Council approves development agreement for 455 E. 15th, advancing a nonprofit-operated community health facility; mayor abstains

The Dubuque City Council on June 15 approved a development agreement by and between the city and the Greater Dubuque Impact Investment Fund to redevelop and sell approximately 0.71 acres at 455 East 15th Street for development of nonprofit-operated community health and related office facilities.

City Attorney Crenna Brumwell read the staff recommendation and summarized the agreement’s key terms: the developer would purchase the parcel for $151,300 offset by a land acquisition grant of the same amount contingent on completing required improvements; the developer would construct community health and office facilities with an estimated total cost of $5 million; construction is to begin by Oct. 1, 2027 and be substantially complete by April 1, 2031; and the city would provide 10 years of tax increment financing rebates if the property is subject to real property taxes. Brumwell said the timeline allows for an anticipated 12–18 month environmental assessment and mitigation ahead of construction.

Mayor Brad Cavanagh announced an abstention from the vote because his wife has a role at Crescent Community Health Center, which has been discussed as a likely occupant: “I just don’t think it would be appropriate for me to vote on this one.” The council proceeded with discussion and several members expressed support for the project as a community health expansion.

Councilmember David Resnick moved to receive and file and adopt the resolution; the motion was seconded and passed with six ayes and one abstention.

Staff will proceed with the development agreement steps and permitting processes consistent with the timeline in the contract.