIAN AUD 9/12/2025 14,100.00 196308 DOWN PYMT ASSIST - KURTZ AUD 11/26/2025 15,000.00 197664 DOWN PYMT ASSIST - NIEMELA 23-706-807-0000-6830 25,665.20 3640,000 14,334.80Housing Rehabilitation 14,239.80 COM 9/23/2025 95.00 196450 112534 O & E REPORT PAINE'S ADDITION COM 11/4/2025 14,239.80 197258 555 RORL2025-01 JOHNSON 23-706-807-0000-6832 595,003.00 00595,003.00Loan Assistance Program 99,954.00 AUD 1/24/2025 494,954.00 192000 LOAN FOR THE LINCOLN PROJECT COM 9/30/2025 95.00 196671 112596 O & E REPORT GROW PERHAM LOAN AUD 11/21/2025 99,954.00 197548 ARUC2025-01 LOAN DISBURSEMENT ...291,000.00 35,618.00121,000.00 85,382.00 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 1006129,193.80 643,687.8064,000.00 579,687.80 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 367130,193.80 679,305.80185,000.00 494,305.80 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 121362,104.33 2,447,927.452,028,500.00 419,427.45 121362,104.33 2,447,927.452,028,500.00 419,427.45 Page 9 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference01/2025 - 11/2025 - PROGRAM - - PROGRAM - DEPT - FUND - Final Totals 21 Accounts - 12/4/2025 000 807 706 23 Actual ForType2025 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE Otter Tail County Auditor 13/33 EAt Pct 21 Accounts 10:17:49AM Achristoph 01/2025 11/2025Cash 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 11/2025 Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 705 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 000 ... 6140 PER DIEM 2,910.00 76900.00 9,090.00 6240 PUBLISHING & ADVERTISING 9,000.00 00.00 0.00 6241 MEMBERSHIP DUES 785.00 840.00 4,215.00 6242 REGISTRATION FEES 1,080.00 460.00 920.00 6266 AUDIT COST 1,676.00 330.00 824.00 6290 CONTRACTED SERVICES.200,523.54 43533.75 149,476.46 6330 MILEAGE 111.10 96197.40 2,888.90 6331 TRAVEL EXPENSES 5,687.02 190.00 1,312.98 6333 MEETING/EVENT COSTS 1,667.50 082.00 1,667.50 6355 LIABILITY INSURANCE 127.00 1040.00 3,127.00 6369 MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES 270,799.40 00.00 270,799.40 6822 COMMUNITY GROWTH PARTNERSHIP GRANT 190,000.00 50.00 10,000.00 6828 SITE DEVELOPMENT (TIF)5,856.74 88690.00 44,143.26 6829 IMPACT FUND EXPENSES 70,157.15 106229,507.38 1,270,157.15 706 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 000 ... 6240 PUBLISHING & ADVERTISING 1,000.00 00.00 0.00 6290 CONTRACTED SERVICES 15,600.00 1781,000.00 35,600.00 6369 MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES 18.00 00.00 18.00 6822 COMMUNITY GROWTH PARTNERSHIP GRANT 100,000.00 00.00 0.00 807 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 6825 DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE 10,350.00 14315,000.00 34,350.00 6830 HOUSING REHABILITATION 25,665.20 3614,239.80 14,334.80 6832 LOAN ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 595,003.00 099,954.00 595,003.00 ...1,768,621.65 96231,910.53 74,878.35 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 1,768,621.65 96231,910.53 74,878.351,843,500.00 ...35,618.00 291,000.00 85,382.00 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 643,687.80 1006129,193.80 579,687.80 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 679,305.80 367130,193.80 494,305.80185,000.00 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 2,028,500.00 2,447,927.45 121362,104.33 419,427.45 121 362,104.33 2,447,927.45 2,028,500.00 -419,427.45 Page 2 Report For: ToReport Basis: FUND Percent of Year: Actual For Account Description Actual For BDGT - ACT Difference01/2025 - 11/2025 - - - - TOTAL TOTAL - - TOTAL - - TOTAL - TOTAL - TOTAL - Final Totals - 12/4/2025 92 EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE - YTD SUMMARY 12,000.00 9,000.00 5,000.00 2,000.00 2,500.00 350,000.00 3,000.00 7,000.00 0.00 3,000.00 0.00 200,000.00 50,000.00 1,200,000.00 1,000.00 20,000.00 0.00 100,000.00 24,000.00 40,000.00 0.00 1,843,500.00 121,000.00 64,000.00 2025 BUDGET Otter Tail County Auditor 14/33 DATE: December 30, 2025 TO: CDA Board of Directors FROM: Amy Baldwin, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Director Status Report Housing Growth Initiative / The Big Build: Processed 265 payments to Tax Rebate Program participants totaling $274,811. An open house is being planned at The Lincoln Apartments in Battle Lake in January. Workforce Support Strategy / OTC Works: The Empowered Worker Program has paused referrals until mid-January. The County received notification that we were not awarded a second round Drive for 5 Grant. We are on track to spend down the remainder of Drive for 5 round one funding with existing participants. (see attached monthly report). The Empowered Worker Program was selected as the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Economic Development Award by the Minnesota Association of Professional County Economic Developers (MAPCED). (press release attached) More than 70 workforce partners attended the Workforce Summit and 44 attended the Poverty Simulation on December 11. The summit was livestreamed and available on the County’s YouTube page. (press release attached) Quarterly workforce newsletter was distributed to 264 recipients with highlights on the Workforce Summit recording, Empowered Worker participant testimonial video, United Way supportive services for employers, and MAPCED Economic Development Award: https://members.ottertaillakescountry.com/ap/EmailViewer/p8RbBOdL Child Care: First Children’s Finance published the 2025 Child Care Needs Analysis showing a 4% decrease in child care capacity, 2% decrease in number of children under 5, and overall child care need of 1,129 spots. (see attached chart and map) Business Development: Quarterly business development newsletter was distributed to more than 1,220 recipients with highlights on the Workforce Summit, Manufacturing Month tours, Paid Leave resources, succession planning resources: https://members.ottertaillakescountry.com/ap/EmailViewer/rkv92dXL Miscellaneous: Quarterly community development newsletter was distributed to 539 recipients with highlights on the Workforce Summit, CEDA Grant for small communities, Small Business 15/33 > > > > > > > > > 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 Saturday, and Fergus Falls child care expansion project led by PioneerCare: https://members.ottertaillakescountry.com/ap/EmailViewer/rA26qKvp Communication Metrics: Attachments: • Press Release o Workforce Summit o AMC Empowered Worker Award • Child Care Needs Analysis: Chart and Map Recipients Open Rate Clicks Click Through Rate Child care provider newsletter (7/30) 123 63.41% 12 8.13% Community development newsletter (8/7) 541 52.93% 171 6.24% Child care provider newsletter (8/29) 92 53.26% 62 15.22% Workforce newsletter (9/18) 231 60.89% 143 16.89% Child care provider newsletter (9/30) 141 64.03% 60 20.14% Business development newsletter (10/6) 1,221 52.93% 327 10.97% Child care provider newsletter (10/31) 152 57.62% 34 12.58% Community development newsletter (11/25) 539 47.35% 108 6.06% Child care provider newsletter (11/26) 153 55.92% 37 13.82% Workforce Summit invite (12/4) 701 35.86% 132 5.83% Workforce newsletter (12/23) 264 43.94% 73 9.09% 16/33 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Otter Tail County Workforce Summit Activates Partners December 17, 2025 – Otter Tail County, MN – Otter Tail County convened nearly 100 employers, educators, service providers, and community leaders for a countywide Workforce Summit and Poverty Simulation on Thursday, December 11, at Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State). The events provided an opportunity to have honest conversations about today’s workforce realities and showcased practical, local solutions to strengthen Otter Tail County’s workforce. The Workforce Summit featured panel discussions and presentations that focused on the lived experiences of working families, including housing and food insecurity, child care challenges, transportation barriers, and skills gaps that can interfere with stable employment. Speakers represented employers, workforce development partners, nonprofit organizations, and the Otter Tail County Community Development Agency (CDA), alongside guest presenters from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and M State. Sessions emphasized moving beyond awareness to action. They highlighted employer partnerships, resource navigation, and innovative solutions such as onsite child care, second- chance hiring practices, customized training programs, and evolving transportation services. M State President Carrie Brimhall shared, “We know that we can’t do our work alone, and we’re grateful for the partnerships we have with our communities, elected officials, Chambers of Commerce, and counties. Part of what makes those partnerships special is opportunities like the Workforce Summit to give and get feedback on our workforce development efforts in authentic ways.” Otter Tail County Commissioner Kurt Mortenson emphasized the broader strategy behind the event, saying, “The County’s OTC Works workforce strategy is about promoting workforce resources, helping employers recruit and retain workers, and building partnerships to address workforce needs. The Workforce Summit brought partners together to identify their role in solutions like investing in employee training, reducing barriers to employment, and creating workplaces where people feel supported and valued.” The Workforce Summit was an excellent event to connect and activate workforce partners to explore innovative solutions. Presentations were recorded and can be viewed on Otter Tail County’s YouTube page at www.youtube.com/OtterTailCountyMN. More information about the OTC Works strategy and Otter Tail County workforce efforts is available at ottertailcounty.gov/otc-works. ### 17/33 LIVE YOUR best life HERE Communications & Public Relations • 520 W. Fir Avenue • Fergus Falls, MN 56537 • 218-998-8058 • ottertailcounty.gov FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Otter Tail County Receives Statewide Economic Development Award December 22, 2025 – Otter Tail County, MN – Otter Tail County is proud to announce that its Empowered Worker Program has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Economic Development Award by the Minnesota Association of Professional County Economic Developers (MAPCED). The award was presented on December 9 at the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) Annual Conference in Bloomington. MAPCED is a professional association for county-level economic developers in Minnesota, who champion economic growth through the advancement of county economic development professionals in Minnesota. The Empowered Worker Program is a County-initiated, workforce development program that provides training and supportive navigation services to individuals and families to overcome barriers to employment and obtain high-demand, household-sustaining wage jobs. Several county departments, including Community Development, Human Services, and Probation, coordinate on the program to ensure a holistic, whole-person approach to the services provided. Participants receive personalized, one-on-one navigation services that are shaped by their own goals and experiences. The program taps into the untapped and underutilized talent that already exists in Otter Tail County to build a pipeline of workers equipped to fill local employers’ needs. “This recognition is a testament to the heart and innovation behind our Empowered Worker Program,” said Otter Tail County Administrator Nicole Hansen. “We’re thrilled to see the work of our staff and community partners acknowledged at the state level.” “This award means a lot to us. It’s proof that when you’ve got good folks working hard and motivated individuals wanting a better life for themselves, you can make real change,” said Otter Tail County Board Chair Wayne Johnson. “Our staff didn’t just follow a playbook. They built something that fits Otter Tail County, and now others are taking notice.” Otter Tail County extends its gratitude to MAPCED and AMC for this honor and remains committed to building a more inclusive, resilient, and opportunity-rich future for all residents. More information about the Empowered Worker Program and Otter Tail County’s workforce efforts is available at ottertailcounty.gov/otc-works. ### 18/33 LIVE YOUR best life HERE Communications & Public Relations • 520 W. Fir Avenue • Fergus Falls, MN 56537 • 218-998-8058 • ottertailcounty.gov 19/33 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,032 1,500 1,000 500 0 2020 1,059 2021 Child Care Needs Analysis 2020-2025 1,123 1,035 2022 2023 1,135 2024 -capacity -child Care Need -Total Children Under 5 1,129 2025 Based on the First Children’s Finance 2025 Child Care Needs Summary. Scan the QR code to view the full report. Vergas: 31 Perham: 90 Dent: 43Pelican Rapids: 128 Erhard: 48 Elizabeth: 3 Fergus Falls: 452 Dalton: 21 Parkers Prairie: 37 Vining: 9 Henning: 25 Deer Creek: 20 Bluffton: 9 New York Mills: 119Richville: 22 Ottertail: 35 Battle Lake: 20 Underwood: 19 How many additional child care spots are needed in Otter Tail County? 20/33 Housing Growth & Development Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: December 15 @ 1:00pm Committee members: Dave Schornack (in person), Jeff Ackerson (in person), Dena Johnson (virtual) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. Pinewood Estates Update a. Closing on the sale of the third house by year-end. Staff will close out the MN Housing Grant following the closing date. 2. Updates on funding awards and timelines for 2026 projects a. The HRA will receive grant funding from MN Housing Impact Fund for single-family projects in Pelican Rapids, Parkers Prairie, and New York Mills. b. New York Mills senior housing funding application to Federal Home Loan Bank was not recommended for funding c. Congressionally directed spending request is progressing and there is confidence that it could be approved by federal government if a budget is passed in January d. Staff will be mapping out 2026 construction timelines for funded projects 3. Discuss priorities for discussion during January joint board meeting of the CDA and HRA a. Priorities from the committee include a recap of 2025 work, discussion of tax forfeiture sale process, New York Mills collaboration for housing efforts, and housing project timelines 4. Discuss tax forfeit lot opportunity for acquisition and rehab project a. Property did not sell on tax forfeit auction, so discussed acquiring the home for affordable housing rehab and resale. Staff has preliminary idea of rehab work that would need to be completed. 5. Partnership with University of MN Extension a. U of MN Extension reached out about partnering with the County on a grant application for practical research and programming around senior housing transitions and homeowner education b. Grant submission in the first half of 2026 for implementation in 2027, and could be an opportunity for up to $5 million in funding Next meeting: Monday, January 12 @ 1pm 21/33 218-998-8060 ® 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 DA Workforce Committee Update Empowered Worker Program Report Date: December 5, 2025 Program Referrals: Program referrals are accepted from the following: • Otter Tail County social workers, case workers, eligibility representatives, & probation agents. • General Public. Needs to meet at least one of the following eligibility requirements: o Housing instability o Under 200% Federal Poverty Guideline o Criminal Record o Limited English Proficiency • Employer Workforce Support (Healthcare, Trades, Manufacturing) Program Metrics 145 referrals received to date Active Participants on case load: 63 Program Enrollments: 47 D45, 30 NTRA Credentialed Training Enrollments: 23 D45, 5 NTRA Credentialed Training Completions: 7 D45, 1 NTRAExits to Employment: 2 D45, 4 NTRAOther Exits: 14 D45, 22 NTRA 22/33 LU t.J a: ::::, 0 en ...J <t a: a: LU u. LU a: M State/WDS LTC Unit Lake Region Recovery Home Pathway of Hope Home Visiting Public Health ADU PSOP Family Member Friend Child Support Disability DOC Children & Family Income Maintenance Child & Family Probation Self Behavioral Health ■ 1 ■ 1 ■ 1 ■ 1 ■ 1 ■ 1 -2 -2 -3 -3 -4 0 5 6 7 7 9 12 10 15 19 21 20 25 30 REFERRAL COUNT 35 40 44 45 50 Drive for Five Grant Expenditures Summary (July 1, 2024, to November 30, 2025) Direct Services Direct Customer Training Support Services Outreach Placement / Retention TOTAL D45 Expenditures $64,857 $81,314 $32,787 $412 $25,000 $171,187 Remaining Funds $9,143 $29,886 $6,553 $48 $25,000 $78,813 **Received approval of budget amendment to move money from the Direct Services category to the Direct Customer Training category. Navigating the Road Ahead Expenditures Summary (July 1, 2024, to November 30, 2025) Direct Services Direct Customer Training Support Services Outreach Placement / Retention TOTAL NTRA Expenditures - $16,131 $12,562 - - $28,692 Empowered Worker Case Story: Lillian is finishing up her semester work in cosmetology, supported by Navigating the Road Ahead funds. By the year’s end she will have obtained her licensure in manicurist and eyelash extension from the Minnesota Board of Cosmetology. She plans to take one more semester to obtain her esthetician licensure (specialist in cosmetic skincare treatments). Lillian plans to open her own beauty shop in Fergus Falls and offer services for nails, eyelash extensions, and skincare treatment. She was raised in an entrepreneurial family, and her mom will run the books for her business. Wheels are in motion for this exciting journey! When Lillian arrived for her intake meeting in October of 2024, she was at a crossroad. She was referred to the Empowered Worker program by the Department of Corrections. She lived at the Barbara House still in active drug treatment, was struggling with her addiction but wanted out of that lifestyle. She was lacking the confidence to know what direction to turn, or how to make anything happen. She wanted to get into a Healthcare career, however her background wouldn’t allow this. Her alternate career choices were auto mechanic or manicurist. She has always turned wrenches with her dad growing up but also wanted to have her own beauty shop. She ultimately decided that following her dreams was her direction. She overcame a lot during her time in the program: homelessness, unemployment, lack of transportation, surgery with recovery, sobriety challenges, and a long commute to school four days per week (Fergus Falls to Wadena Campus). Lillian has done a complete 180 since intake. She found a vehicle, received car repair through the program, succeeded in surgery recovery, found a house to rent with a trusted roommate, received gas cards to help with her commute to school, and received new eyeglasses to wear in her customer facing career journey. She has newfound confidence that is carrying her the rest of the way! Lillian will finish up one more semester at M State and open her business in Fergus Falls. Recently Lillian appeared in our Empowered Worker Testimonial video and was invited to tell her success story at churches and various other groups. 23/33 I I I I Workforce Support & Digital Equity Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: December 5 @ 9:00am Committee members: Kurt Mortenson (in person), Bob Schempp (virtual), Betsy Roder (virtual) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. Empowered Worker Program update a. 145 referrals to date and 63 active on case load, which is the largest number to date. We are projecting to be right on track with spending down grant funds for training and supportive services. b. Waiting on grant contract for Growing Careers Agriculture Grant and Drive for 5 round two grant announcements. We did not receive any responses to the Request for Qualifications, so staff will discuss internally how to build navigator capacity. c. Participant success stories highlighted by CareerForce on their blog and the participant testimonial video that will be shown at the Workforce Summit. 2. Review 2025 Child Care Needs Analysis data from First Children’s Finance a. Child care needs remained stable overall, but some communities saw significant changes. Needs increased in Fergus Falls due to several closures and retirements. b. Discussed solutions in development for Fergus Falls with the project led by PioneerCare to build pods with space for six family child care providers. Next meeting: Tuesday, January 20 @3pm 24/33 218-998-8060 ® 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: December 18 @ 1pm Committee members: Val Martin (virtual), Heidi Samuelson (virtual) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. Paid Leave Public Outreach Grant update a. Received noticed that we were not selected for the grant program due to high demand b. Discussed continued outreach efforts via business development newsletter 2. PROMISE Act Grants a. West Central Initiative is administering the second round of PROMISE Act Grants for businesses and non-profits. Applications are due by January 15. b. Discussed updated grant eligibility and priorities 3. Discuss Lender Convening a. Staff will begin coordination and planning for February Lender Convenings with one in person and one online option. b. Committee brainstorm of potential speakers and topics relevant to lenders, accountants, and other finance professionals supporting small businesses 4. Discuss potential Community Growth Partnership Grant application from New York Mills a. New York Mills is working on a Community Growth Partnership Grant application to request funding to replenish their commercial rehabilitation program. b. Staff will present to the full CDA Board if submitted. Next meeting: January 15 at 1pm 25/33 218-998-8060 ® 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 OTTER TAIL COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION January 7, 2026 BOARD MEETING DATE AGENDA ITEM #5A Amy Baldwin 12/30/2025 REQUESTOR’S SIGNATURE/DATE BOARD ACTION REQUESTED Authorize approval of the grant request and direct staff to prepare necessary agreement with the City of New York Mills for signature PROPOSED REQUEST/JUSTIFICATION An application has been submitted for the CDA’s Community Growth Partnership Grant Program from the City of New York Mills. Following is a summary of the application; attached is the application. • City of New York Mills – Downtown Revitalization Program o Project overview: The City is seeking a grant in the amount $25,000 to further support the Downtown Revitalization Program available to businesses in the downtown area to use to enhance their store fronts as well as eligible interior projects that will benefit the community. The funds previously awarded to the City have all been committed to projects. Matching funds for this request would be provided by the New York Mills EDA. o Requested amount: $25,000 o Attached are the proposed guidelines, which have been expanded to allow for larger matches in conjunction with larger projects. Applicants to the program would be required to provide their own matching funds on a $1 to $1 basis as well. The funding would be structured as a forgivable loan, forgiven at a rate of 20% per year for five years. Commercial rehabilitation is a permitted use of the funds. Staff recommends approval. PREVIOUS ACTION ON REQUEST/OTHER PARTIES ADVISED: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DATE: Amy Baldwin 12/30/2025 ATTACHMENT LIST: a. Application b. Draft Program Guidelines c. City Council Resolution FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: TBD BUDGETED: X YES NO FUNDING: Community Growth Partnership Program Funds COMMENTS 26/33 27/33OTTER TAIL COUNTY -MINNESOTA 2025 Community Growth Partnership Grant Application GENERAL INFORMATION Project Name: City of NYM 2026 Downtown Revitalization Grant Fund Project Type: Planning Activity D Commercial Rehabilitation 12'1 Affordable Housing D Redevelopment D Applicant City/Township: _C~ity~of_N_ew_Y_o_rk_M_il_ls _____________________ _ Application /Project Contact: Julie Roberts -----------------------------Contact Email Address: Cityclerk@cityofnewyorkmills.org Phone Number: 218-385-2213 ----------------------------------Authorized Official(s) for Execution of Contract (name and title): Julie Roberts, City Clerk Treasurer or Marsha Maki, Mayor How much funding is being requested? $ $25,000 -~----------------------PI ease provide a brief statement summarizing the proposal that will be reviewed as part of the approval process. Also include in the summary where this project is in the process (i.e., City process, site control, etc.). The City of New York Mills would like to create a grant fund for business in the community for the enhancement of their businesses both on the exterior and interior projects. Interior projects must meet the criteria of rehabilitation of commercial property that is linked to the elimination or preventions of blight, or correction of building code deficiencies. The funds received from the CDA on the application in 2024 for business revitalization have all been committed to projects that will be completed by Fall of 2026. The EDA has funds available to match this grant. I. PRE-DEVELOPMENT PLANNING ACTIVITY GRANT QUESTIONS 1. Describe the planning activity for which funds are being requested and how this planning work will advance the potential for an affordable housing or redevelopment project. Attach any work proposals from consultants and/or contractors who would be completing the planning activity. 2. Leverage: List all other funding sources and uses for the planning activity. Source of Funds Amount Committed Pending $ $ $ $ Total: $ $0.00 Itemized Use of Funds/Expenses Amount Funding Source $ $ $ 1 28/33Total: I : $0.00 II. COMMERCIAL REHA Bl LIT ATION GRANT QUESTIONS 1. Describe the rehabilitation program for which funds are being requested. Who will administer the program? Is this an existing program? Please attach proposed program guidelines. I have attached the guideline for the proposed new program. The City of NYM will administer the program. 2. Describe how the proposed project will benefit the community or area in which it is located, including direct and indirect employment benefits, effects on the tax base (if any), and benefits to other businesses. As a growing small community, our businesses frequently are looking for that extra spark to convince them to do projects that will benefit the business and the community. The grants would help businesses do projects that they may not have been able to do otherwise. 3. Leverage: List all sources and uses of funding for the Commercial Rehabilitation Program. Source of Funds Amount Committed Pending Cit of New York Mills $ 25,000 $25,000 CDA $ $25,000 $25,000 $ $ Total: $ $50,000 Itemized Use of Funds/Expenses Amount Funding Source Loan Fund $ $25,000 Cit of NYM Loan Fund $ $25,000 CDA $ $ Total: $ $50,000 Ill. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT GRANT QUESTIONS Project site address(es): Acreage of site: --------------Number of parcels: Is the Project site publicly or privately owned? Publicly Owned ___ Privately Owned Current Project site owner(s): &~ OTTER TAIL ~J COUNTY· MINNESOTA 2 29/33New York Mills Economic Development Authority (EDA) Downtown Matching Grant Program -2026 Applicant Name: Applicant Address: Applicant Phone: Applicant Email: Owner Name: Owner Phone: Building Address: Property Parcel ID: Proposed Start Date: __________________ (if different) __________________ (if different) _______ End Date: _______ _ Written Narrative for Scope of Project (detail all work proposed to be completed): Checklist for Application: o Fully completed application o Plans, specifications, and designs for the proposed work to be completed o If tenant, letter of support from owner authorizing work to take place o Completed budget worksheet 30/33New York Mills Economic Development Authority (EDA) Downtown Matching Grant Program -2026 Budget Worksheet Exterior Project Costs: Masonry work $ Carpentry $ Awnings/canopy $ Siding $ Windows $ Signage $ Doors $ Landscaping $ Entryway /threshold $ Restoration/rehab $ Painting $ Other (specify) $ Total Estimated Cost $ -----By signing below I agree that all information herein is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I authorize the New York Mills Economic Development Authority and City Council to use this provided information to make decisions and understand that I may not receive any loan funds. I also attest that I am the owner and operator of a business in greater New York Mills Downtown Area and will use any allocated funds as appropriately defined in the policy. Signature, Title Date Printed Name 31/33New York Mills Economic Development Authority (EDA) Downtown Matching Grant Program 2026 Purpose: The purpose of the Downtown Matching Grant Program is to establish a fund to assist building owners with the implementation of the vision for Downtown of New York Mills, which is to encourage continuation of a viable downtown by allowing prime retail sales and service uses, office, entertainment facilities, public and semi-public uses, and in special circumstances, residential use; and to preserve and build on the historic character of the downtown using the historic and natural resources available to create a tourist destination as well as to provide a unique blend of retail and service businesses for the convenience of local residents. "Downtown" is defined as the greater business community of New York Mills. Duration: Matching grants (forgivable loans) may be made under these policies to the extent funds are available, as allocated to the fund by the New York Mills Economic Development Authority. Eligible Applicants: Applicants may include building owners and tenants of downtown businesses in New York Mills. Applicants may be individual owners, partnerships, corporations, tenant operators or contract for deed purchasers of property within Downtown of New York Mills. Each applicant must provide all documentation of entity status requested on the application form. The property, upon which the improvements will be made, must be of a conforming use or legal non-conforming use under the New York Mills Zoning Ordinance. Matching grants are available to properties within appropriate Zoning Districts which are making visible changes to the facades or exteriors of buildings including parking and landscaping improvements as defined by the Zoning Administrator. Additionally, interior renovations that fall under the rehabilitation of a commercial property that is linked to the elimination or prevention of blight, or correction of building code deficiencies. Required Match: All applicants must provide matching funds on a minimum 1: 1 ratio for grants up to $5,000. Eligible Uses: Matching grant dollars may be used for improvements to the exterior of buildings including brick replacement and repair, window and door replacemenUrepair, awnings and signs, exterior steps/entrances, landscaping and parking. Additionally, interior renovations including resurfacing of floors, wall coverings, ceilings, and other individual improvements to interior of building may be approved at the discretion of the New York Mills Economic Development Authority. Number of Grants: Each applicant is generally eligible for one matching grant per calendar year; exceptions to be made by the New York Mills EDA and City Council. Size of Grant: To the extent funds are available, the EDA may offer up to five $10,000 matching grants for projects with a total cost of at least $20,000. Dollar amounts are subject to change and can be reallocated depending on amount budgeted and project proposed. Design Standards: All projects must meet the criteria identified in the New York Mills Zoning Ordinances and approved by the Zoning Administrator. 32/33Project Commencement: Projects utilizing the matching grant program may not begin prior to approval of the Design review, approval of the matching grant or issuance of a building permit. Grant Payments: Applicants shall submit a copy of the invoice for the matching grant related improvement to the City. Grant payments shall typically be made directly to the owner/ tenant after verification of completion the work or supplying the product, following certification or inspection of the approved project by the City in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance and other city regulations. Under no circumstances will work completed prior to approval of the application be allowed to qualify for funds. Timing of Approval of Funds: To be considered for approval in the same month, please have applications submitted to the City Office no later than the first of the month. Applications will be reviewed by the EDA loan committee, then sent to EDA board for approval, with the final approval coming from the City Council. Timing of Use of Grant Funds: Applicants shall have one (1) year to complete the project and have applicant's contractor(s) receive the matching grant disbursements from the date that the matching grant received approval from the City of New York Mills City Council. If the project is not started or completed within the allocated timeframe a written notice to the City of New York Mills EDA shall be provided as to the reasons to the delay in the project. The EDA may request an individual to attend a meeting in order to discuss the project in detail again. Once a written response is received from the EDA then one (1) additional year may be granted to continue to use the allocated funds. Security: At the City Council's discretion, the City Council may require the applicant and property owner (if different from the applicant) to execute a subsidy agreement and promissory note upon the approval of the matching grant. In addition, the City Council may require the property owner to execute a mortgage as security for the repayment pursuant to the terms of the promissory note. Repayment: The amount of the loan (without interest) will be due and payable to the City of New York Mills EDA five (5) years following the distribution of loan funds. If; however, the business to which the loan was granted remains in business in the improved building five (5) years following the distribution of loan funds or the applicant transfers ownership to another entity that maintains the business the improved building for at least five years following the distribution of loan funds, the loan shall be forgiven by the New York Mills EDA If the borrower is to sell the building prior to 5 years since disbursement date, the loan amount will be forgiven 20% for each year since the disbursement. If it is within first year, funds will be due, unless the borrower sold to an eligible operating entity as determined by the City of New York Mills. Conflict of Interest: The applicant shall submit the name(s) of the owner(s), shareholder(s), partner(s}, sole proprietor, corporation member(s) or other person(s) or business(es) with any financial interest in the project and its financing in order to preclude any conflict of interest in the loan review and approval process. For More Information: Building owners/tenants interested in applying for the EDA matching grant program may contact the City of New York Mills at: 218-385-2300 or email Julie Roberts, City Clerk at cityclerk@cityofnewyorkmills.org The matching grant application form may be downloaded from the City's website at: https://newyorkmills.govoffice2.com/ Select the "Ordinance" and "Economic Development Authority" links. 33/33CITY OF NEW YORK MILLS, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 12-09-2025c RESOLUTION ACKNOWLEDGING COUNCIL SUPPORT FOR THE OTTER TAIL COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY GRANT FOR THE NEW YORK MILLS EDA BUSINESS REVIT ALIZA TI ON LOAN/GRANT PROGRAM WHEREAS, the City of New York Mills is currently working on a project to establish an EDA Business Revitalization Loan/Grant Program, WHEREAS, the City of New York Mills has been made aware of grant funds available through the Otter Tail Community Development Agency, WHEREAS, the City of New York Mills is working with the Otter Tail County CDA to establish a fund for an EDA Business Revitalization Loan/Grant Progra, NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF NEW YORK MILLS, MINNESOTA THAT: the City Council of New York Mills is in support of submitting an application for grant money from the Otter Tail County Community Development Agency to be used for an EDA Business Revitalization Loan/Grant program. Adopted this 9th day of December 2025, by the City Council of the City ofNew York Mills. Latham Hetland, Mayor (;}lu-fU4fu ,s;;e-: JufeR.oberts, City Clerk