New Ulm City Council approves affordable housing fund and clean energy partnership

The New Ulm City Council convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and community services. The meeting highlighted significant resolutions regarding affordable housing funding, a joint powers agreement for clean energy financing, and police department donations.

One of the primary actions taken was the establishment of Fund 254, designated for local affordable housing aid. The council approved a transfer of $65,386.45 from the General Fund to this new fund, which aims to support affordable housing initiatives in the community. The motion received unanimous support from all council members present.

In another significant development, the council approved a joint powers agreement with the Port Authority of Saint Paul to participate in the Minnesota Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program. This agreement will facilitate a PACE loan for the River Haven project, which is set to enhance clean energy construction efforts near the airport. The council noted that this initiative is new for New Ulm, although similar agreements exist at the county level.

Additionally, the council accepted generous donations totaling $2,200 to support the New Ulm Police Department's K9 program. The contributions included $2,000 from Herb Knutson and $200 from the New Ulm Dental Clinic, both of which were praised for their community impact.

The meeting concluded with a report on claims paid, amounting to $1,908,708.92, and a motion to enter a closed session to discuss real estate transactions related to the city’s airport property. This session was necessary for the consideration of offers for the purchase of specific parcels of land.

Overall, the council's decisions reflect a commitment to improving local housing, supporting clean energy initiatives, and enhancing public safety through community contributions. The next steps will involve implementing these resolutions and continuing discussions on the closed session matters.