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Board preliminarily approves transfer of tax-abatement to UFP Real Estate as Berry Pallets prepares sale
Summary
Waseca County preliminarily approved transferring an existing tax-abatement agreement for Berry Pallets to UFP Real Estate LLC ahead of a planned May closing; company representatives said operations and many employees will continue.
County staff asked the board to preliminarily approve transferring the remaining duration of a tax-abatement agreement granted to Berry Pallets to UFP Real Estate LLC pending a planned acquisition closing.
Michael briefed commissioners on the abatement's history (an earlier agreement in 2014 and an extension implemented in 2023) and on contractual provisions that allow the county at its discretion to approve a project transfer following an acquisition.
Richard (Berry Pallets representative) thanked the board for prior approvals that helped the company add a new building and manage startup costs. David McNamera (acquirer representative, on the phone) said UFP intends to continue operating the facility, keep local management in place for a smooth transition and expand employment over time.
Staff said the current operation employs about 75 people. Commissioners praised the company's local contribution and provisionally approved the transfer to allow the acquisition to proceed; final transfer paperwork will follow closing.
