Melissa Taporn, executive director of the Washington County Community Development Agency (CDA), provided an overview of the agency’s role in supporting affordable housing and economic development within the county. She highlighted the CDA’s management of 1,100 apartments and support for low-income seniors and families through various programs. Taporn discussed the CDA’s ability to levy a special benefit tax, which requires county board consent, and emphasized the agency’s focus on low-income housing, with income limits set between $37,000 and $75,000.

Taporn detailed the CDA’s efforts to aid apartment owners and developers in financing new constructions and renovations. She noted market trends indicating a slowdown in new market-rate apartment construction due to rising interest rates and construction costs, which contribute to an imbalance between supply and demand and subsequently drive up rental prices. Taporn pointed out that about 17% of homeowners and approximately half of renters in the county are cost-burdened, with this figure rising to nearly 80% among low-income seniors. This situation is exacerbated by a mismatch between resident wages, largely from hospitality, service, and retail jobs, and the high rental costs in the area.

The council also discussed the local affordable housing aid program, funded by a $2 billion housing bill passed by the state legislature. This program targets the metro area, including Bayport, with Washington County expected to receive $2.5 million in 2024 and about $6 million in 2025. The funds will support various programs, including a repair and renovation program and a grow fund to assist developers in creating or preserving affordable housing units. A representative highlighted initiatives to expand affordable housing access, such as rental assistance programs and grants for first-generation home buyers, aimed particularly at historically marginalized groups.

The council expressed interest in disseminating information about these programs to residents, acknowledging that many may not be aware of the available options. Materials and articles were offered to help increase community awareness.

In addition to housing, the meeting covered updates on the solar array project presented by Cody Rossman from Wolf River Electric. The project has encountered delays in material procurement, but necessary building and state electrical permits have been secured. The installation, expected to commence in about three weeks, aims to offset approximately 57% of the city’s electrical needs, equating to around 53,000 kilowatt-hours annually. The project, funded through a grant, incurs no costs for the city.

The council further discussed enhancements to community infrastructure, including street maintenance methods. These involve spray patching and microsurfacing, with a focus on high-traffic areas. The estimated cost for spray patching was noted as $22,175. Although not completed in time for the Memorial Day parade, the improvements are expected to benefit future events.

Attention was also given to the amendment of the Bayport City Code regarding tree replacement guidelines within subdivisions. The proposal shifts tree selection responsibility to developers or property owners, requiring plans that ensure selected species are structurally stable, non-invasive, preferably native, and adaptable to climate change.

Lastly, the council addressed leadership transitions within the city. The resignation of Simon Worth, Public Works Director, was accepted, and appreciation for his contributions was expressed. The search for candidates for a full-time fire chief and public works director is underway, with application deadlines approaching.