Pine Island's Elizabeth Howard discusses rapid community growth and housing strategies

The June 3, 2025, Olmsted County Board Meeting featured a comprehensive update from Pine Island Administrator Elizabeth Howard, who highlighted the community's rapid growth and ongoing development initiatives. Howard noted that Pine Island is the fastest-growing community in Goodhue County and one of the fastest in Olmsted County, with a median age of 33.9, significantly younger than the county averages.

Key discussions included the pressing issue of housing, with Howard emphasizing the need for diverse housing options beyond single-family homes. She reported on several ongoing housing developments, including two single-family projects and a new townhome subdivision. However, she acknowledged a critical shortage of apartments and indicated that the city is exploring ways to facilitate the construction of affordable and workforce housing.

Howard also addressed the role of the Pine Island School District in the community's growth, noting that approximately 33% of students are open enrolled, which is stretching school facilities. She emphasized the collaborative efforts between the city and the school district to accommodate this growth without overburdening residents.

In terms of recreational opportunities, Howard highlighted Pine Island's extensive parks and trails, including plans for new amenities such as kayak rentals and mountain biking trails. The city council is prioritizing investments in parks and recreation to enhance community offerings.

On the commercial front, Howard discussed the city's acquisition of 22 acres for potential new city buildings and highway commercial development. She mentioned ongoing discussions with a developer regarding a 400-acre light industrial and technology campus, pending environmental studies and annexation agreements.

Howard also provided an update on the Santeri Sewer District, which aims to address aging wastewater infrastructure through a collaborative effort among four communities. The project has received $10 million in state funding for engineering and design, with hopes for additional federal funding to support construction in the coming years.

Finally, Howard touched on challenges related to childcare availability and transportation connectivity, particularly in relation to the Age Friendly initiative. She expressed a commitment to exploring innovative solutions to these issues, ensuring that Pine Island continues to grow sustainably and inclusively.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the importance of ongoing collaboration between Pine Island and Olmsted County to address these challenges and enhance community well-being.