Hibbing council approves $500,000 transfer for Dillon Road purchase and waives planning review on two property sales

The Hibbing City Council on Wednesday approved a $500,000 transfer from the general fund to the land acquisition fund and voted to purchase 3911 Dillon Road and adjoining parcels as part of the city’s 2023 strategic plan for economic development. Community Development Director Miss Solavanti told the council the land fund balance was about $120,000 and the transfer was necessary to buy 3911 and 3909 Dillon Road at the negotiated price; an appraisal was noted as $410,000. The council also approved a provision to split half the cost of a septic-system replacement, if required, and was told an inspection conducted in July 2025 gives the city until July 2027 to replace a failing septic system if it chooses to do so. Why it matters: The purchase is part of a strategic plan goal to expand property for economic development, creating space for commercial development, jobs, and destination retail or dining. Council action on the Dillon Road purchase: Councilor Hoffman Sackmann moved to transfer funds and to approve the purchase resolution; the transfer motion was supported by Councilor Faso and the purchase resolution was moved by Councilor Bayless and supported by Councilor Swiberger. The council approved the transfer and the purchase; staff indicated a closing date of Sept. 8, 2025. Waiver of planning commission referral: City Attorney Bartlett presented a separate resolution that would waive planning-commission review for the Hibbing Economic Development Authority’s sale of property at 1111 Seventh Avenue East (the former Didavik building), noting the planning commission had previously held a public hearing. The waiver requires a two-thirds council vote; the council approved the waiver by voice vote at the meeting. Discussion and limitations: Solavanti noted the waiver of planning-commission referral would apply only to the transaction in question. Councilors were advised the two-thirds threshold applies and that five council members were present at the meeting, meeting that requirement for this action. What’s next: The city will proceed toward closing on the Dillon Road parcels on Sept. 8 and will complete the HEDA conveyance under the terms described in the resolution.