The council’s approval of Project Spark came after discussions about the development’s potential impact on the community. The project, proposed by Steve Brown, includes a planned unit development that will initially feature two model tiny homes to gauge the feasibility of further expansion. The development is characterized by a mix of support and concerns from council members and the community. A council member expressed enthusiasm for the concept of tiny homes, citing their potential to diversify local housing options. Yet, they also voiced reservations about the aesthetic, likening the design to “barracks,” given the homes’ compact 20 by 20 feet dimensions.

The council’s approval of a plan amendment changed the land use designation of the property from low-density to high-density residential. This amendment aligns with surrounding land uses and reflects the evolving residential landscape of New Ulm. The council emphasized the need for varied housing types, with several members highlighting the project’s contribution to the city’s development goals.

In addition to Project Spark, the council reviewed another development: Riverhaven Housing. This mixed-use residential project aims to deliver 118 units, including twin homes, single-family homes, and two apartment buildings. A phased approach will see the initial focus on apartment construction, with subsequent phases offering lots for sale to private developers. The planning commission’s recommendations included enhanced landscaping to mitigate the visual impact on nearby properties.

The Riverhaven project generated considerable discussion during previous planning commission meetings, primarily due to concerns about its scale and the potential aesthetic impact on the surrounding area. The proposed apartment buildings, with a height of approximately 43.5 feet, prompted discussions about visibility and compatibility with existing residential structures. To address these concerns, the developer committed to improved screening and landscaping efforts.

Alongside development projects, the council tackled financial matters, approving the early retirement of general obligation debt issued in 2017. By calling the last two years of bond payments in December, the city anticipates saving approximately $16,000 in interest.

The meeting also covered the approval of various noise variance requests for upcoming community events. The New Chamber of Commerce received permission for amplified music during the Crazy Days event and the Spiking in the Street event, both scheduled for late July and early August. Additionally, a variance was approved for Music for a Mission’s event planned for August 23-24, 2025.

Furthermore, the council approved multiple temporary on-sale liquor licenses for local events, including those for the Brown County Agricultural Society’s fair and the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity’s church festival. These approvals were part of the council’s routine agenda to facilitate community engagement and support local traditions.

In a move to support local business operations, the council renewed a tree service license for Construction and Tree Services LLC for 2025 and 2026.

The meeting concluded with the council accepting a report of claims paid, totaling over $3.1 million.