City-owned lots to be developed
City-owned lots to be developed
By STU MERRY
Reasoning it’s time to take action, the Garrison City Council moved Monday night to proceed with developing four lots in the Bicentennial Addition. The area is in northeast Garrison near St. Paul Lutheran Church.
“We have to move forward,” reasoned Alderman Gene Hummel. “You’re not going to sell anything if you don’t have any lots for sale.”
City officials realize that newcomers or residents looking to build in city limits have precious few options. While development along the Lake Sakakawea is robust, growth within the community is relatively stagnant as property for sale is slim at best.
“It’s the only way we’re going to see any growth in town,” added Mayor Dave Reinarts.
City officials have been tentative over the past couple of years in their desire to improve the area for development. One of the biggest reasons is potential cost. But as time passed, developing the area a portion at a time seemed the obvious way to go; so at the meeting action was taken.
What is needed to proceed with development is a cost to install infrastructure. Hummel said infrastructure would be sewer, water and, to begin with, a gravel road. A cost will be secured and brought to the January meeting.
Last month, the council accepted a bid by Alan Huettl for the last developed lot in the addition.
TIF on hold
The council has tabled action on hosting a public hearing/meeting that will inform the community about the proposed establishment of a TIF or Tax Increment Financing District.
At Monday’s meeting, City Auditor Diane Affeldt told council members that by establishing a TIF District the city would need an urban renewal plan in place to get started. She said the plan would act as an ordinance.
Developing a TIF District was one of the main goals in the city’s Strategic Plan. The plan was completed this fall.
