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Community Development Agency - CDA-Packet-08-05-2026 Supporting Documents - 08/05/2026
OTTER TAIL COUNTY – MINNESOTA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA Government Services Center, Otter Tail Lake Room 515 West Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN August 5, 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. July 8, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes B. June 2026 Financial Reports 4. Reports and Presentations A. Director Status Report B. Committee Reports Housing and Development Workforce Support and Digital Equity Business Development (did not meet) C. ‘On the Map’ Report Placer.ai report review D. Board Member Updates 5. Regular Business A. Resolution Approving Special Benefit Levy and Requesting a General Levy Appropriation for Taxes Payable 2027 6. Discussion and Communications A. Project Updates: a. Vine Street b. Westridge Mall B. Other Communications C. Upcoming Meetings: a. Wednesday, September 2 at 11:00 am, Otter Tail Lake Room, Government Services Center with HRA Board meeting beginning at 12:45 pm 7. Adjourn 1/22 2/22 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY Government Services Center, County Board Room 515 W Fir Ave, Fergus Falls MN 56537 July 8, 2026 Call to Order The Otter Tail County Community Development Agency convened at 11:00 am, Wednesday, July 8, 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 Joined at 11:15 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 Bernstetter, Project Manager x Erik Osberg, Rural Rebound Initiative Coordinator x Paige Carlson, Project Manager x Aann Christopherson, HRA Accountant x Ava Hastings, Intern x Paula Grunewald, HRA Administrative Assistant x Others: none 2. Approval of Agenda Approval of Agenda motion was made by Sean Sullivan, second by Dena Johnson, and unanimously carried to approve as presented with the addition of 5C - Application to Otter Tail County Opioid Settlement Fund and that 5A and 5B were reversed from the agenda to the packet. 3. Approval of Consent Agenda Motion by Dena Johnson, second by Val Martin to approve the Consent Agenda. Motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Sean Sulliven posed a question on a financial report and Amy Baldwin, CDA Director answered his question. 4. Reports and Presentations A/B. Director’s Status Report/ Committee Reports City of Fergus Falls will be hosting a housing developer engagement event with a focus on redevelopment and greenfield opportunities on City and Port Authority owned properties. 3/22 OTTERTAIL COUNTY -MINNESOTA Workforce o Referrals to the Empowered Work Program opened to internal county staff on July 1. o Closeout of the Drive for 5 Grant. o Quarterly workforce convening was held with 35 people attending. Childcare o PioneerCare and Vergas Childcare were not awarded Deed Child Care Economic Development Grants. $6.4 M in applications were applied for with $1.4M funds available. Community Growth Partnership Grant Program overview from 2019-2026 including focus areas, program snapshot and community examples in Vergas and Battle Lake. These grants help turn local vision into visible progress. Betsy Roder joined the meeting at 11:15 pm. C. On the Map Report Sarah Bernstetter, Program Manager reported The U of M partnership with OTLCA will continue. An upcoming Meet and Greet is planned. 4th of July Placer.ai report comparing 2025 to 2026 was presented. D. Board Member Updates Val Martin – Phelps Mill Festival Betsy Roder – New York Mills Fish House Festival and Lundmania Dena Johnson o Pelican Fest o Potential of Pelican Rapids organizations joining together to make one larger group Sean Sullivan – Fergus Falls recently held Fergus Falls Air Show 5. Regular Business Items A. Community Growth Partnership Grant Application: Battle Lake Housing Study The City of Battle Lake is seeking a grant in the amount of $5,000 to support the completion of a housing study by CEDA. The study would be completed by the end of 2026; Housing Committee recommends approval. Motion by Dena Johnson, second by Sean Sullivan, to approve the grant in the amount of $5,000 and direct staff to prepare necessary grant documents. Roll call vote was held with Val Martin abstaining and yeas from the rest of the Commissioners. Motion passed unanimously. B. Community Growth Partnership Grant Application: Battle Lake Business Improvement Program The City of Battle Lake is asking for matching funds for commercial rehabilitation. The program will provide up to a $5,000 match grant to qualified businesses to make visible changes including brick replacement and repair, window and door replacement/repair, awnings and signs, exterior steps/entrances, parking, siding, painting, and landscaping. The requested grant amount is $15,000. The Business Development Committee recommends approval. Motion by Kurt Mortenson, second by Betsy Roder to approve and direct staff to prepare necessary grant documents. Roll call vote was held with Val Martin abstaining and yeas from the rest of the Commissioners. Motion passed unanimously. C.Application to Otter Tail County Opioid Settlement Fund Otter Tail County is the recipient of the opioid settlement funds that are a result of a large-scale agreement with pharmaceutical distributors and pharmacies. Approximately $3.1 million will be received by the County over an 18-year period. Funds will be awarded to projects through a series of competitive grant rounds. At this time, the focus is ‘Primary Prevention – emphasis on youth’. Staff is asking for support from the Board to submit an application, requesting $20,000 to support the establishment of a 4/22 Countywide Early Childhood Fund. Motion by Val Martin, second by Sean Sullivan to direct staff to move forward with the application. Roll call vote was held with motion passing unanimously. 6. Discussion and Communications A. Workforce Strategy Document B. Project Updates Vine Street Westridge Mall C. 2027 CDA Budget/Priorities D. Other Communications – none E.Upcoming meeting: Wednesday, Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11:00 am, Otter Tail Lake Room, Government Services Center with HRA Board meeting at 12:45 pm. 7. Adjourned 5/22 PctReportCode1 4:07:32PM csteinbach 06/2026 06/2026Cash 8% 06/2026War# 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 6/23/2026 90.00 307862 6/3/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 201794 5/21/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 201795 6/3/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 307859 5/11/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 307859 6/3/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 307860 6/3/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 307861 5/19/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 307862 5/11/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 307858 5/11/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 307861 6/3/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 201794 6/3/26 CDA - PER DIEM COM 6/23/2026 90.00 307860 5/21/26 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 1,975.00 12,000 25.00Registration Fees 25.00 COM 6/9/2026 25.00 201455 18819 CHAMBER EVENT TICKET 23-705-000-0000-6266 1,400.00 01,400 0.00Audit Cost 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6290 184,574.78 47350,000 165,425.22Contracted Services.165,425.22 J/E 6/30/2026 165,425.226MO CDA CONTRACTED SERVICES 23-705-000-0000-6330 3,241.90 73,500 258.10Mileage258.10 COM 6/23/2026 58.00 307862 6/3/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/23/2026 58.00 201794 6/3/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/23/2026 29.00 307860 6/3/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/23/2026 27.55 307859 6/3/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/23/2026 58.00 307862 5/11/26 CDA - MILEAGE COM 6/23/2026 27.55 307859 5/11/26 CDA - MILEAGE 23-705-000-0000-6331 3,000.00 03,000 0.00Travel Expenses 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6333 4,918.00 25,000 82.00Meeting/Event Costs 82.00 COM 6/23/2026 82.00 201696 6/3/26 LUNCHES FO BOARD MTG 6/3/26 23-705-000-0000-6355 4,000.00 04,000 0.00Liability Insurance 0.00 23-705-000-0000-6822 175,000.00 13200,000 25,000.00Community Growth Partnership Grant 25,000.00 AUD 6/26/2026 25,000.00 307863 2026-03 CDA GRANT REIMBURSEMENT 23-705-000-7001-6828 5,000.00 05,000 0.00Site Development (TIF)0.00 ...32191,870.32 191,870.32595,900.00 404,029.68 Page 2 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference06/2026 - 06/2026 PROGRAM 7/6/2026 000 Actual ForType2026 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE - DETAIL MTD Otter Tail County Auditor 6/22 EAt PctReportCode1 4:07:32PM csteinbach 06/2026 06/2026Cash 8% 06/2026War# 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 23-706-807-0000-6685 87,049.92 0087,049.92Remodeling Expenses 87,049.92 AUD 6/12/2026 1,750.00 201588 4/30/26 JUNK REMOVAL @ 1209 S VINE ST AUD 6/18/2026 80,940.00 201607 3558 START OF PROJECT @ 1209 S VINE COM 6/23/2026 4,359.92 201706 10755 APPLIANCES FOR 1209 S VINE 23-706-807-0000-6825 24,000.00 024,000 0.00Down Payment Assistance 0.00 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 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 32191,870.32 191,870.32595,900.00 404,029.68 ...00.00120,500.00 120,500.00 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 3387,049.92 87,049.92264,000.00 176,950.08 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 2387,049.92 87,049.92384,500.00 297,450.08 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 28278,920.24 278,920.24980,400.00 701,479.76 28278,920.24 278,920.24980,400.00 701,479.76 Page 3 Report For: ToReport Basis:Percent of Year: Actual For Tran Date Bdgt - Act Difference06/2026 - 06/2026 DEPT PROGRAM - PROGRAM DEPT FUND Final Totals 19 Accounts 7/6/2026 705 000 807 706 23 Actual ForType2026 BUDGET EXPENDITURE GUIDELINE - DETAIL MTD Otter Tail County Auditor 7/22 EAt Pct 23 Accounts 4:07:43PM csteinbach 01/2026 06/2026Cash 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 06/2026 Copyright 2010-2025 Integrated Financial Systems 23 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 705 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 000 ... 6140 PER DIEM 5,610.00 531,080.00 6,390.00 6240 PUBLISHING & ADVERTISING 5,000.00 00.00 0.00 6241 MEMBERSHIP DUES 775.00 850.00 4,225.00 6242 REGISTRATION FEES 1,185.00 4125.00 815.00 6266 AUDIT COST 383.00 730.00 1,017.00 6290 CONTRACTED SERVICES.184,574.78 47165,425.22 165,425.22 6330 MILEAGE 1,781.57 49258.10 1,718.43 6331 TRAVEL EXPENSES 2,021.88 330.00 978.12 6333 MEETING/EVENT COSTS 4,528.94 982.00 471.06 6355 LIABILITY INSURANCE 323.00 1080.00 4,323.00 6369 MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES 265,253.20 00.00 265,253.20 6822 COMMUNITY GROWTH PARTNERSHIP GRANT 175,000.00 1325,000.00 25,000.00 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 17,939.00 100.00 2,061.00 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 6670 SITE ACQUISITION 4,372.18 00.00 4,372.18 6685 REMODELING EXPENSES 87,111.52 087,049.92 87,111.52 6825 DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE 8,880.00 1370.00 32,880.00 6830 HOUSING REHABILITATION 32,150.88 200.00 7,849.12 6832 LOAN ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 199,954.00 00.00 46.00 ...475,984.97 80191,870.32 119,915.03 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM 475,984.97 80191,870.32 119,915.03595,900.00 ...2,610.42 20.00 117,889.58 SPECIAL ALLOCATION HOUSING PROGRAM 132,258.82 5087,049.92 131,741.18 NON SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY PROGRAMMING 134,869.24 3587,049.92 249,630.76384,500.00 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 980,400.00 610,854.21 62278,920.24 369,545.79 62 278,920.24 610,854.21 980,400.00 369,545.79 Page 2 Report For: ToReport Basis: FUND Percent of Year: Actual For Account Description Actual For BDGT - ACT Difference01/2026 - 06/2026 - - - TOTAL TOTAL - TOTAL - - - TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL Final Totals 7/6/2026 50 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 0.00 0.00 24,000.00 40,000.00 200,000.00 595,900.00 120,500.00 264,000.00 2026 BUDGET Otter Tail County Auditor 8/22 DATE: July 29, 2026 TO: CDA Board of Directors FROM: Amy Baldwin, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Director Status Report Housing Growth Initiative / The Big Build: Closed on a lot in Pinewood Estates The County Board approved a request from the City of Rothsay to partner on a local Property Tax Rebate Program for new housing development. Commissioner Sullivan and staff participated in the City of Fergus Falls housing developer engagement event on July 22. There were a series of roundtables focused on redevelopment and greenfield opportunities on City and Port Authority owned properties. Workforce Support Strategy / OTC Works: An application to support the Empowered Worker Program was submitted to the MN Department of Human Services, to support individuals interested in obtaining a credential to become a Peer Support Specialist. Quarterly workforce convening was held on Tuesday, July 7 with good attendance. The Convening focused on the OTC Works strategy refresh and an introduction to Paige, Workforce Project Manager. Child Care: Children’s Corner has hired a new executive director and has added a Perham representative to its board. Business Development: Quarterly business development newsletter was distributed to 1,221 recipients with highlights on cost of living data, Placer.ai report on retail leakage, customer service training, and city commercial rehab grant resources. (attached) Placer.ai Retail Leakage report shows business categories that residents are leaving the county to make purchases. This report provides useful economic development and business recruitment information for our communities. Retail Leakage Residents - Otter Tail - 2026-01- 01 - 2026-06-30 The business development marketing campaign launched on June 30 to increase awareness of business resources offered by the County and partners. Three articles and corresponding social media posts and Chamber news posts have been distributed to date. Overall, there have been 81 views of the Business & Development landing page on the website since the campaign launched, representing a 59% increase from the previous period. 9/22 > > > > > > > > > 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 Attachment: • Business Development Newsletter Miscellaneous: Staff continue to meet with city staff for individualized community development check-ins to discuss current projects and future opportunities where the CDA can be additive and supportive. Third quarter meetings are being scheduled. 10/22 Content Topic Website article Website article Social media Social media views engagements p ost views post engagements Business 35 15 1,460 15 resources Al 47 44 1,428 14 Succession 25 6 779 17 planning > 1 Sarah Bernstetter From:Sarah Bernstetter <sbernstetter@ottertailcounty.gov> Sent:Thursday, July 16, 2026 9:07 AM To:Sarah Bernstetter Subject:Otter Tail County Business Update | July 2026 July 2026 County Update 11/22 news from COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY 2 Cost of Living in OTC Household incomes in Otter Tail County and across Minnesota have grown significantly since 2018, with many of the strongest gains occurring in Greater Minnesota. In most counties, income growth has kept pace with, the rising cost of living, making many communities more affordable than they were just a few years ago. By 2024, median household incomes in many Greater Minnesota counties covered 90% or more of the estimated cost of living, compared to just 60% to 80% in 2018. While incomes remain lower than in the Twin Cities, lower housing and everyday living costs continue to make Greater Minnesota an affordable and attractive place to live, work, and invest 12/22 -.._.- COST 0 -F LIVING CQMPARISON OTTER TAIL COUNTY Average Yea rly Cost $82,227 AVERAGE MONTHLY COSTS .---... Housing $1,350 Food $1,249 Health Care $654 Transport $1,164 4' ~ Child Care $1,042 Taxes $819 lnfographlc prepared by Ott&r Tall Lakes Coumry METRO AREA Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, Washington Average Yearly Cost $119,724 AVERAGE MONTHLY COSTS @ Housing $2,338 Food $1 ,389 Health Care $749 Transport $1 ,013 Child Care $2,016 Taxes $1 ,649 a Co~l or Living. Mlnnesote DEED. Ubof Market Information. 2025 3 Find more cost of living information>> Read more about income and cost of living changes>> Business Spotlight Retail Leakage for Otter Tail County Otter Tail County's retail leakage analysis shows where residents are leaving the county to make purchases, highlighting opportunities for business growth and expansion. The largest areas of retail leakage include grocery stores, general merchandise stores, and full-service restaurants, suggesting there is strong local demand that is not currently being met. These findings can help communities, developers, and business owners identify gaps in the local market, recruit new businesses, and support the expansion of existing ones. By understanding where consumer spending is leaving the county, communities can make more informed economic development decisions and work to keep more retail dollars local. Learn more about the county's retail leakage>> *data provided by Placer.ai 13/22 Be".'idji Grand 0Rapid City --ij; _ _J_ _ _, Park ~pids De kes I I -Hhoton rgus Falls f . MINNESOTA little Falls • .Ale dria c, ----------Elk River 4 Business Resources Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Resources The West Central Minnesota SBDC offers free, confidential one-on-one consulting for entrepreneurs and business owners at every stage of business. Consultants provide guidance on business planning, financing, marketing, financial management, operations, and business growth, while also connecting clients with additional resources and training opportunities. Whether you're starting a business, expanding, or planning for the future, the SBDC provides practical tools and personalized support to help you succeed. SBDC guidance gives you tools for today and skills for life. Click here to learn more>> Training Opportunities Online Customer Service Training & Certificate 14/22 5 Investing in employee training is one of the easiest ways to improve customer service and strengthen your business. Minnesota residents can take a free, self-paced online customer service training program from University of MN extension. The mobile-friendly course can be completed on an employee's own schedule and covers essential customer service skills. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate of completion and a LinkedIn badge, helping businesses build a stronger, more confident team. Enroll here>> Partner Update SBDC Borrower Success Program The Borrower Success Program helps small business owners prepare for funding, understand lender expectations, and build stronger financial habits before and after receiving a loan. Through the West Central Minnesota SBDC, businesses can get support with financial documents, projections, cash flow, and planning so they feel more confident working with banks and other funding sources. This program is a helpful resource for entrepreneurs looking to grow, improve operations, or strengthen their business for long-term success. Find more information here>> 15/22 6 Featured Resources For Nonprofits: Board Governance Training The Board Member’s Guide to Good Governance developed and offered by the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits is a virtual training series designed to help board members better understand their roles and responsibilities. July 16: Board Legal and HR Duties July 23: Board Financial Duties July 30: Board Inclusion Strategies For Businesses: Grants or Loans in Your City Otter Tail County businesses can access grants, loans, and financing programs for commercial rehabilitation, septic system updates, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and local business growth. Business owners should check with their city to learn what programs may be available. Find resources here>> For Partners: LOIS Property Listing LOIS Location One is a property listings and data platform that helps businesses, site selectors, and community partners find available commercial and industrial properties. The platform provides searchable property information, location data, and community details to support business attraction, expansion, and development opportunities. Explore LOIS>> 16/22 • 7 Stay Up to Date There are great initiatives and projects underway around Otter Tail County. Share this newsletter with someone in your network and invite them to subscribe. If you have information about efforts in your area that you would like to share, please submit to cda@ottertailcounty.gov for inclusion in an upcoming newsletter. We also invite you to share the website notification center at ottertailcounty.gov/notification- center/ to encourage further sharing of information with the public. People can sign up for specific notifications of interest and they will receive an email when an event or related news occurs. Copyright © 2025 Otter Tail County Community Development Agency, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: Otter Tail County Community Development Agency 520 W. Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Unsubscribe from this list. This email was sent on behalf of Otter Tail Lakes Country Association located at 520 Fir Avenue West, Fergus Falls, MN 56537. To unsubscribe click here. If you have questions or comments concerning this email contact Otter Tail Lakes Country Association at info@ottertailcountry.com. 17/22 Housing Growth & Development Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: July 13, 2026 @ 1pm Committee members: Dave Schornack (in person), Dena Johnson (virtual), Jeff Ackerson (virtual) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. Vine Street rehab project updates a. Start siding prep the week of July 13 and windows installation the week of July 20 2. Pinewood Estates updates a. Received a full price offer of $20,000 for one of the remaining lots. Staff will execute agreements and close by the end of July b. Discussion regarding continued marketing of remaining lots 3. Discuss Fergus Falls Norgren Property housing development a. Property located on the north side of Fergus Falls was a former auto salvage lot and the Fergus Falls Port Authority has owned it since the 1990s b. City of Fergus Falls and interested developer have approached the County looking for support in a project leadership role to advance housing development c. Engineering, platting, and design quotes are being sought to explore opportunities Next meeting: Monday, August 10, 2026 @ 1pm 18/22 218-998-8060 ® COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OTTER TAIL COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER LIVE YOUR best life HERE. Government Services Center 520 West Fir Avenue Fergus Falls, MN 56537 @ ottertailcounty.gov Workforce Support & Digital Equity Committee Meeting Notes Date/Time: July 21 @ 3:00pm Committee members: Kurt Mortenson (in person), Bob Schempp (in person), Betsy Roder (virtual) Outline of key actions discussed: 1. Empowered Worker Program update a. Workforce Project Manager has met with several employers for introductory meetings including agriculture employers who have an interest in job shadowing and other program support for Empowered Worker b. The program opened to internal referrals on July 1. No referrals have been received as of July 21, but Paige is meeting with human services teams to share information about updates to the program. c. Committee discussed and provided feedback on including cannabis growing as an eligible career pathway under the agricultural industry focus. Reviewed available certification programs and recommended seeking approval from DEED grant manager before pursuing further. d. Final reporting to close out the Drive for 5 Grant was submitted by staff. Satisfactory outcome metrics were highlighted as well as anecdotal success stories. e. Return on Investment analysis of the program is underway with another year of employment and participant data to look at. 2. Review 2025 cost of living data and infographic 3. Digital equity update a. Amy will be presenting at the Minnesota Broadband Task Force meeting in September to share the County’s broadband efforts and successes as an example from Greater MN. 4. Review Child Care Emergency Fund application a. The Child Care Emergency Fund provides grants to child care providers required to make physical improvements to their program to remain compliant with licensing. b. Provider requested $500 to support repairs to her deck required for licensing. c. Committee approved the application request. Next meeting: Tuesday, August 18 at 3pm 19/22 218-998-8060 ® 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 RESOLUTION 2026-02 APPROVING SPECIAL BENEFIT LEVY FOR TAXES PAYABLE IN 2027 AND REQUESTING A GENERAL LEVY APPROPRIATION FOR THE OTTER TAIL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY WHEREAS, the Otter Tail County Community Development Agency (the “Agency”) is empowered by Minnesota Statute 469 to levy a Special Benefit Levy in an amount not to exceed .0185% of the estimated market value; and WHEREAS, the Agency has determined that $644,287 of the Special Benefit Levy and a $200,000 appropriation from the General Levy is necessary to effectuate the Agency’s strategic initiatives for 2027; and NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED: 1.That $644,287 of the Special Benefit Levy and $200,000 of the General Levy isrequested for the Otter Tail County CDA.2.That the Executive Director is authorized to communicate these amounts to theCounty Auditor in a timely fashion. Upon the motion of ____________________, seconded by _____________________ and passed on a ______________________ vote, the above resolution is hereby adopted by the Otter Tail County Community Development Agency Board of Commissioners. Adopted this 5th day of August, 2026. Dated: _______________________________ OTTER TAIL COUNTY CDA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Attest:________________________________ By:_______________________________ 20/22 1/26 - 6/26 FUND 23 705 DEPT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY 2024 2025 2026 2026 2027 ACTUAL ACTUAL BUDGET ACTUAL BUDGET 23-705-000-0000-5001 SETTLEMENTS (536,121)(628,615)(644,287)(377,293)(644,287) 23-705-000-0000-5004 PROPERTY TAXES - PROPERTY TAX DELQ (647)0 0 0 0 23-705-000-0000-5007 PROPERTY TAXES - CURRENT MOBILE HOME (67)0 0 0 0 23-705-000-0000-5008 PROPERTY TAXES - DELINQUENT M H (3)0 0 0 0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 5001 - 5049 TAXES (536,838)(628,615)(644,287)(377,293)(644,287) 23-705-000-0000-5278 PILT - FEDERAL (584)(632)0 0 0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 5270 - 5279 PAYMENTS IN LIEU OF TAXES (584)(632)0 0 0 23-705-000-0000-5710 INTEREST (3,546)(3,590)(4,000)(10,060)0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 5700 - 5749 INVESTMENT EARNINGS (3,546)(3,590)(4,000)(10,060)(8,000) 23-705-000-0000-5830 MISCELLANEOUS REVENUE (204,000)(482,302)0 (260,000)0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 5800 - 5849 MISCELLANEOUS REVENUE (204,000)(482,302)0 (260,000)0 23-705-000-0000-5920 SALE OF ASSETS 0 0 (40,000)0 0 23-705-000-0000-5990 OTHER REIMBURSEMENTS AND REFUNDS 0 (1,000)0 (20)0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 5900 - 5999 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES, SPECIAL, ETC 0 (1,000)(40,000)(20)0 23-705-000-0000-6140 PER DIEM 11,700 9,090 12,000 6,390 13,000 RANGE SUBTOTAL 6100 - 6149 PERSONAL SERVICES 11,700 9,090 12,000 6,390 13,000 23-705-000-0000-6240 PUBLISHING & ADVERTISING 1,780 0 5,000 0 2,500 23-705-000-0000-6241 MEMBERSHIP DUES 4,070 4,215 5,000 4,225 5,000 23-705-000-0000-6242 REGISTRATION FEES 2,033 1,645 2,000 815 2,000 23-705-000-0000-6266 AUDIT COST 1,152 1,074 1,400 1,017 1,400 23-705-000-0000-6290 CONTRACTED SERVICES 245,410 284,107 350,000 165,425 375,000 23-705-000-0000-6330 MILEAGE 2,890 2,889 3,500 1,718 3,700 23-705-000-0000-6331 TRAVEL EXPENSES 1,617 1,313 3,000 978 3,000 23-705-000-0000-6333 MEETING/EVENT COSTS 0 1,750 5,000 471 3,000 23-705-000-0000-6355 LIABILITY INSURANCE 2,804 3,127 4,000 4,323 4,500 23-705-000-0000-6369 MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES 0 468,709 0 265,253 0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 6200 - 6399 SERVICES AND CHARGES 261,756 768,829 378,900 444,225 400,100 23-705-000-0000-6822 COMMUNITY GROWTH PARTNERSHIP GRANT 159,000 45,000 200,000 25,000 200,000 23-705-000-0000-6827 BATTLE LAKE YOUTH CENTER REDEVELOPMENT 38,977 0 0 0 0 23-705-000-0000-6828 PELICAN HIGHWAY SITE DEVELOPMENT 36,936 0 0 0 0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 6800 - 6899 OTHER EXPENDITURES 234,913 45,000 200,000 25,000 200,000 23-705-000-7001-5920 SALE OF ASSETS - PINEWOOD 0 (926,979)0 0 (40,000) RANGE SUBTOTAL 5900 - 5999 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES, SPECIAL ETC 0 (926,979)0 0 (40,000) 23-705-000-7001-6828 SITE DEVELOPMENT (TIF)8,250 672,074 5,000 125 500 23-705-000-7001-6829 IMPACT FUND EXPENSES 386 1,337,671 0 244 0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 6800 - 6899 OTHER EXPENDITURES 8,636 2,009,745 5,000 369 500 DEPT TOTALS * CDA 21/22 REVENUE (744,968)(2,043,118)(688,287)(647,373)(692,287) EXPEND.517,005 2,832,664 595,900 475,984 613,600 NET (227,963)789,546 (92,387)(171,389)(78,687) 706 DEPT Non Special Benefit Levy Programming 23-706-000-0000-5710 INTEREST 0 0 0 (20,052)(25,000) RANGE SUBTOTAL 5700 - 5749 INVESTMENT EARNINGS 0 0 0 (20,052)(25,000) 23-706-000-0000-5830 MISCELLANEOUS REVENUE (212,000)(225,000)(200,000)(200,000)(200,000) RANGE SUBTOTAL 5800 - 5849 MISCELLANEOUS REVENUE (212,000)(225,000)(200,000)(200,000)(200,000) 23-706-000-0000-6240 PUBLISHING & ADVERTISING 0 0 500 0 0 23-706-000-0000-6290 CONTRACTED SERVICES 64,841 37,210 20,000 2,061 20,000 23-706-000-0000-6333 MEETING/EVENT COSTS 0 0 0 549 1,000 23-706-000-0000-6369 MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES 93 18 0 0 0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 6200 - 6399 SERVICES AND CHARGES 64,934 37,228 20,500 2,610 21,000 23-706-000-0000-6822 COMMUNITY GROWTH PARTNERSHIP GRANT 100,000 0 100,000 0 100,000 RANGE SUBTOTAL 6800 - 6899 OTHER EXPENDITURES 100,000 0 100,000 0 100,000 DEPT TOTALS * CDA REVENUE (212,000)(225,000)(200,000)(220,052)(225,000) EXPEND.164,934 37,228 120,500 2,610 121,000 NET (47,066)(187,772)(79,500)(217,442)(104,000) 23-706-807-0000-6670 SITE ACQUISITION 0 0 0 4,372 0 23-706-807-0000-6685 REMODELING EXPENSES 0 0 0 87,112 0 RANGE SUBTOTAL 6600 - 6699 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES 0 0 0 91,484 0 23-706-807-0000-6825 DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE 25,080 34,350 24,000 32,880 50,000 23-706-807-0000-6830 HOUSING REHABILITATION 57,342 24,172 40,000 7,849 40,000 23-706-807-0000-6832 LOAN ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 0 595,003 200,000 46 200,000 RANGE SUBTOTAL 6800 - 6899 OTHER EXPENDITURES 82,422 653,525 264,000 40,775 290,000 DEPT TOTALS * CDA REVENUE 0 0 0 0 0 EXPEND.82,422 653,525 264,000 132,259 290,000 NET 82,422 653,525 264,000 132,259 290,000 FUND TOTALS * CDA REVENUE (956,968)(2,268,118)(888,287)(867,425)(917,287) EXPEND.764,361 3,523,417 980,400 610,853 1,024,600 NET (192,607)1,255,299 92,113 (256,572)107,313 22/22