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Otter Tail County approves HRA request to buy Deer Creek tax‑forfeited lot at 25% of appraised value
Summary
The Otter Tail County Board approved selling a tax‑forfeited lot (217 State Highway 106, Deer Creek) to the HRA for $1,250 (25% of appraised $5,000) if the relocation plan for a donated cabin proceeds, to support an affordable homeownership opportunity.
The Otter Tail County Board voted Oct. 28 to sell a tax‑forfeited parcel in Deer Creek (217 State Highway 106) to the county’s HRA at a reduced purchase price — 25 percent of the $5,000 appraised value, or $1,250 plus recording fees — contingent on project details and successful relocation of a donated cabin. Community Development Director Amy Baldwin said the HRA and the city of Deer Creek support the plan, which aims to create an income‑qualified home by moving and renovating a donated cabin instead of demolishing it.
Baldwin said staff considered other nearby communities to limit moving costs and that the lot is development‑ready with utilities. The HRA intends to construct a new garage and other site work; the project remains subject to moving logistics, zoning and final financial feasibility. Baldwin said the county staff is drafting guidance on discounted sales for tax‑forfeited parcels and that a 25 percent baseline is proposed for affordable‑housing nonprofit or government entities but not mandatory in every case.
Board action: Commissioner Laman moved to approve the HRA purchase at $1,250 plus recording fees if the plan comes together; the motion passed by voice vote.
Context: County boards have in the past sold tax‑forfeited parcels at nominal prices to municipalities, nonprofits and housing organizations to support community goals. The sale would return a residence to the tax rolls as an income‑qualified property if the project advances.
