By Robert Williams

Editor

The Frazee Economic Development Authority (EDA) is taking a serious look at the front four lots of the Red Willow Heights subdivision.

The front lots are zoned single, two-family residential according to City Administrator Stephanie Poegel. The EDA desires apartment buildings and will have to rezone the property to pursue that plan. The Planning and Zoning committee would handle the rezoning and the city council would have final approval or denial.

Additional discussion with Planning and Zoning will need to be had because the existing multi-family zone allows for 12 units per lot, which would house a maximum of 24 units if used on two of the lots.

“I think the existing plans are for 28 and 30,” said Poegel.

Council Liaison Andrea Froeber had a discussion with a current resident of Red Willow.

“We talked about not making them feel like this was something that was getting shoved down their throats,” she said.

Plans are to speak with two to three current homeowners to gather feedback and then continue with a larger neighborhood meeting prior to any decisions being made.

EDA President Heath Peterson has held meetings with both Mayor Mike Sharp and other council members. Councilman Mark Kemper was supportive of the preliminary plan, but agreed communication with neighboring residents was imperative.

“I think the transition and the ask for all these other things would be less contentious if we take the time to do these things,” said Froeber.

There will be plenty of time for discussions as rezoning is a slow process.

A developer has expressed interest in the project and has recently completed a project in Lake Park that is similar but not exact.

December also marks the expiration of a one-year agreement between the EDA and Jena Seim of The Brandenburg Crew of eXp Realty, based in Fargo, on the sale of open lots in Red Willow Heights. 

Frazee Forward

The EDA discussed bringing back the monthly Frazee Forward meetings. The meetings are open to the public. Future meetings will be held in a new place, potentially the conference room at Solberg Insurance and/or a rotating schedule of available restaurants.

Discussion included making business needs and resources a priority at the meetings, for instance the effects of the state’s mandatory paid leave program and focusing the meetings in a more business format rather than social.

Snow removal

The City of Frazee is still seeking bids for snow removal at the East Main retail building. Contact the city office for more information.