Special EDA Meeting for August 19, 2024

The City of International Falls Economic Development Authority held a special meeting on August 19, 2024, focusing primarily on housing development and infrastructure planning. The board discussed a proposal from K And Anderson for construction management services related to the Voyager National Park headquarters project, with some concerns raised due to ongoing litigation involving the company. The main agenda centered on addressing the city's housing shortage by exploring three potential development sites and engaging Bolton & Menk for a detailed site assessment, market analysis, and conceptual housing layouts. The goal is to prepare competitive grant applications for state and federal funding, particularly targeting infrastructure development to support new housing. The board deliberated on budgeting approximately $59,000 for these professional services, recognizing the critical need to proactively develop infrastructure to attract housing projects. Additional budget discussions included allocations for community events and museum funding. The meeting concluded with approval to proceed with the housing planning proposal, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure investment to enable future housing development.