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Shakopee EDA approves purchase and demolition of 124 Somerville Street, 2–1 votes
Summary
The Shakopee Economic Development Authority approved buying 124 Somerville St. for $75,000 and awarded demolition and asbestos-removal contracts (Sherpurn Companies $55,736; Virgo Environmental $1,514). The board approved the purchase and contracts by 2–1 votes; officials said contamination was limited and demolition and soil removal are planned.
The Shakopee Economic Development Authority on Nov. 5 approved a purchase agreement for 124 Somerville Street South (PID 270011810) for $75,000 and authorized demolition and asbestos-abatement contracts.
EDA staff told the board that the property’s price was reduced by the seller and that the building is not suitable for reuse. Staff reported limited asbestos and shallow soil contamination (described in the presentation as contamination concentrated in the top foot of soil) and said the demolition contractor will remove that soil and send it to an appropriate landfill.
Board member Contreras moved to approve the purchase agreement with Kim Robson for $75,000; the motion was seconded and discussed. Some board members objected to using public funds for the acquisition, while others said the EDA’s charter includes addressing deteriorated and contaminated properties to support future redevelopment and economic development.
The EDA approved contracting Sherpurn Companies for building demolition and site remediation for $55,736 and Virgo Environmental for asbestos removal for $1,514. The record in the meeting shows the purchase and contract approvals passed by 2–1 votes.
Why it matters: Staff and board members said the property could support downtown parking or future redevelopment and that proactively remediating and removing the blighted structure is within EDA responsibilities. The board noted the purchase is an EDA action distinct from the city council’s routine operating decisions.
Contracts and amounts recorded in the meeting: purchase agreement $75,000 to Kim Robson; demolition contract $55,736 to Sherpurn Companies; asbestos abatement $1,514 to Virgo Environmental. The motion outcomes were recorded as 2–1 in favor.
The EDA adjourned to its next scheduled meeting on Dec. 2, 2025.
