Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Tif Job Extension topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Monticello EDA extends Wiha Tools' TIF job-creation deadline to Feb. 2, 2027
Summary
The Monticello EDA unanimously approved Resolution 2026-05 to extend the job-creation compliance date for Willi Hahn–Wiha Tools from Feb. 2, 2026, to Feb. 2, 2027, after staff reported operational setbacks that slowed hiring and Northland Securities advised exploring an amendment to the TIF agreement.
The Monticello Economic Development Authority voted unanimously April 22 to extend the job-creation compliance deadline for Willi Hahn–Wiha Tools under its tax-increment financing development agreement. The board adopted Resolution No. 2026-05 to move the compliance date from Feb. 2, 2026, to Feb. 2, 2027 (motion by Tracy Hinz; second Hali Sittig).
Executive Director Jim Thares told the board that Wiha Tools has faced “serious and unexpected corporate operational and production setbacks” and recent cyclic staffing patterns that impeded meeting the original job targets. Thares said staff and commissioners discussed differences between state grant job thresholds (41 full-time equivalent positions) and the local TIF agreement requirement (31 FTEs).
Tammy Omdal of Northland Securities, introduced by staff during the public-hearing discussion, said reducing the job-creation number through a further TIF amendment could be worth exploring, but advised the EDA to consult its attorney about legal implications. Mayor Lloyd Hilgart emphasized the value of the tax-base growth generated by the Wiha Tools facility and its future expansion, saying the EDA should balance job targets with overall project benefits.
The extension allows Wiha Tools additional time to meet the locally required employment level while staff explores possible adjustments to the agreement. The resolution passed 6-0. The board did not adopt any further contractual changes at this meeting; staff indicated potential follow-up amendments will be brought back for consideration as needed.
