Andra Willis

This Community Development Strategy, based on the Carver County Community Development Agency's 2019-2021 Strategic Plan, serves as a roadmap to guide community and economic development activities. It focuses on six strategic directions: supporting existing businesses and new opportunities, promoting Carver County's development opportunities, maintaining and enhancing key partnerships, coordinating county-wide tourism efforts, assisting cities and projects with resources, and improving overall community livability. The plan's purpose is to benefit the cities, businesses, and residents of Carver County by fostering growth and creating 'Communities for a Lifetime'.

The board meeting addressed several key agenda items, including the approval of the 2025 audit, a presentation on a compliance overview, and the allocation of 2026 Community Growth Partnership Initiative (CGPI) grant awards to various community projects in Chanhassen, Norwood Young America, and Watertown. Additionally, the board approved lender partners for the 2026 down payment assistance program, updated travel and expense reimbursement policies, and authorized permanent financing for the Carver Place project. Staff provided reports on office expansion, departmental dashboards, marketing efforts, housing program updates, and upcoming board trainings.

The Board meeting included discussions on several key operational and financial items. The agenda featured the approval of Senior Home Repair Program guidelines and a partnership with Rebuilding Together Minnesota, an update to the Not to Exceed amount for the CDA office expansion project, and the procurement of office furniture. Additionally, the Board authorized the redemption of Series 2000 limited tax obligation bonds to reduce interest costs and approved permanent financing for the Carver Place development. Staff also reviewed reports on housing initiatives, financial disbursements, and community development projects.

The Board meeting included several key agenda items such as the approval of the Senior Home Repair Program guidelines and a partnership with Rebuilding Together Minnesota, an update to the office expansion budget, and the approval of funds for new office furniture. The Board also authorized the redemption of Series 2000 Limited Tax Obligation Bonds to eliminate interest costs. Additionally, the Board discussed administrative items including reduced office hours due to renovations, an update on an upcoming all-staff event, and various departmental status reports on housing, finance, and community development projects.

The Board meeting included the approval of several consent agenda items, such as the monthly dashboard, write-off of past tenant balances, and record of disbursements. The board also approved procurement for the CDA office expansion and reviewed updates to the Community Growth Partnership Initiative (CGPI) program guidelines, including a new grant category for technology assistance. Additionally, the board approved a pre-development grant for the City of Waconia regarding a small area redevelopment plan. Staff provided various updates on housing programs, rent assistance initiatives, and financial performance reports, as well as presentations on regional development and county updates.