Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
Community Development Agency - CDA-Packet-05-06-2026 Supporting Documents - 05/06/2026
OTTER TAIL COUNTY – MINNESOTA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA Government Services Center, Otter Tail Lake Room 515 West Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN May 6, 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. April 1, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes B. March 2026 Financial Reports 4. Reports and Presentations A. Director Status Report B. Committee Reports Housing and Development Workforce Support and Digital Equity (did not meet) Business Development C. ‘On the Map’ Report D. Board Member Updates 5. Regular Business A. Community Growth Partnership Grant Application: City of Pelican Rapids 6. Discussion and Communications A. Project Update: Vine Street Rehabilitation B. Other Communications C. Upcoming Meetings: a. Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 11:00 am, Otter Tail Lake Room, Government Services Center with HRA Board meeting beginning at 12:45 pm 7. Adjourn 1/55 2/55 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 1, 2026 1. Call to Order The Otter Tail County Community Development Agency convened at 11:00 am, Wednesday, April 1, 2026. 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 Paula Grunewald, CDA/HRA Administrative Assistant x Others: none 2. Approval of Agenda Approval of Agenda motion was made by Jeff Ackerson, second by Dena Johnson, and unanimously carried to approve as presented. 3. Approval of Consent Agenda Motion by Dena Johnson, second by Heidi Samuelson to approve the Consent Agenda. Motion passed unanimously. 4. Reports and Presentations A/B. Director’s Status Report/Committee Reports: Partnered with Perham for a Housing Symposium with Kelly Ashe as the speaker Workforce o Workforce Convening held March 31 o Workforce Program Manager position has been posted Childcare o Two childcare grant applications have been submitted – one County led and one we supported OTTERTAIL COUNTY -MINNESOTA 3/55 o Providing support to Children’s Corner Childcare Legislative Update Working with Bongards for bond allocation for their wastewater project; a resolution associated with the allocation will be brought forward in April to the Board of Commissioners C. On the Map Report Erik Osberg, Rural Rebound Initiative Coordinator reported Working on a poll or a form of communication with resort partners on vacancies Hiring a summer intern Placer.AI report will be presented next month D. Board Member Updates - none 5. Regular Business Items A. Community Growth Partnership Grant Application: City of Battle Lake Amy Baldwin, CDA Director presented the Community Growth Partnership Grant Application submitted by the City of Battle Lake, Galloping Goose. The property has been rezoned for commercial use. This will be an additional location for Galloping Goose to provide rented recreation items such as bikes, etc. with associated retail offerings. Funds are needed to install new windows and complete facade and accessibility improvements with an approximate cost of $128,000. Up to 5% of estimated cost or $6,390 in funding can be requested, per grant guidelines. Motion by Sean Sullivan, second by Jeff Ackerson to approve 5% of actual project costs up to $6,390, contingent on receiving the City Resolution from Battle Lake. Motion passed unanimously. B. Resolution Authorizing Purchase of Parcel 711004990460000 (1209 S Vine St., Fergus Falls). Amy Baldwin, CDA Director provided a brief background on the Vine Street Property. This is a tax forfeited property that was not purchased at auction. Staff is requesting authorization from the CDA Board to pursue purchase of this property with the County Board. If approved by the County Board, the property would undergo a thorough rehabilitation and be sold to a household whose income does not exceed 115% state median income. Motion by Dena Johnson, second by Heidi Samuelson to authorize the purchase of Parcel 711004990460000 (1209 S. Vine St., Fergus Falls). Roll call vote was taken: Jeff Ackerson - yes, Dena Johnson - yes, Kurt Mortenson - yes, Betsy Roder - yes, Heidi Samuelson - yes, Bob Schempp Jr. - yes, Dave Schornack - yes; Sean Sullivan - no. Motion passed. The request to purchase this parcel will be presented at the April 14th Commissioner Board Meeting. 6. Discussion and Communications A. Other Communications Review of pending Federal housing legislation Workforce strategy refresh: what is our role in supporting the workforce needs of our employers and residents 7. Adjourned 4/55 PctReportCode1 9:52:08AM Achristoph 03/2026 03/2026Cash 8% 03/2026War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 705 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 000 ... 23-705-000-0000-6140 10,920.00 912,000 1,080.00Per Diem 1,080.00 COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307706 2/9/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307706 3/11/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307708 2/9/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307709 2/19/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307712 2/9/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307709 3/11/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307711 2/17/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 200154 2/17/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 200155 3/11/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 200155 2/17/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307711 3/11/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 3/24/2026 90.00 307712 3/11/26 CDA - PER DIEM 23-705-000-0000-6240 5,000.00 05,000 0.00Publishing & Advertising 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6241 5,000.00 05,000 0.00Membership Dues 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6242 2,000.00 02,000 0.00Registration Fees 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6266 383.00 731,400 1,017.00Audit Cost 1,017.00 COM 3/10/2026 1,017.00 199852 72890 AUDIT SERVICES 7/30/25-1/13/26 23-705-000-0000-6290 350,000.00 0350,000 0.00Contracted Services.0.00 23-705-000-0000-6330 3,255.67 73,500 244.33Mileage244.33 COM 3/24/2026 58.00 307712 3/11/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/24/2026 66.70 307711 3/11/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/24/2026 55.10 200155 2/17/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/24/2026 29.00 307709 3/11/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/24/2026 27.55 307708 2/9/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 3/24/2026 7.98 307706 3/11/26 CDA - MILEAGE 23-705-000-0000-6331 3,000.00 03,000 0.00Travel Expenses 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6333 4,889.77 25,000 110.23Meeting/Event Costs 110.23 AUD 3/20/2026 40.58 199987 3/20/26 AB - SUPPLIES BUSINESS MTG COM 3/24/2026 69.65 200044 3/11/26 MEALS FOR BOARD MTG 3/11/26 23-705-000-0000-6355 4,000.00 04,000 0.00Liability Insurance 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6822 200,000.00 0200,000 0.00Community Growth Partnership Grant 0.00 23-705-000-7001-6828 5,000.00 05,000 0.00Site Development (TIF)0.00 ...02,451.56 2,451.56595,900.00 593,448.44 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 02,451.56 2,451.56595,900.00 593,448.44 Page 2 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference03/2026 - 03/2026 PROGRAM DEPT 4/6/2026 000 705 Actual ForType2026 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE - DETAIL MTD Otter Tail County Auditor EAt 5/55 BB-DPA-2026-02 BB-DPA-2026-03 PctReportCode1 9:52:08AM Achristoph 03/2026 03/2026Cash 8% 03/2026War# 8 Char Invoice# Description Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems 706 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 000 ... 23-706-000-0000-6240 500.00 05000.00Publishing & Advertising 0.00 23-706-000-0000-6290 20,000.00 020,000 0.00Contracted Services 0.00 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 3,900.00 8424,000 20,100.00Down Payment Assistance 20,100.00 AUD 3/20/2026 11,700.00 199984 DOWN PAYMENT ASSIST - KUTZKE AUD 3/20/2026 8,400.00 199985 DOWN PAYMENT ASSIST - BURNS 23-706-807-0000-6830 40,000.00 040,000 0.00Housing Rehabilitation 0.00 23-706-807-0000-6832 200,000.00 0200,000 0.00Loan Assistance Program 0.00 ...00.00120,500.00 120,500.00 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 820,100.00 20,100.00264,000.00 243,900.00 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 520,100.00 20,100.00384,500.00 364,400.00 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 222,551.56 22,551.56980,400.00 957,848.44 222,551.56 22,551.56980,400.00 957,848.44 Page 3 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference03/2026 - 03/2026 PROGRAM PROGRAM DEPT FUND Final Totals 18 Accounts 4/6/2026 000 807 706 23 Actual ForType2026 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE - DETAIL MTD Otter Tail County Auditor EAt 6/55 Pct 21 Accounts 10:00:59AM Achristoph 01/2026 03/2026Cash 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 03/2026 Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 705 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 000 ... 6140 PER DIEM 8,760.00 271,080.00 3,240.00 6240 PUBLISHING & ADVERTISING 5,000.00 00.00 0.00 6241 MEMBERSHIP DUES 1,400.00 720.00 3,600.00 6242 REGISTRATION FEES 1,605.00 200.00 395.00 6266 AUDIT COST 383.00 731,017.00 1,017.00 6290 CONTRACTED SERVICES.350,000.00 00.00 0.00 6330 MILEAGE 2,464.52 30244.33 1,035.48 6331 TRAVEL EXPENSES 2,363.34 210.00 636.66 6333 MEETING/EVENT COSTS 4,695.02 6110.23 304.98 6355 LIABILITY INSURANCE 323.00 1080.00 4,323.00 6369 MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES 53.20 00.00 53.20 6822 COMMUNITY GROWTH PARTNERSHIP GRANT 200,000.00 00.00 0.00 6828 SITE DEVELOPMENT (TIF)4,874.78 30.00 125.22 6829 IMPACT FUND EXPENSES 243.72 00.00 243.72 706 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 000 ... 6240 PUBLISHING & ADVERTISING 500.00 00.00 0.00 6290 CONTRACTED SERVICES 19,439.00 30.00 561.00 6333 MEETING/EVENT COSTS 549.42 00.00 549.42 6822 COMMUNITY GROWTH PARTNERSHIP GRANT 100,000.00 00.00 0.00 807 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 6825 DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE 8,880.00 13720,100.00 32,880.00 6830 HOUSING REHABILITATION 40,000.00 00.00 0.00 6832 LOAN ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 199,954.00 00.00 46.00 ...14,974.26 32,451.56 580,925.74 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 14,974.26 32,451.56 580,925.74595,900.00 ...1,110.42 10.00 119,389.58 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 32,926.00 1220,100.00 231,074.00 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 34,036.42 920,100.00 350,463.58384,500.00 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 980,400.00 49,010.68 522,551.56 931,389.32 5 22,551.56 49,010.68 980,400.00 931,389.32 Page 2 Report For: ToReport Basis: FUND Percent of Year: Actual For Account Description Actual For BDGT - ACT Difference01/2026 - 03/2026 - - - TOTAL TOTAL - TOTAL - TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL Final Totals 4/6/2026 25 EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE - YTD SUMMARY 12,000.00 5,000.00 5,000.00 2,000.00 1,400.00 350,000.00 3,500.00 3,000.00 5,000.00 4,000.00 0.00 200,000.00 5,000.00 0.00 500.00 20,000.00 0.00 100,000.00 24,000.00 40,000.00 200,000.00 595,900.00 120,500.00 264,000.00 2026 BUDGET Otter Tail County Auditor 7/55 DATE: April 30, 2026 TO: CDA Board of Directors FROM: Amy Baldwin, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Director Status Report Housing Growth Initiative / The Big Build: Attached is a County Housing Profile prepared by Minnesota Housing Partnership. MHP generates these profiles every other year, which provide a snapshot of the affordability of housing within the County. Workforce Support Strategy / OTC Works: Interviews for the Project Manager-Workforce Navigator position have been held. The position will continue to support the Empowered Worker Program with employer outreach, training and development, and participant navigation. Convened a group of employers, education partners, and other workforce stakeholders for a workforce strategy discussion to provide feedback and thoughts on a refresh to the OTC Works strategy. The Workforce Committee will discuss takeaways at their May meeting and provide further input to inform the strategy refresh. Child Care: Groundbreaking event for the PioneerCare and Habitat child care project on Wednesday, May 6 at 12:30. Details are on the attached flyer image. Staff is preparing a $10,000 grant application to West Central Initiative to continue contracting with our Child Care Project Managers with a focus on provider and center retention, provider outreach, and development of a countywide child care fund. Child Care Provider Appreciation Day is May 8. The County Board of Commissioners approved a proclamation, and other recognition will be distributed including a press release, social media promotion, banners in public spaces at GSC, and small gifts to all licensed providers and centers. Business Development: Quarterly business development newsletter was distributed to more than 1,200 recipients with highlights on National Small Business Week, Paid Leave Grants for Small Employers, Blandin Foundation grant opportunities, and construction prep best practices for businesses: members.ottertaillakescountry.com/ap/EmailViewer/PYB49nvL National Small Business Week is May 3-9. The County Board of Commissions approved a proclamation, and other recognition will be distributed including a press release, social media promotion, and the email newsletter spotlight. Miscellaneous: Ava Hastings will be joining the Community Development team on May 18 as our summer intern. She is a Fergus Falls High School graduate and currently attending East Carolina University College pursuing a business administration and marketing degree. > > > > > > > > > 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 8/55 Page 2 Attachments: MHP County Housing Profile Fergus Falls Childcare Project groundbreaking West Central SBDC Impact Report Placer.AI report Workforce Data 2015-2025 9/55 2026 COUNTY PROFILES x RENTER HOUSEHOLDSHOMEOWNER HOUSEHOLDS Cost burden: occurs when a household spends more than 30% of its income on housing costs. | Severe cost burden occurs when a household spends more than 50%. Housing cost-burdened families have less to spend on food, healthcare, and other basic needs. Cost-Burden Rates by Household Types White Compared to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Homeownership Rate Income and Housing Costs: Change Over Five Years All homeownership rates are rounded to the nearest whole number. In many counties, home values outpace incomes. Housing older than 50 years may require reinvestment or rehab. Otter Tail County 25,157 Households 5,161 | 21% of households19,996 | 79% of households There are 5,759 cost-burdened Otter Tail County households, or 23% of all households. 3,876 ownersare cost burdened (19% of all owners) 1,883 rentersare cost burdened (42% of all renters) 902 rentersare severely cost burdened (20% of all renters) 765 senior rentersare cost burdened (61% of all senior renters) From 2019 to 2024 Renter income: -4% change to $36,830 Rent: 4% change to $868 From 2019 to 2024 Owner income: 1% change to $85,697 Home values: 17% change to $273,000 38% of homes were built before 1970.29% of rental homes were built before 1970. 64% of BIPOC households own a home. That means white homeownership is 17% points higher than BIPOC homeownership in the county. 19%20% 61%42% There are racial disparities in who owns a home in Otter Tail County. 81% of white households own a home.White Homeowners: 19,091 BIPOC Homeowners: 1,231 m 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 10/55 DEFINITIONS Affordable housing is defined as housing costing no more than 30% of a household’s adjusted income. An affordable and available home is housing which is both affordable and vacant or not occupied by a higher-income household. Cost burden occurs when a household spends more than 30% of its income on housing costs. Severe cost burden occurs when a household spends more than 50%. Median values are the midpoint (50th percentile) of their respective distributions, meaning half of the households earn or pay more, and half earn or pay less. Median values are used instead of averages because they are less affected by unusually high or low (outlier) numbers. DATA & SOURCES Research reflects the most recent data available. Unless otherwise indicated, data is from 2024. Income and housing cost data reflect median values. Change in income, rent, and home values have been adjusted for inflation. The top in-demand jobs are geographically organized by MN DEED’s six planning areas, ordered left to right by demand. • Cost burden and homeownership: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS), 2024 5-year estimates.• ELI renters and affordable homes: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), ACS 5-year Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) county estimates, 2025 release based on 2018-2022 data • In-demand jobs: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (MN DEED), Occupations in Demand, 2025 Homes available and affordable to renters with extremely low incomes. Households with extremely low incomes (earning ≤$33,000/yr) RESEARCH INQUIRIES: Gabriela Norton, Director of Research | Gabriela.Norton@mhponline.org | mhponline.org/publicationsMHP is an equal opportunity employer and provider. ©2026 Minnesota Housing Partnership. The cost of housing is out of reach for many hard-working renters and homeowners. $X Earnings in the Region’s Highest-Demand Jobs Compared to the County’s Housing Costs The supply of available and affordable homes falls far short for renters with extremely low incomes. Annual income required to afford: 905 median apartment: $34,720 535 (or 37%) of all renter households with extremely low incomes do not have access to a home they can afford. Affordable Homes Available to Extremely Low-Income Renters in Otter Tail 1,440 Nursing Assistants Retail Salespersons Home Health & Personal Care Aides Registered Nurses Fast Food & Counter Workers $42,735 $34,731 $37,192 $87,175 $30,264 median-priced home: $81,900 $140,000 $130,000 $120,000 $110,000 $100,000 $90,000 $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0 11/55 Please join us as we celebrate the groundbreaking of our new Channing Child Care Village ty;J Expanding : "'-' access to care • • Supporting : * Strengthening families • our workforce. • • mn • Wednesday, May 6 • • • • • 0 • 12:30 PM • • • Q • 824/826 E. Channing Ave . • • Fergus Falls • • • Across from Hillcrest Elementary Please park on the street. In partnership with • Fergus Falls Area 9 PIONEER Care i • Habitat for Humanity ® • • iat !.ti. 12/55 WEST CENTRALMN SBDC 2026 IMPACT REPORT From Our Director “In 2025 we reflected on issues new and old that are important to small businesses in our region. We wrapped up a series of AI focus groups around our region to understand what small business owners here want more of. This informed the 10 [C]hats, AI conferences that we held in June. We also developed and implemented the first two cohorts of a curriculum developed specifically for the unique needs of rural small businesses called, Rural Edge . It’s been a good year and we look forward to continuing to refine our work to meet the needs of West Central MN small businesses.” - Ian Carlstrom WC MN SBDC Regional Director A~i"s SB·DC"" .. ~ u ~ @ Minnesota State MINNESOTA Community and Technical College 13/55 218.299.6605 | westcentralmnsbdc.com | SBDC@Minnesota.edu “They where helpful to get my business plan and projections polished up and looking professional thanks again!” “Great experience and amazing help to my business.” “I didn't know this service was out there! Very thankful for all the help and looking forward to working with my consultant again soon.” Scan QR code for more testimonials. Client Testimonials West Central MNSmall BusinessDevelopmentCenter $135M+ 458 Clients Served in 2025 Our History In 1979, the SBA funded the first Small Business Development Centers in MN, and in 1980 President Carter signed the SBDC program into law. From mail order catalogs to ecommerce, from high inflation in the 1980's to the Great Recession, to the covid pandemic to supply chain issues, we worked with small businesses in West Central MN to help them grow and thrive. Providing technical assistance to small businesses in Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens, Traverse and Wilkin counties to help local economies grow and thrive for over 45 years. 222Business Starts in 20 years Capital Funding for Small Businesses in20 years32Business Starts in 2025 $17M+Capital Funding for Small Businesses in 2025 3,842 Clients Served in 20 Years Covid Pandemic Great Recession Move to M State Move from MSUM toConcordia College" 600 500 E 400 ., i'.'l 300 ., ::, .,. c: 200 :::, 100 • • • • t ft t Unique cli1ents per Year • ---- • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ffffffffffffffffffff tttttttttttttttttttt 14/55 218.299.6605 | westcentralmnsbdc.com | SBDC@Minnesota.edu Clay County 41% Otter Tail County 24.6% Becker County 17.8% Douglas County 8.8% Stevens County 2.3% Grant County 1.4% Approximately 25% of our work takes place with clients in Otter Tail county. In 2025, we invested $145,000 worth of effort to support Otter Tail County small business efforts. That work includes both one-on-one business consulting and unique training events. Client Testimonial Our Work in Otter Tail County 138 Classes & Workshops Offered in Otter Tail County Since 2023 983 Unique Clients Served in 20 Years Business Starts Since 2023 eCommerce Essentials - Website Basics eCommerce Essentials - Intro to Cybersecurity Digital Marketing in Vergas Exploring AI for Your Business in Pelican Rapids, Fergus Falls, and Perham We Thrive cohort - Fergus Falls Thrive During constructions - Pelican Rapids & Fergus Falls SBA Overview HUBZone Entrepreneurs Edge cohort Fergus Falls’ Rural Edge cohort 264 people attended SBDC workshops or classes in Otter Tail County since January, 2023 Percentages of Clients Served From Each County ‘23-25 213 Clients Served Since 2023 32 $15.4M+ Capital Funding for Small Business clients in Otter Tail County since 2023 Business Starts Since 2005 $148M+ Capital Funding for Small Business clients in Otter Tail County since 2005 “Hearing the perspective of the facilitator on a business topic, but also getting the perspective of different business owners is interesting!” - Vergas’ Rural Edge attendee • • • • • • • • • • • • t ff R -• • • • • • • • • • tttttf.tttt 15/55 218.299.6605 | westcentralmnsbdc.com | SBDC@Minnesota.edu Your role in economic and small business development is vital—but you don’t have to do it alone. The West Central MN SBDC is your turnkey solution for delivering proven, high-impact programs & support that directly impact local businesses. We Make it Easy - You provide the Vision. We Handle the Work. You identify the need. You help promote the opportunity. You celebrate the impact. We handle everything else—from program delivery to expert consulting to tracking results—so you can focus on your broader economic development goals while knowing small businesses in your community are receiving the support they need. These collaborative efforts have already empowered remarkable successes throughout our region, showing immediate and long-term outcomes! The best part? Your investment is instantly doubled through our federal match. Ready to explore what’s possible? Let’s talk. Ian.Carlstrom@Minnesota.edu218.299.6606 += SBDC Federal MatchYour Investment Double Your Impact Ian Carlstrom, Regional Director As a champion of economic and small business development, your investment is already shaping the future—now, let’s maximize its impact. The SBDC offers a federal funding match—free money already secured to support small business growth, but it’s up to local partners like you to activate these funds where they’re needed most. Your support ensures these funds expand services, launch targeted programs, and create lasting solutions that strengthen businesses and local economies. Invest in the Future ofSmall Business - SBDC Sponsorships &Strategic Partnerships • •••••····· •••••••······ • • • 16/55 Community Report-Otter Tail County Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 2 / 7 Market Population Metrics I Otter Tail County· Minnesota Resident Population (Census 2024) Out-of-Market Visitors Non-Resident Visits Compared to: 1 Year Ago I Jan 1st, 2026-Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) @ Placer.ai 60.SK {+0.3% vs. 2023) Employees 27.9K (-3.8% YOY) 353.2K (-3.4% YOY) Daytime Population (STI : Workplace 2024) 61 .8K 1 .4M (+0.7% YOY) @Placer.ai 17/55 Community Report-Otter Tail County Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 3 / 7 Population Trend I Otter Tail County· Minnesota 60K 50K C 40K 0 -~ :5 C. 30K 0 0.. ~ 'cil 20K 0 l0K 0 Jan 01 Jan 07 Jan 13 Jan 19 Jan 25 Jan 31 Feb 06 Feb 12 Feb 18 Feb 24 Mar 02 Mar 08 Mar 14 Mar 20 Mar 26 • Residents • Inbound Commuters • Out-of-Market Visitors Daily I Visits I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) e Placer.ai Avg. Daily Population I 50.1 K I 1.7K I 13.3K e Placer.ai 18/55 Community Report-Otter Tail County Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 4 / 7 Top Visited Places I Otter Tail County• Minnesota Rank Name City Total Visits Walmart 3300 Mn-210, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 430.SK McDonald's 2 2085 College Way, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 135.2K Service Food Market 3 321 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 121 .9K Aldi 4 1802 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 117K Cenex Full Site 5 2605 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 113.6K Central Market 6 Perham 113.2K 211 Market Dr, Perham, MN 56573 Circle K Full Site 7 305 5. Union Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 99.6K 8 Holiday Station Store 305 5. Union Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 99.3K Fleet Farm 9 2002 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 98.4K 10 Lake Region Healthcare 712 5 Cascade St, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fergus Falls 98.2K ~ Placer.ai 19/55 Community Report-Otter Tail County Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 5 / 7 I Otter Tail County• Minnesota Rank Name Cenex Full Site 11 43869 Fort Thunder Rd, Perham, MN 56573 Oasis Travel Plaza Full Site 12 43937 Ft Thunder Rd, Perham, MN 56573 13 The Home Depot 2025 Lincoln Avenue West, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 14 Rothsay Truck Stop Full Site 544 Center St N, Rothsay, MN 56579 McDonald's 15 100Judd St, Perham, MN 56573 16 Westridge Mall 2001 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 17 Big Chief Travel Plaza Full Site 22518 Big ChiefRd, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 18 Casey's General Store Full Site 625 E Vernon Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 19 Casey's General Store 625 E Vernon Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 20 Walgreens 326 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Fall s, MN 56537 Category: All Categories I In Market Only I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) ~ Placer.ai City Total Visits Perham 92.8K Perham 92.8K Fergus Falls 87.9K Rothsay 80.6K Perham 79.8K Fergus Falls 77.8K Fergus Falls 75.3K Fergus Falls 73.8K Fergus Falls 73.4K Fergus Falls 73.3K ~ Placer.ai 20/55 Community Report-Otter Tail County Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 6 / 7 Hourly Activity I Otter Tail County· Minnesota 60K 50K C: 40K .!:! nl s C. 30K 0 0.. c:i, ~ 20K l0K 0 12:00am 02:00am 04:00am 06:00am 08:00am • Residents • Inbound Commuters • Out-of-Market Visitors Avg. Population I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) e Placer.ai 10:00am 12:00pm 02:00pm 04:00pm 06:00pm 08:00pm 10:00pm e Placer.ai 21/55 Community Report-Otter Tail County Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 7 / 7 Daily Activity I Otter Tail County· Minnesota SOK 60K C: .!:! nl s C. 40K 0 0.. c:i, ~ 20K 0 Monday Tuesday Wednesday • Residents • Inbound Commuters • Out-of-Market Visitors Avg. Population I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) e Placer.ai Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday e Placer.ai 22/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 1 / 12 Visitation Metrics I Otter Tail County· Minnesota Out-of-Market Visitors Avg. Days in Market Median Daily Time Spent in Market Compared to: 1 Year Ago I Jan 1st, 2026-Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) @ Placer.ai 353.2K (-3.4% YOY) Visits 1.2M (-0.2% YOY) 3.4 Avg. Daily Time Spent in Market 475 min 242 min @Placer.ai 23/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 2 / 12 Visits Trend I Otter Tail County· Minnesota 30K 25K 20K .'!l "iii 15K 5 lOK 5K 0 Jan 01 Jan 06 Jan 11 Jan 16 Jan 21 Jan 26 Jan 31 Feb 05 Feb 10 Feb 15 Feb 20 Feb 25 Mar 02 Mar 07 Mar 12 Mar 17 Mar 22 Mar 27 • Out-of-Market Visitors Daily I Visits I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) e Placer.ai e Placer.ai 24/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 3 / 12 Visits Variance I Otter Tail County· Minnesota 20% 15% ti 10% ·u; 5 .e:: 5% QJ Cl C ctl 0% ..c:: -u >--5% ~ -10% -15% Jan 05 Jan 12 * Data before 1/1/2019 is not available Jan 19 Jan26 Weekly I Compared to: 1 Year Ago I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) e Placer.ai -- Feb 02 Feb09 Feb16 Feb23 Mar02 Mar09 Mar16 Mar23 e Placer.ai 25/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 4 / 12 Visitor Origins # Visitors 305 -694.5 694.5-3.8K e Placer.ai Vancouver \ . Seattle WASH . Spokane . . Portland ,..> . ■ 3.8K -14.3K ■ 14.3K -39.3K ORE. t NEV. Cars~n City JJ CALIF . Bakersfield . Los~eles <;::, ~ Tijuana . Helena MONTANA Billings . IDAHO -\ WYO . Og~en UTAH r .J Rapi~ City Cheyenne . COLO. N.M. Ciudad Juarez •, S.D. IOWA NEBR. Omaha D "Ci United States KANS. OKLA. Dallas . TEXAS MO. ARK. \ WIS. Madison l!J ChicaJJJ1 ILL. ONTARIO ~ ,~ --"U-~ t' .,.'</> r1, ,. ® Ottawa -~ Detroitl_:::~0 Buffalo N.Y. PA . OHIO W.VA. KY . TENN. ... 0 Memphis Atlanta . s.c . MISS. ALA . 1 200 mi GA. I © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap 26/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 5 / 12 County Visitors (% of Total) Cass 39.3K (11.1%) North Dakota Becker 29.8K (8.4%) Minnesota Clay 25.SK (7.2%) Minnesota Douglas 21 .6K (6.1 %) Minnesota Stearns 14.7K (4.2%) Minnesota Hennepin 14.2K (4%) Minnesota Wadena 11.7K (3.3%) Minnesota e Placer.ai 27/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 6 / 12 County Visitors (% of Total) Todd 10.3K (2.9%) Minnesota Richland 9.8K (2.8%) North Dakota Crow Wing 6.7K (1.9%) Minnesota Wilkin 6.SK (1.8%) Minnesota Grant 5.7K (1.6%) Minnesota e Placer.ai 28/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 7 / 12 County Visitors (% of Total) Anoka 5.3K (1.5%) Minnesota Hubbard 4.8K (1.4%) Minnesota Ramsey 4.SK (1.3%) Minnesota Wright 4.SK (1.3%) Minnesota Cass 4.4K (1.2%) Minnesota e Placer.ai 29/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 8 / 12 County Dakota Minnesota Grand Forks North Dakota Kandiyohi Minnesota Visitors I * Showing data for top 20 County of of this market I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) @ Placer.ai Visitors (% of Total) 4.3K (1.2%) 4.1 K (1.2%) 4.1 K (1.2%) @Placer.ai 30/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 9 / 12 Visitors' Top Places I Otter Tail County• Minnesota Rank Name Walmart 3300 Mn-210, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Cenex Full Site 2 2605 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 McDonald's 3 2085 College Way, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Oasis Travel Plaza Full Site 4 43937 Ft Thunder Rd, Perham, MN 56573 Cenex Full Site 5 43869 Fort Thunder Rd, Perham, MN 56573 6 Big Chief Travel Plaza Full Site 22518 Big Chief Rd, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 7 Rothsay Truck Stop Full Site 544 Center St N, Rothsay, MN 56579 8 Applebee's 605 Kennedy Park Rd, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fleet Farm 9 2002 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 10 Lincoln Crossing 2304-2324 College Way, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 ~ Placer.ai City Total Visitors Fergus Falls 39.4K (11.14%) Fergus Falls 28.1K (7.97%) Fergus Falls 20.7K (5.86%) Perham 20.1 K (5.7%) Perham 20.1 K (5.7%) Fergus Falls 19.8K (5.59%) Rothsay 19.2K (5.42%) Fergus Falls 17.4K (4.92%) Fergus Falls 17K (4.82%) Fergus Falls 14.6K (4.13%) 31/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 10 / 12 I Otter Tail County• Minnesota Rank Name Taco Bell 11 615 Frontier Dr, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 12 Westridge Mall 2001 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Marathon Full Site 13 22438 Old 59 Rd, Pelican Rapids, MN 56572 14 The Home Depot 2025 Lincoln Avenue West, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Astera Health 15 421 11th St Nw, Wadena, MN 56482 Cenex Full Site 16 120 S Broadway, Pelican Rapids, MN 56572 Cenex 17 2605 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 McDonald's 18 100Judd St, Perham, MN 56573 Aldi 19 1802 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Cenex Full Site 20 141 N Broadway Ave, New York Mills, MN 56567 Category: All Categories I In Market Only I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) e Placer.ai City Total Visitors Fergus Falls 14.3K (4.03%) Fergus Falls 14.1K (3.99%) Pelican Rapids 13.6K (3.84%) Fergus Falls 13.4K (3.79%) Wadena 13K (3.68%) Pelican Rapids 12.8K (3.64%) Fergus Falls 12.6K (3.57%) Perham 11 .8K (3.35%) Fergus Falls 11.6K (3.27%) New York Mills 11.3K (3.21 %) ~ Placer.ai 32/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 11 / 12 Daily Time Spent In Market I Otter Tail County· Minnesota 300K 250K 200K .'!'.l ·u; 150K 5 lOOK SOK 0 10 -30min 30 -60min Visits I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) ® Placer.ai Avg. Stay Median 5 ... I 475 min 242 min 1-2 hrs 2 -4 hrs 4 -6 hrs 6 -9 hrs 9 -12 hrs 12 -24 hrs ® Placer.ai 33/55 Market Visitors Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 12 / 12 ~ 2 ·u; 5 0 ~ 0 Travel by Distance I Otter Tail County· Minnesota 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% -- 0-0.3mi 0.5 -0.7 mi 1-2 mi Home Location I % of Visitors I Min Visits: 1 I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) e Placer.ai -■ -3-Smi 7-lOmi 30-50mi 100-250mi ® Placer.ai 34/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 1 / 9 Workforce Metrics I Otter Tail County· Minnesota Employees % Inbound Commuters Median Salary (STI: Workplace 2024) Compared to: 1 Year Ago I Jan 1st, 2026-Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) @ Placer.ai 27.9K (-3.8% YOY) 16.4% $51.3K (+4.2% vs. 2023) Inbound Commuter Visits 153.1 K (+8.9% YOY) % White Collar Employees (STI: Workplace 2024) 36.9% (-0.1% vs. 2023) Total# of Businesses (STI: Workplace 2024) 1.9K (+1 .3% vs. 2023) @Placer.ai 35/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 2 / 9 Employee Visits Trend I Otter Tail County· Minnesota 25K 20K 15K 10K SK 0 Jan 01 Jan 06 Jan 11 Jan 16 Jan 21 Jan 26 Jan 31 Feb 05 Feb 10 Feb 15 Feb 20 Feb 25 Mar 02 Mar 07 Mar 12 Mar 17 Mar 22 Mar 27 • All Employees • Inbound Commuters Daily I Visits I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) e Placer.ai e Placer.ai 36/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 3 / 9 - Employee Origins Stanton ,.,, NORTH DAKO TA Center 83 New Rockford Carri0ngton Bismarck t . ,, it Jamestown Valley City # Employees 6 -92.4 92.4 -783.6 ■ 783.6 - 3.1 K ■ 3.1K-8.6K SOUTH DAKOTA Ashley Ellendale I • h Aberdeen pS~IC ,. Redfield e Placer.ai Grand Forks . Crookston \ ., j 0 Be~son '"" Milbank . Watertown Montevideo ✓ .. t.l ... <-. .., , Virg_inia Grand 0Rapids Aitkin ij; Mora Milaca Sa~hlud • Camb.ridge 1 ~-~ ~ Willmar Litchfield Elk River Buffalo ~ ~ ~ .... < ~ Grand Marais . I L- Two Harbors Duluth . Ashland f\ Ha~ard • Barron Phi(lips Lady~mith 0 Medford Eau Claire ~ Rhin Merrill Wausc Glencoe Sha~opee l J so mi Do~ \A/in • 1 © Mapbox © OpetV'i! 37/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 4 / 9 Zip Codes Employees (% of Total) 56537 8.6K (31%) Fergus Falls, MN 56573 2.9K (10.6%) Perham, MN 56572 1.9K (6.8%) Pelican Rapids, MN 56567 1.4K (5.2%) New York Mills, MN 56515 1.1K (3.9%) Battle Lake, MN 56551 1 K (3.7%) Henning, MN 56586 842 (3%) Underwood, MN e Placer.ai 38/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 5 / 9 Zip Codes Employees (% of Total) 56361 652 (2.3%) Parkers Prairie, MN 56482 641 (2.3%) Wadena, MN 56571 598 (2.1%) Ottertail, MN 56528 580 (2.1%) Dent, MN 56534 568 (2%) Erhard, MN e Placer.ai 39/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 6 / 9 Zip Codes Employees (% of Total) 56544 509 (1.8%) Frazee, MN 56501 506 (1.8%) Detroit Lakes, MN 56324 425 (1.5%) Dalton, MN 56587 391 (1.4%) Vergas, MN 56579 357 (1.3%) Rothsay, MN e Placer.ai 40/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 7 / 9 Zip Codes 56527 Deer Creek, MN 56576 Richville, MN 56308 Alexandria, MN Employees (% of Total) 317 (1.1%) 297 (1.1%) 247 (0.9%) Employees I * Showing data for top 20 Zip Codes of of this market I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) @ Placer.ai @Placer.ai 41/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 8 / 9e Placer.ai Employees' Top Places I Otter Tail County • Minnesota Rank Name Walmart 3300 Mn-210, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 McDonald's 2 2085 College Way, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Fleet Farm 3 2002 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 4 Westridge Mall 2001 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Fall s, MN 56537 Aldi 5 1802 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Service Food Market 6 321 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Oasis Travel Plaza Full Site 7 43937 Ft Thunder Rd, Perham, MN 56573 Cenex Full Site 8 43869 Fort Thunder Rd, Perham, MN 56573 9 The Home Depot 2025 Lincoln Avenue West, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 10 Walgreens 326 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Category: All Categories I In Market Only I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) City Total Employees Fergus Falls 12.8K (46.01 %) Fergus Falls 8.3K (29.72%) Fergus Falls 8K (28.53%) Fergus Falls 7.7K (27.45%) Fergus Falls 7.6K (27.23%) Fergus Falls 6.9K (24.7%) Perham 6.6K (23.58%) Perham 6.6K (23.58%) Fergus Falls 6.4K (22.93%) Fergus Falls 6.2K (22.32%) e Placer.ai 42/55 Market Workforce Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026 2026 Placer Labs, Inc. | More insights at placer.ai 9 / 9 ~ Q) s E E 0 u "O C :J 0 .0 E 0 ~ 0 Commute by Distance I Otter Tail County· Minnesota 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% 1111 0-0.3mi -0.3-0.5 mi 1111 -0.5-0.7mi 0.7-lmi 1-2mi Home Location I % of Visitors I Min Visits: 1 I Jan 1st, 2026 -Mar 31st, 2026 Data provided by Placer Labs Inc. (www.placer.ai) ® Placer.ai - -2 -3 mi 3-5mi 5-7mi 7-lOmi 10 -30mi 30-50mi 50+mi ® Placer.ai 43/55 Otter Tail County Workforce & Employment Data -unemployment Rate -Labor Force -Employment -4-Projected Labor Force 32,000 31,194 31,031 31,000 30,705 4.4 30,000 29,909 Labor Force, 29 000 Employment & Jobs ' 2.9 ----- 28,000 ---------------- 27,000 26,000 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 31,007 2 ,5 4 • 2025 6 5 4 3 Unemployment Rate(%) 2 1 0 44/55 Housing Growth & Development Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: April 21, 2026 @ 1pm Committee members: Dena Johnson (in person), Dave Schornack (in person), Jeff Ackerson (in person) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. 1209 South Vine, Fergus Falls a. Board of Commissioners was supportive of moving forward with the purchase of the property at a lower price than what was proposed. b. Application to the state is pending approval, but deed title transfer is expected to happen mid-May c. Received bids for cleaning out personal items from the house and got on the vendor’s schedule d. Staff is selecting siding colors and finishes to streamline the bidding process. Interested contractors will have one more opportunity to walk through the house before bidding process begins. 2. Pinewood Estates updates a. First lot that was sold is now listed for sale again. Committee discussed buy back provisions for future purchases and interest in the lot from housing partner organization. 3. Housing staff discussion a. Discussion about cost neutral new position to support Housing Project Manager with public housing maintenance and project management Next meeting: Monday, May 11, 2026 @ 1pm 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 45/55 Business Development Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: March 19 @ 1pm Committee members: Sean Sullivan (in person), Val Martin (virtual), Heidi Samuelson (virtual) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. Small Business Week strategy a. National Small Business Week 2026 will take place May 3-9. b. The Board of Commissioners is expected to adopt a proclamation at their April 28 meeting and a press release will be distributed to local media following the meeting. c. Email newsletter was distributed mid-April with the business resource summary. d. Staff is working on social media and Chamber/partner outreach. 2. Review Community Growth Partnership Grant application from the City of Pelican Rapids a. City of Pelican Rapids is requesting $25,000 for their façade improvement program. b. The façade improvement program was funded in 2025 with Community Growth Partnership Grant funds and saw approximately five successful projects in downtown Pelican Rapids. The City also leveraged Small Cities Development Program funds to support more commercial rehab and improvements. c. Committee was supportive of the application and recommended bringing it to the full board for approval. They also requested an updated program report detailing the funded projects across the county and discussed that this could be a project for our summer intern. 3. Discussion of work plan and projects for summer intern a. College student intern will be joining the Community Development and Housing team beginning May 18. b. Priority projects could include: i. Refreshing the business resource summary with up-to-date program information ii. Developing an outreach strategy to leverage local community/business groups iii. Supporting Empowered Worker Program impact analysis, communication efforts, and resident recruitment project Next meeting: May 21 at 1pm 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 46/55 OTTER TAIL COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION May 6, 2026 BOARD MEETING DATE AGENDA ITEM #5A Amy Baldwin 4/30/2025 REQUESTOR’S SIGNATURE/DATE BOARD ACTION REQUESTED Authorize approval of the grant request and direct staff to prepare necessary agreement with the Pelican Rapids for signature PROPOSED REQUEST/JUSTIFICATION An application has been submitted for the CDA’s Community Growth Partnership Grant Program from the City of Pelican Rapids. Following is a summary of the application; attached is the application. • City of Pelican Rapids – Business Façade Improvement Program o Project overview: The City is seeking a grant in the amount $25,000 to further support the Business Façade Improvement Program available to businesses in the City to enhance their store fronts. The funds previously awarded to the City have all been leveraged to support projects. Matching funds for this request would be provided by the Pelican Rapids EDA. o Requested amount: $25,000 o No changes are being proposed to the existing program guidelines. 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 included in the program guidelines is a permitted use of the funds. The application was reviewed by the Business Development Committee, who provided a recommendation to approve the application. PREVIOUS ACTION ON REQUEST/OTHER PARTIES ADVISED: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DATE: Amy Baldwin 4/30/2026 ATTACHMENT LIST: a. Application b. City Council Resolution c. Program Guidelines FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: TBD BUDGETED: X YES NO FUNDING: Community Growth Partnership Program Funds COMMENTS 47/55 OTTER TAIL COUNTY - MINNESOTA Community Growth Partnership Grant Application GENERAL INFORMATION Project Name: Project Type: Planning Activity Affordable Housing Redevelopment Commercial Rehabilitation Public Infrastructure Applicant City/Township: City/Township Address: Application Contact: Application Contact Email Address: Phone Number: Project Contact (if different): Project Contact Email Address: Phone Number: Authorized City/Township Official(s) for Execution of Contract (name and title): How much funding is being requested? $ Please provide a brief statement summarizing the proposal that will be reviewed as part of the approval process. Include in the summary where this project is in the process (i.e., City process, site control, etc.). 218-998-8730 ® □ □ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY □ □ □ OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Government Services Center 520 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov 48/55 COMMERCIAL REHABILITATION GRANT QUESTIONS 1. Is the application for a locally administered rehab program or private commercial rehab project? Locally administered rehab program Private commercial rehab project 2. If a locally administered program: 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. 3. If a private commercial rehab project: Describe the rehabilitation project for which funds are being requested. Describe the work planned. Please attach estimates for the proposed project. □ 218-998-8730 ® COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY □ OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Government Services Center 520 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov 49/55 4. Describe how the proposed program/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. 5. Leverage: List all sources and uses of funding for the Commercial Rehabilitation request. Source of Funds Amount Committed Pending $ $ $ $ Total: $ Itemized Use of Funds/Expenses Amount Funding Source $ $ $ $ Total: $ 218-998-8730 ® COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Government Services Center 520 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov 50/55 RESOLUTION 2026-05 CITY OF PELICAN RAPIDS, MINNESOTA REQUIRED RESOLUTION PROVISIONS FOR OTTER TAIL COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY COMMUNITY GROWTH PARTNERSHIP GRANT PROGRAM WHEREAS, the City/Township of Pelican Rapids, MN has identified and reviewed a proposed project within the City/Township that meets the Otter Tail County Community Development Agency (CDA) Community Growth Partnership Grant program's purposes and criteria; and WHEREAS, the City has the capability and capacity to ensure the proposed project be completed and administered within the Community Growth Partnership Grant program guidelines; and WHEREAS, the City has the legal authority to apply for financial assistance; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City/Township of Pelican Rapids approves the application for funding from the Otter Tail County CDA Community Growth Partnership Grant program. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon approval of its application by the Otter Tail County CDA, Brent Frazier, The Mayor of The City of Pelican Rapids, is hereby authorized to execute such agreements as are necessary to receive and use the funding for the proposed project. Adopted by the council on this 10th day of March, 2026. ~ ~ Mayor n City Clerk-Treasurer 51/55 (5,000.00) Ottertail Lodge 284 M son's PoQI I (5,,000.00I Park Region (S,000,00) Do Drop Inn (51000,00I Reb I Sh d (5,,000.00l Retlr m n Advisory rvlc:es (5,,000,00I Riverview Place (S100Cl,OO) oiti rg ln::;~r nc 52/55 Pelican Rapids Economic Development Authority (EDA) Business Façade Improvement Program Purpose: The purpose of the Business Façade Improvement Grant Program is to establish a fund to assist building owners with the implementation of the vision for Pelican Rapids, which is to encourage continuation of a viable town 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 town 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. This program is intended to be used by the greater business community of Pelican Rapids. Duration: Matching grants (forgivable loans) may be made under these policies to the extent funds are available, as allocated to the fund by the Pelican Rapids Economic Development Authority. Eligible Applicants: Applicants may include building owners and tenants of businesses in Pelican Rapids. Applicants may be individual owners, partnerships, corporations, tenant operators or contract for deed purchasers of property within Pelican Rapids. 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 Pelican Rapids 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. 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 replacement/repair, awnings and signs, exterior steps/entrances, landscaping and parking. Interior renovations may be approved on a case-by-case basis. Number of Grants: Each applicant is generally eligible for one matching grant per calendar year; exceptions to be made by the Pelican Rapids EDA and City Council. Size of Grant: To the extent funds are available, the EDA may offer up to five $5,000 matching grants for projects with a total cost of at least $10,000. Dollar amounts are subject to change and can be reallocated depending on the amount budgeted and project proposed. Design Standards: All projects must meet the criteria identified in the Pelican Rapids Zoning Ordinances and approved by the Zoning Administrator. Project 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. 53/55 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 of 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 CEDA representative, then sent to the 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 Pelican Rapids City Council. If the project is not started or completed within the allocated time frame a written notice to the City of Pelican Rapids EDA shall be provided as to the reasons for 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 Pelican Rapids 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 Pelican Rapids EDA. If the borrower is to sell the building prior to 5 years after the disbursement date, the loan amount will be forgiven 20% for each year since the disbursement. If it is within the first year, funds will be due, unless the borrower sold to an eligible operating entity as determined by the City of Pelican Rapids. 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 façade improvement program may contact the CEDA representative. 54/55 DATE: April 30, 2026 TO: CDA Board of Directors FROM: Amy Baldwin, Executive Director Tanya Westra, Housing Program Supervisor SUBJECT: 1209 Vine Street, Fergus Falls, MN Project Update On April 14, 2026, the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners voted in favor of selling the property to the CDA for $4,372.18. Required documents have been submitted to the State of Minnesota by the County Recorder’s Office. Once the deed has been received, work will begin at the property. Two bids were received to clean out the property as there are significant household items remaining in the home; this also includes the removal of a small, dilapidated storage shed on the property. The lowest bid was from Kildal Construction LLC in the amount of $3,500. This work has been tentatively scheduled for the week of May 18th pending receipt of the deed from the State of Minnesota and the CDA obtaining title to the property. Additionally, two bids have been obtained for the kitchen. Both bids include cabinets, countertop, sink, faucet, hardware and installation. • Cornerstone Cabinets $16,085.00 • Fergus Home & Hardware $20,603.10 Bid specifications for general contracting work will be posted publicly on May 4th and due at noon on May 26th. It is anticipated that bids for this work will be brought to the board for action at its June meeting. 218-998-8730 @ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & HOUSING OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER LIVE YOUR best life HERE. Government Services Center 500 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov 55/55