Vergas EDA/HRA discusses zoning, Sunny Oaks options
News | Published on December 26, 2023 at 11:28am EST | Author: frazeevergas
0By Robert Williams
Editor
The City of Vergas Economic Development Authority (EDA) and Housing Redevelopment Authority (HRA) met for the final time this year on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at the new Vergas Government Services building.
The HRA board discussed a change made regarding the lots on Eva Street and Dianne Avene.
The Otter Tail County HRA has requested to switch the 3 lots they own with the 3 lots across Dianne Street currently owned by the Vergas HRA. The plan for the lots is two triplexes dedicated for senior housing.
Joy Summers reviewed the difficulty in selling the lots due to income restrictions of $110,000 when a buyer must make $100,000 to get a loan from the bank to purchase. Summers stated she had one lot sold until she found out the buyers were $18,000 over the income limit.
Bruce Albright encouraged members to contact their state representatives.
Julie Lammers stated she would contact the county in regard to the 2024 numbers and CEDA Consultant Jordan Rasmusson regarding the income limits.
The county is applying for a grant for the duplexes and both Ditterich Mercantile and the Vergas Liquor Store have stated they will deliver to the future senior housing. The Lion’s Club has offered to provide neighbor to neighbor rides to appointments. Continued discussion will take place at the January meeting.
Commercial zoning expansion was also discussed. Albright stated he would like to examine what the city currently has for commercial and residential properties and compare it to the current zoning map and discuss expansion of commercial zoning.
The need for an industrial park was also brought up. An industrial park would allow for needed additions in Vergas, such as a car wash, vet clinic, etc. The board contemplated annexing property into the city limits to begin an industrial park as there is no land currently available in the city limits.
The need for daycare was addressed with the option of potentially turning one of the HRA lots into a daycare facility.
The meeting was the last for EDA/HRA President Kevin Zitzow, as his term expires at the end of the year. He can return after a one-year hiatus. The city council will likely appoint a replacement to the board.
The next EDA/HRA meeting will be held Tuesday, Jan. 9.