Brainerd City Council approves financing for Country Manor senior living campus

Brainerd City Council has taken significant steps towards enhancing community infrastructure and housing during their recent meeting on March 17, 2025. The council approved a resolution to finance a new senior living campus through conduit revenue bonds, marking a pivotal investment in the city's aging population's needs.

The approved financing plan for the Country Manor Project will utilize $8 million in conduit revenue bonds, aimed at developing a senior living campus that promises to improve housing options for Brainerd's seniors. The public hearing for this project saw no community objections, allowing the council to move forward swiftly with the resolution, which passed unanimously.

In addition to the senior living project, the council authorized the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) to submit a grant application for a small cities development program. This initiative, which focuses on streetscape improvements, is part of a broader strategy to enhance community development through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. The application is due by April 16, and the council set a public hearing for the next meeting to gather community input on the citizen participation plan.

The council also discussed sending out development opportunity letters to rental property owners, aiming to encourage the revitalization of underutilized rental properties in Brainerd. This initiative is expected to stimulate local investment and improve housing conditions.

Furthermore, the council addressed a zoning change request from Paradigm Auto, which was denied based on findings from a previous meeting. This decision reflects the council's commitment to maintaining community standards and addressing compliance issues.

Looking ahead, the council is preparing for a public hearing on the resurfacing project for Hawkins, Joseph, and Ronald streets, scheduled for April 21. This project will include essential infrastructure improvements, such as fire hydrants and water main replacements, further demonstrating the council's focus on enhancing public utilities and community safety.

These decisions underscore the Brainerd City Council's proactive approach to addressing housing needs and infrastructure improvements, setting a positive trajectory for the community's future development.