Pine City EDA approves RFP for grading of Orvis property, discusses rezoning options

The Pine City Economic Development Authority voted to send out a request for proposals to perform grading work on the Orvis property and discussed rezoning options intended to make the parcel more attractive to potential developers.

Board members discussed several possible uses for the site, including general business, industrial/technology uses, business‑flex, and mixed use. Members said minimal preparatory work — rough grading, removing trees and establishing basic utilities — could improve the parcel’s marketability and make it easier to respond quickly to developer interest.

A board member moved to solicit proposals for grading work and the motion was seconded and carried. Members asked staff to post the RFP publicly, circulate it by email, and aim to have proposals returned before the next EDA meeting so the board can review options promptly.

Staff suggested coordinating with the city planner to align rezoning language and avoid restricting potential uses (one speaker noted the city website already lists the Orvis parcel as open to rezoning). Members said they preferred a flexible “zone‑to‑suit” approach so the site could accommodate a range of business types.

The board did not set a budget for the grading work during the vote; members discussed keeping initial engineering and architectural costs to a minimum and funding future work through the budget process or tax‑increment revenues if needed.

Next steps: staff will prepare and circulate the RFP and report back to the board with submitted proposals at or before the next meeting.