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Blue Earth County EDA approves $60,000 deck replacements, backs $150,000 state grant match and reestablishes Mankato HRA
Summary
The Blue Earth County Economic Development Authority approved a $60,000 public-housing deck replacement project, authorized pursuit of a Minnesota Housing Local Housing Trust Fund grant with up to $150,000 in local matching funds, and voted to reestablish the Mankato Housing and Redevelopment Authority to transfer properties to the city.
The Blue Earth County Economic Development Authority voted Feb. 25 to fund repairs to public-housing decks, back a state housing trust grant application with local matching funds and to reestablish the Mankato Housing and Redevelopment Authority to complete a property disposition process.
The board approved a feasibility plan and a contract to replace four decks in Lake Crystal and one deck in Mapleton at county public-housing units. Luke Peterson of City of Mankato facilities presented the feasibility report, saying the work will replace footings, framing, deck boards and railings at most sites; one Lake Crystal location will receive deck boards and railings only because its foundations and framing are in “great shape.” The estimated value is $60,000 and the project will be paid from 2025 Blue Earth County EDA capital funds with work expected in summer 2025.
The EDA also authorized staff to prepare an application to Minnesota Housing’s Local Housing Trust Fund program and supported providing up to $150,000 in local matching funds. Staff described the program rules: grant funds must support households at or below a percentage of statewide median income, may be used for development, down-payment assistance, rental assistance, counseling and an administrative fee up to 10%, and grant funds must be used within five years. The application deadline is March 19; staff recommended the EDA commit up to $150,000 so the state would match $150,000.
Separately, the EDA voted to reestablish the Mankato Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) so the HRA can transfer specified public-housing properties to the City of Mankato. Staff said the city will own and lease the properties and the EDA will continue project-based voucher assistance. A public hearing on the HRA disposition is scheduled for March 10; staff said HUD approval for related county transfers has been received and additional information will be provided to the board in coming months.
The motions to approve each item carried during the EDA portion of the meeting.
