Developer briefs Lindstrom planning commission on 43-unit workforce housing concept

Commonwealth presented an updated concept for an apartment building on the Dinner Bell/LJ Juice site, describing a 43-unit mix of one- through four-bedroom units with in-unit washers and dryers, hard flooring and planned communal features. Staff framed the agenda item as a concept review to gather nonbinding feedback before the developer applies for Minnesota Housing tax credits and before the city council considers the application in June.

Commissioners asked whether the project is funded through project-based rental assistance or other subsidy; staff and the developer said the application is headed to Minnesota Housing and will qualify under the state’s affordable housing process but functions locally as workforce housing that could serve first‑year teachers, retail workers and truck drivers. The developer emphasized that program rules set rents: "Pod dictates the rents," he said, explaining the funding program governs permitted rent levels. Staff said the developer plans to apply for state credits in July and that awards typically occur in December, with entitlement review and potential construction starting after winter restrictions lift.