Houston County approves six‑year tax abatement for Snowpack Foods cold‑storage project

At its scheduled public hearing, the Houston County Board adopted a resolution approving a county property tax abatement for Snowpack Foods to assist in construction of a cold‑storage facility in the Caledonia industrial park.

Allison, presenting on behalf of the Economic Development Authority staff, said Snowpack Foods applied for a county tax abatement under Minnesota Statutes 469.1812–469.1815. Allison told the board the project qualifies for abatement and that the EDA recommends approval. She said the abatement would not exceed a period of six years and would apply beginning with taxes payable in 2027; the resolution and supporting materials are in the meeting packet.

The board opened the hearing for public comment; none was received. Commissioners then moved and seconded a resolution to adopt the EDA’s recommendation. The motion was approved by voice vote.

Pete, a Snowpack representative, said the facility will also lease space to other local businesses and spoke about seasonal storage needs; he said Snowpack hopes to complete construction in July (company estimate). Allison noted the city of Caledonia had not yet approved a parallel city abatement. The board’s action was limited to the county portion of the request; any city action or additional approvals remain separate.

What happens next: The county’s abatement will apply only to county property taxes and is time‑limited; city approvals and any other permitting remain outstanding and were described as separate steps by staff.