By Tucker Henderson

Reporter

With no new business on the docket for this month’s agenda, the New York Mills Economic Development Authority went quickly through their meeting on Tuesday, June 17 as they discussed the development within the city.

Much of the meeting’s swiftness came from several agenda items hinging upon an update from Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA). Julie Roberts, city clerk, said that she had emailed the company to find out how many hours left on their contract were available and hadn’t heard back.

The Downtown Matching Grant Program received one application in the past month from the Continental Divide Brew Pub asking for $662 to purchase and install solar screens for the front window of the building. The application was approved by the board with Betsy Roder, Bonnie Dykhoff and Latham Hetland abstaining.

Roberts also updated the board on the Country View Addition, which has only four lots left to sell. Three have already had interest in them and a fourth, which has not been marketed before, will also be sellable. Otter Tail County has expressed interest in three lots in NY Mills to act as a developer. These lots would fit the bill for a project such as that.

Latham Hetland reported on the NYM Forward group, which met later that day. They had been discussing Welcoming Week in which they have an event scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 16 from 4-7 p.m. where organizations from around the community will be present to let others know more about them and an opportunity for community members new and old to become more invested in the local.

Roberts reported that the South Point Addition had trees planted along the walking pathway by the Lions, who will also be installing shelters soon. The next step for the city’s water treatment plant will also take place in that addition. The South Point Apartment building has reached half capacity and continues to receive applications.

Bonnie Dykhoff also reported that the dog park project, which has stalled in recent months, is picking up some new traction and may feature some new faces in the coming months. She plans to continue on the next phase of their project. Hetland remarked that plans to help connect the dog park and the walking path is also in the works.

Adam Johnson reported on the Family Resource Center that has been making steady progress at the county level and will be housed in the City Center building after renovations are made. The final walk through of the building has been made and work on installing three egress windows, a kitchen, serving counter, one stall bathroom, and handwashing sink will be underway.

The next meeting of the NY Mills EDA will be be held on Wednesday, July 16 at 8:30 a.m. in the City Hall Chambers.