Park Rapids Enterprise
Progress
1 Saturday, March 28, 2020
Hometown chic
Good Life Cafe expansion delivers contemporary comfort By Shannon Geisen sgeisen@ parkrapidsenterprise.com The good life just got better. The Good Life Cafe, that is. Owner Molly Luther purchased Al’s Paint & Glass from Jim and Sue Wothe, quadrupling the size of her downtown Park Rapids business. “The building we bought was 6,300 square feet, and we had about 2,000,” she said. The expansion allowed Luther’s other venture – Molly Poppin’s Gourmet Snacks – to move under the same roof as the eatery. After a six-week closure, the newly renovated space reopened in June 2019 with more seating, a bigger bar, a private dining room and a large kitchen. Where they used to seat 115, The Good Life Cafe now welcomes 165 guests, “plus our private dining room,” Luther said, which opened at the end of November 2019. The party room has been busy, she said. “It has been really nice for people – lots of different types of events. We seat about 60.” Holiday parties, family reunions, birthday parties, an improv group’s rehearsals and even a small wedding have transpired. “People have asked about doing plays in there and piano recitals,” Luther added. “It’s a very flexible space.” Luther and her husband, Luke, built the cafe with their own hands. While Molly served as general contractor on this remodel, Luke, a residential
Submitted photo
The Good Life Cafe expanded into the former Al’s Paint & Glass last summer, bringing Molly Poppin’s Gourmet Snacks into the neighboring space.
Even though it was arduous, it was fruitful. - MOLLY LUTHER, owner of The Good Life Cafe and Molly Poppin’s Gourmet Snacks carpenter by trade, was the main carpenter. “He did a great job,” Molly said. “I feel badly for our kids, though. I don’t think they saw the two of us in the same room for at least six weeks.” They worked with about 25 subcontractors, knocking down the 16-inch concrete walls between the two buildings, upgrading the water line, building a new roof and adding steel beams, among other things. “The city was wonderful to work with, all of the contractors, all the financial institutions,” Molly said. A great deal of planning and forethought went into the renovation. “Even though it was arduous, it was fruitful,” she said. The enlarged, state-ofthe-art kitchen added 10 feet of cooking line. “We just about doubled it,” Molly said, noting they rearranged the area to improve efficiency. The former outdoor patio at the rear of the restaurant was transformed into a walk-in cooler. A long panel of kitchen windows overlooks the dining area, providing light and brightness to the cooks. It’s entertaining for young customers as well.
Shannon Geisen/ Enterprise
Owner Molly Luther stands before the new electric fireplace. There is one on each side of the wall. “It just takes the chill off the windows,” she said of the comfy feature.
GOOD LIFE: Page 3
Meadow View workforce housing opens County HRA hopes to add second apartment building
Robin Fish/Enterprise
Hubbard County HRA’s Meadow View Apartments opened Jan. 1 off Career Path in Park Rapids. As of March 1, all but four of the 28 units were leased out. By Robin Fish rfish@arkrapids enterprise.com “Meadow View is filling up fast,” said Carolyn Pfeifer with the Hubbard County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) in a March 2 interview. “We opened Jan. 1, and I’m down to four apartments left – two bedrooms. So, out of 28 units, filling up in a little over two months, it’s pretty good.” Pfeifer handles leasing and building management from her new office at the apartment building the HRA developed last year to serve the local workforce. The Meadow View apartments are located across Career Path from the Salvage Depot, at the east end of 16 donated acres stretching west to the Park Rapids
Walmart. The $2.2 million project was made possible by a $550,000 workforce housing development grant from Minnesota Housing. In-kind contributions toward the local share of the project cost included the HRA waiving its developer fees, city building official Brad Bail reducing his review and inspection fees, and a reduction of the city’s planning fees. “Workers have to have a place to live,” Park Rapids City Planner Andrew Mack said in a Feb. 19 interview. Due to the grant, he said, the HRA can offer lower rents than the market average without being subsidized as low-income housing. “A lot of these (tenants) don’t qualify for lowincome apartments, but they don’t make enough
to pay more than what they’re paying here,” said Pfeifer. “They’re in that gray area, the niche we’re trying to fill.” She described them as working families who find that market-rate rent “would just eat up too much of their paycheck. I feel we’re really hitting that market here.” Pfeifer said she believes most of them had to drive to work from out of town before finding homes at Meadow View, “which really works out for our businesses,” she said, “because if they have roots here, they’re more likely to stay in the job they have here – versus, if you commute, you get kind of tired of that commute after a while.” Regarding the tenants’ reception of the new apartments, Pfeifer said, “They’re all very happy
about it. They just fall determiner on whether in love with the building or not there’s really the when they see it.” need we’re predicting,” Thompson said. She Phase 2 The HRA’s experiment said she has heard from in affordable workforce other housing providers Meadow View’s housing has worked so that shows the well, they’re going to try success model fills a need felt it again. This January, Executive throughout Minnesota. Director Mary Thompson “I think people are with the Heartland really watching what Lakes Development happens here as a Commission submitted potential for replicating an application for a it around the state,” she second workforce housing said. “Most apartment development grant, buildings (take) six requesting $650,000 this months to fill. Our time to build a similar apartment building market study thought south of Meadow View. about four months to fill, The project’s working and we’re at two and just title is Meadow’s Edge. about full. So, I think we Thompson expects to were right on with the know by the end of March need and the value that whether the project will folks are getting from be funded. the place.” How fast the first phase filled up “is a big MEADOW VIEW: Page 4
Work begins on new Essentia HealthPark Rapids Clinic The clinic is currently under construction on State Hwy. 34 in the former Pamida store. According to a new release, a phased opening beginning in the fall of 2020 is expected, with a grand opening being announced to the community once all services and departments are transitioned into the new clinic. The remodeled space will be home to walk-in care, expanded therapy services, orthopedics, podiatry and additional specialty clinic exam and procedure space. Lab and radiology services will be offered in both current and new spaces. This new facility will allow Essentia Health to better accommodate growth in specialty and primary care, enabling people to receive care close to home, the news release said. Dr. Michele Thieman says, “This new clinic will allow us to keep healthcare local for our patients and offer more specialties and outreach services right here in Park Rapids.” Thieman adds, “Our patients are our number one priority and we’ll continue to work closely with the hospital to provide the best care for those we serve.”
Progress
2 Saturday, March 28, 2020
Park Rapids Enterprise
Rebuilt Blueberry Pines clubhouse, restaurant opens this spring By Shannon Geisen sgeisen@ parkrapidsenterprise.com Construction is nearly complete on Blueberry Pines Golf Course’s clubhouse and restaurant, which were destroyed by fire in January 2019. Wes Renneberg is the new owner. “They’re shooting to have the pro shop, bathrooms and essentials done by the first week of April, and then the restaurant will probably be a little later, in May,” said Gavin Mickelson, head golf course manager, who is returning to the staff, along with Jeff Yungbauer. “We’re hoping to open the course as soon as the grass allows. It’s weather-dependent, of course.” The club also has a new fleet of electric EZ-GO golf carts.
The full-service restaurant will feature high ceilings and a Northwoods feel, Mickelson said. Open year ’round, it will have a 75-person seating capacity, plus additional outdoor seating. Jeff Reish is the new general manager. He’ll be running the kitchen, bringing his 18 years of food and service management experience. “It’s very exciting. I’m looking forward to this,” he said, describing the new menu as “a step up from casual dining. We’ll be focusing on what we do well and do it every night that way. We’ll use features and specialty nights to show off our fun cooking, especially since we’ll be open year ’round.” Reish said both the dining room and outdoor
patio will have gorgeous views of the pine-laden golf course. Lausten Construction Inc. of Sebeka is the main contractor, while BHH Partners of Perham is the architect. Reish said the new 4,000-square-foot space will have more of a “craftsman-style look” than the log home of the past. In addition, Renneberg is planning a housing development, including both single and multifamily dwellings, overlooking the golf course. Plans call for there to be a homeowners agreement in place and a private road system. “They’re set to start within the year,” Mickelson said. “It’ll be nice to go out to dinner in your golf cart,” Reish added.
Shannon Geisen/Enterprise
The new Blueberry Pine Golf Course clubhouse and restaurant has a covered patio for outdoor seating and full-service dining.
Hometown brewery opening this summer By Shannon Geisen sgeisen@ parkrapidsenterprise.com Local beer enthusiasts will soon carouse in a new brewery, opening this summer in downtown Park Rapids, aptly named Revel Brewing. Katie and Dylon Deschene have been home brewing for a decade. When the Deschenes returned to Park Rapids from Colorado Springs four years ago, they were surprised there wasn’t a local brewery here. “And we missed the atmosphere because there is something different about a brewery,” Katie said. While living in Colorado, they enjoyed touring several microbreweries Shannon Geisen/Enterprise and nanobreweries. Both Katie and Dylon Deschene are the newest entrepreneurs fell in love with the on Main Street, Park Rapids. They’ll be serving their craft culture and variety of beers at Revel Brewing, starting in the summer of 2020. craft beverages.
About a year ago, they decided to pursue the venture on their own, purchasing the former Molly Poppin’s Gourmet Snacks at the corner 201 Main Ave. and beginning construction. Once the site of a bank, the Deschenes are incorporating parts of the building’s history into the brewhouse. “One of the vaults is going to be a walkin cooler. There’s another vault that’s decommissioned. We’ll use that for barrel aging, so it will be like a cellar,” Dylon said. “Another vault is going to be converted into two restrooms.” Revel Brewing will offer a variety of craft brews – from pilsners to stouts to IPAs – all from family recipes. The home brewing tradition “goes back in
my family quite a ways,” Dylon said, starting with his grandparents, who made dandelion wine. “My dad used to make different recipes, like ginger ales, sodas and wines. Then he got into brewing beer at home. His basement was bubbling with a bunch of five-gallon fermenters, probably in 2004.” In 2008, the couple decided to try their luck at home brewing after tasting an old family beer recipe. “We had some friends come over and help us bottle and stuff like that,” Dylon recalled. “We’ve been making beer on a pilot system – that’s what breweries use to test their recipes,” he explained. “It makes about 10 gallons per batch. We’ve been doing that for 10 years.” The Deschenes will unveil a variety of flavors
and see which are most popular with locals. “We’ll definitely experiment,” Katie said. “It’ll probably always be changing, what’s on tap. We’ll probably have three to five that are always on tap.” Other recipes will rotate based on the season, she continued. “We want to do, as much as we can, local and seasonal ingredients,” Dylon added. Katie is from Park Rapids originally. Dylon grew up north of the Mississippi headwaters. They returned to Minnesota with their two small children to be closer to family. Revel Brewery will seat between 50 to 80 people. An outdoor seating area is planned at the rear of the building.
Necce’s to add microbakery and outdoor patio By Shannon Geisen sgeisen@ parkrapidsenterprise.com
“We always like to sit outside and summer is so short,” she said. The patio will have Denese Jokela, owner of Necce’s Ristorante, a festive atmosphere, purchased the Smoky Hills with color, umbrellas, Art building, with plans plants, lights “and fun,” to upgrade the restaurant Jokela said. A microbakery, with and create an outdoor patio space “where guests counter service, will be can dine al fresco.” accessible from Main Street
and opening at 7 a.m. Jokela is developing recipes with local baker Mark Bridge. Trained at the Escoffier International, Bridge bakes artisanal breads and desserts “from only the finest ingredients.” He joined Necce’s team in the summer of 2019 to make breads, cookies,
desserts and pizza dough. Coffee, expresso, tea and fresh-baked goods – like donuts, scones, sticky buns – will be served at the new bakery, plus specialty sandwiches. Necce’s will offer casual lunches and wood-fired pizzas on the outdoor patio as well.
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The kitchen is slated for remodeling, and a fireplace will be added to the bar area. She’s currently working with a Brainerd architect to finalize plans. Jokela hopes to open the new spaces by Memorial Day. Jokela thanked Citizens
1919
NORTHWOODS BANK We make it happen... for you!
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HEADWATERS GOLF CLUB732-4832 headwatersgolf.com 1921 – Originally Park Rapids Golf Club. A 9-hole facility built by Ryan Olinger and a group of local businessmen 1945 – Bought by Clyde Johnson 1948 – Sold to Jack Anderson 1968 – Renamed Headwaters Country Club, Inc. Expanded to 18-hole golf course financed & built by 300 shareholders
1940 TRUSTED SINCE 1940 Owners since 2009: Kari Wiese & Andria Nordick Northway Insurance - 1999-2009 Hewitt Zitzer Agency - 1979-1999 Originally: Hewitt Insurance Agency - 1940-1979 (218) 732-4241 • (866) 722-5205
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1945
CUMBER
Construction Inc.
Quality Black Dirt, Earth Moving, Sand & Gravel Family Owned & Operated for 75 years!
732-5154
County Road 4
Park Rapids, MN
1920
Celebrating 100 years!
Otto Hendrickson Post 212
American Legion Club Charitable Gambling Lic. #A00220-001
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1939
Itasca-Mantrap Park Rapids, MN
of Park Rapids “Your Hometown Community Bank” Monday-Friday 7:30-5:00 Saturday 8:00-Noon
National Bank for their support of the project. She also commended Molly Luther for her investment in downtown Park Rapids. “It’s all for the good of the community. That’s the way I see this. It’s an investment, and it’ll be fun,” Jokela said.
www.cnbbank.com (218) 732-3393
1946
NORTHERN BAIT INC.
Serving our Members for more than 80 years!
732-3377
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1948
Jim, Dave & Greg May 1992 – Jim May became Owner Same location since 1946! Retail–Wholesale • Bait & Tackle • Guns & Ammo • Electronic Licensing
218-732-5113
614 Main Ave S • Park Rapids
Serving the area for 72 years! (Established in 1948 as Jack’s Outboard)
Charlie Kellner, Owner • 732-3451 1401 E. 1st St. (Hwy. 34 E.), Park Rapids
Progress
Park Rapids Enterprise
Saturday, March 28, 2020 3
Completed roundabout opens ‘gateway to our city’ By Robin Fish rfish@arkrapids enterprise.com Construction of street and utility improvements on Park Ave. S. in Park Rapids were officially completed Nov. 7, 2019 with the opening of a highway roundabout at the intersection of U.S. Hwy. 71, Crocus Hill St. and Industrial Park Road. I m p r o v e m e n t s included widening and resurfacing Park Avenue as far north as 8th St. to conform with “urban section” standards, adding curbs and gutters, updating underground utilities, improving the Hwy. 71 frontage roads and a portion of 11th St., adding sidewalk and street lighting, and some landscaping improvements. “The planting plan was revised to reflect city forestry commission species changes in cooperation with MnDOT’s landscaping contractor,” City Planner Andrew Mack
Robin Fish/Enterprise
The roundabout at U.S. Hwy 71 and Crocus Hill St./Industrial Park Road opened in November 2019. noted. “The trees were planted in the project, with the exception of the roundabout perennials, which will be completed in the spring.” General contractor on the project was Gladen Construction of Laporte. Anderson Brothers Construction of Brainerd was the bituminous paving subcontractor. “In the 15 years I’ve
been in construction, Gladen’s has done the best job I’ve ever seen of any contractor, as dirt work guys,” said MnDOT transportation specialist Ray Wesley, who ran inspections for the project. He added that Anderson Brothers “bent over backwards to help us get this job done” and that everyone involved worked together well.
Other main subcontractors in the project were Northstar Safety (traffic control), Century Fence (striping, pavement markings), NAR Landscaping, Knife Lake Concrete, Jenkins Electric (lighting) and H & R Construction (sign installation). Construction was split into stages, allowing businesses to stay open
and detouring traffic only around the segments being built at the time. During the final stage, construction of the roundabout itself, traffic through the work area was diverted onto the County 28 truck bypass route. The project was jointly funded by the city, Hubbard County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation and
administered by MnDOT. The city’s share of the project cost a total of $1,577,866, including $411,110 in special assessments on the 21 properties directly served by the improvements. Jason Jalbert, owner of Park Rapids Ford, described the city’s communication with property owners during the project as “wide open and transparent” and said he would recommend working with Gladen Construction again. Butch De La Hunt, president and CEO of the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Comerce, said, “I’d love to see us now focus on developing this corridor. This is going to be a fabulous gateway to our city.” “It’s going to be a great improvement,” Jalbert agreed. “I hope it attracts people to be more interested in developing down here and doing business on South 71.”
Armory deal awaits state review By Robin Fish rfish@arkrapids enterprise.com Progress during the past year has been slow regarding the final steps in the City of Park Rapids’ purchase of the historic National Guard Armory. As of March 12, City Administrator Ryan Mathisrud was able to report that a tentative closing date of March
30 was in sight. “We did have a conference call relating to the Armory, in terms of what the closing logistics will be,” he told the Enterprise. “We are in the process of waiting for the final review from the state on what we previously sent … stating that everything’s complete and we’re ready to close.” Final steps, he
said, included putting together updated settlement statements and a supplemental escrow agreement. Mary Thompson with the Armory Arts and Events Center said they have not firmly scheduled any events, to ensure that nothing needs to be canceled before the city assumes ownership of the building.
GOOD LIFE
working like mad to get it right and get it out as quickly as they can. I think it’s nice to have that human connection. For the customers, too, it’s your friends and family back there making this nice meal for you,” she said. Comfy, rich tones set the mood, accentuating the classy atmosphere. “We kind of feel like we’ve just all grown up,” Luther said. “You start
a business on such a shoestring budget. … It felt really good to do it well this time. We had an interior designer out of Minneapolis, which was worth the money.” Even though Molly Poppin’s was previously located across the street, Luther said it sometimes felt “like different time zones, especially in July. Now that it’s under one roof, it’s a lot easier to help each other. It’s great for customers, too. They just finish their meals and walk over and get caramel popcorn for dessert.” The gourmet snack shop offers homemade ice cream along with inventive, flavorful popcorn. “We have a ton of support,” Molly said of the year-round operation. Submitted photo “It’s the regular, local Studio Grey was the interior designer on this renovation. “They’ve done some traffic that allows us to Minneapolis restaurants,” Luther said, noting they focus on hospitality and commercial projects. do that.”
From Page 1
“Little kids stand and press their faces to the glass and watch them. It’s so cute,” Molly said. “And we get some older gentlemen who stand there and wave.” Diners may not often think about who is preparing their food. “It’s honestly just three people
Submitted photo
The six-week renovation increased Good Life Cafe’s seating area.
ting Celebraars! 71 Ye
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1950
“As soon as we take ownership, we will be booking events and working very hard to have the center open and available and ready for business right away,” she said. “Hopefully, people will view it as an asset that they can take advantage of in the community, very regularly.” Thompson hinted that
the AAEC will likely host an event to celebrate the center’s opening, after the sale closes and required finishes are installed. For example, she said, tiered retractable seating would allow the facility to move quickly from a theater performance to an openfloor event like a wedding reception. “It will allow for really flexible use of
1950 1950
the main hall,” she said. Events that may occur during the Armory’s first season, she said, include a trade show in May, an art show in June, a civic organization’s annual meeting in September, and possibly a regional gaming exposition. “We’re just waiting right now, before we get too carried away,” she said.
1955
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Owned by David Bitker for the last 43 years
UNITS: 6’x10’, 10’x15’, 12’x20’, 12’x30’
1995: Moved into our new building. SINCE 2003 - the City has transferred nearly 4 million dollars of profits back into the community. Without those profits the City would need to increase the levy by 7% each year.
Owned & operated for over 43 years! Local & Long Distance Moving. Loading & Unloading Service
1968
1971
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1959
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(218) 732-4504
www.forestandfloral.com 7 blks. S. of Fairgrounds,
701 Fair Ave. • Park Rapids
1974 15357 US Hwy. 71, Park Rapids 732-1461
1975
Hubbard County Abstract Company, Inc. Serving the area for 45 years! Marilyn D. Wolff, President Abstracting - Title Insurance & Closings hcabstract.com contact@hcabstract.com 416 West 3rd Street, Park Rapids (218) 732-3543 • Fax (218) 732-8864
Progress
4 Saturday, March 28, 2020
Park Rapids Enterprise
Menahga welcomes students into new addition
Enterprise file photo
The Menahga School District completed construction of a new, two-story high school addition. During a dedication ceremony in September 2019, Superintendent Kevin Wellen noted that close to $5 million of the $14 million, voter-approved bond referendum dollars went to area contractors who worked on the high school addition. The space features additional classrooms, a state-of-the-art shop area, a new kitchen and lunchroom, plus a gymnasium.
Sebeka grad opens Kathryn’s On Main the Caring Heart Boutique at Tri-County Health Care in Wadena. “After graduating from high school, I moved away and lived in Minneapolis for 19 years and came back when my son was born,” she said. “I wanted to be able to be part of a small community and have that experience for my son, living in the country and not bogged down by the routines of city life – to have that freedom. Owen is now 10 and helps out in the store in the summertime by checking customers out. He also likes to walk around downtown and get to know other business owners. We joke that he could be the mayor of Park Rapids some day.” She said the main reason she chose Park Rapids is because of the tourism. “Knowing that Park Rapids is such a tourist area, it seemed more of
a natural fit than some of the surrounding towns,” she said. “I’ve had lots of comments that it’s great we offer women’s clothing.” Pickar lives between Bluegrass and Sebeka. She said one goal for the future is to get more community members out in the winter to shop downtown. She said she often gets ideas from her customers for new items to add to her shop. “I like to give hands-on customer service, and I listen to what their needs and requests are and try to build off of that,” she said. “I tend to be a little bit more of a personal shopper as I get to know the clients.” She said her new business venture has been a great experience. “There are so many people you meet in the summertime who are traveling through or have
family cabins they come to every single year,” she said. “I am just shocked at how many people from East Grand Forks and Fargo, Fergus Falls,
Alexandria and Iowa have made this a destination they come to for that family cabin or just for the shopping experience. So many people say they love
downtown Park Rapids, the cool way we park, the unique shops and the Minnesota friendliness. I think that says a lot about our community.”
the project assessment for the surrounding landowners. In addition, the HRA planned ahead From Page 1 so that site improvements For the Meadow’s Edge project, Thompson for Phase 2, done during proposes that the city Phase 1, can help meet improve Career Path from the grant’s two-to-one the current gravel road to match requirement. Asked whether more an urban street with curb, gutter, pavement and phases are in store for the underground utilities. In remainder of the HRA’s Thompson return, she hopes to use property, part of the grant to pay said they hope private
developers will see the value of their model and take charge. “A lot of times with public or non-profit developers, the goal is to stimulate the market, or show (a business model’s) ability to hit a certain market, with the expectation that private (developers) will take and do it themselves,” she said. “It’s always
better if private business can take over and do the development in the community. Sometimes … it needs a little jump start. That’s what our intention was.” Thompson said that the HRA plans to focus on other projects after Meadow’s Edge, such as supportive housing (helping people who live alone maintain their homes) and owner-
occupied rehabilitation (giving homeowners cash to make improvements). These programs are available countywide, not just in Park Rapids. Thompson said they are underutilized, so the HRA plans to do a better job of promoting them. “It’s really a way to help improve the housing stock that we already have,” she said, “which is incredibly
important because of the housing shortage that we have here. It’s really expensive to build new. So, if we don’t do a really good job of keeping what we already have up to a certain standard, we’re going to get even further and further behind.” For more information about the Hubbard County HRA, call Pfeifer at 732-9118.
By Lorie Skarpness lskarpness@ parkrapidsenterprise.com Kathy Pickar’s new store, Kathryn’s On Main, opened Memorial Day weekend of 2019 on the corner of Main and Third Street in Park Rapids. The store was formerly called Lazy One. “I still carry Lazy One products,” Pickar said. “I think the biggest misconception is that people think we’re the Lazy One store. Lazy One is just a brand. Some people don’t realize there has been a change of ownership.” The biggest change is a women’s boutique area in the back section of the store. “We have women’s apparel, purses, jewelry, giftables and more,” she said. Pickar, who grew up in Sebeka, said she has a long career in retail, most recently managing
MEADOW VIEW
1977
1976
THELEN’S EXCAVATING & SEPTIC, INC.
P: 218-732-5226 • F:218-237-5080
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1979
STEVE’S ELECTRIC SERVICE, INC.
105 Pleasant Avenue, Park Rapids
Licensed-Bonded-Insured
218-732-3445
1978
Ken’s Auto & Lock Shop Auto Shop Started in 1981 Collector and Classic Car Repair Since 2000
Residential--Commercial--Farm Installation of Electric Dual Fuel or Off Peak Electric Storage Heating Systems
Hwy. 71 S. & 150th St.
732-4602
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1981 Family Owned & Operated
BeaudryOil.com • 218-847-3777
1982
1983
1984
H Plumbing: New Construction, Remodel, Repair H Heating: Forced Air, Hot Water, Furnace Replacements, Repairs, Cleaning & Servicing H Armstrong Heating & Cooling Products
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Quilt & Yarn Shop
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Each office is Independently owned and operated.
Owner: Kelly Kimball Park Rapids, MN
1981 • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • INDUSTRIAL • Remodels
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Professional, Courteous Service
Kimball’s Sawmill & Logging
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CELEBR AT 42 YEARSING
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Owner Kathryn Pickar said her goal is to provide a personal shopping experience along with a wide variety of women’s clothing and accessories.
Keeping Families Warm for Over 39 Years! Serving the Park Rapids Lakes & Detroit Lakes Areas
Celebrating 36 years serving the quilting & knitting needs of the community! Open Mon.-Sat. 9-5, Winter Hours 10-4
Main St., Park Rapids • 218-732-3896
• Rebuilds
Specializing In Satisfied Customers
• Repairs and Expansions • Trenching & Aerial Electrical Services
Serving the Park Rapids Area Since 1981
218-732-8304
1104 Birch Street Park Rapids, MN 56470
1985 Logging the area for 35 years!
Progress
Park Rapids Enterprise
Saturday, March 28, 2020 5
Airport commission plans taxilane project By Robin Fish rfish@parkrapids enterprise.com
because of the airport. It’s a big deal. Bigger than a lot of people know.”
The Park Rapids Airport Commission looked at hangar leases, taxilane improvements and a possible “fly-in” event in 2021 at its quarterly meeting March 4 at the municipal airport. First, however, they discussed recent testimony by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to the airport’s importance to the area. City Planner Ryan Mathisrud reported that in a recent MnDOT report on the economic impact of aviation, the Park Rapids Airport ranked fifth of 118 general aviation airports statewide as to employment and sixth as to economic activity. “We all feel that we have a bigger airport, that there’s a lot going on here,” he said. “This kind of backs it up a little bit.” “We’ve had this sense that the Park Rapids airport, pound for pound, in terms of its aviation capability relative to the size of the community that supports it, is very high,” agreed Matt Zitzow, project engineer with TKDA of St. Paul. “It’s nice to get that confirmed through other means.” He stressed that the airport’s economic impact extends not only to on-airport businesses, “but also to the larger region, tourism, recreation, etc.” Realtor, aviator and commission member Thom Peterson attested to the fact that when he shows real estate to people who are thinking about retiring here, the first two places he shows them are the airport and the medical facilities. “I challenge anybody here to find another set of facilities like this in a community of 3,800 people in a county of 18,000 nationwide,” he said. “I’ve actually sold property to people that have chosen Park Rapids
Taxiway project
Zitzow shared a diagram depicting the next phase of improvements proposed at the airport, for which he and Mathisrud are preparing a proposal for the city council. The project would extend two existing taxilanes and complete dirt work and site preparation for seven private box hangars and a future public T-hangar, and add a new taxiway to improve traffic flow and safety in the hangar area. Zitzow said TKDA submitted the grant initiation request to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) late last year to support the taxilane parts of the project. Continuing the expected project timetable, he said, the city would apply to the federal government this year for a design grant, then apply in 2021 for a construction grant. “The request at the local level for budget year 2020 would be in the ballpark of $15,000 to fund that design and collect bids,” he said. “The remainder of the projects costs, locally, ballpark $170,000 spread over budget years 2021 and 2022, to support the physical construction.” Mathisrud said the proposed project is represented in the airport’s capital improvement plan. Zitzow said that if all goes according to plan, the work would be substantially done by the fall of 2021 and the box hangar sites could then be developed. Airport business services consultant John De Coster said one of the biggest impediments to growing the airport’s business has been the lack of developable hangar sites to market to potential clients, and not being able to tell them when sites will become available. “The good news about this is, now we have
1985
Open Mon.-Sat. 9-5 Lunch served 11-3
TKDA Project Engineer Matt Zitzow presented the airport commission with a proposal to extend taxilanes I and J, add taxilane S and prepare sites for public and private hangar construction as well as a possible future taxilane H. priorities for a timeframe, pending clearer council approval.” leasing and stronger enforcement language. Taking care of City council business representative Erika De Coster presented an Randall moved to update of the T-hangar recommend the policy leasing policy, which he revised after observing update for city council pending “disturbing” trends in approval, the use of the hangars revisions suggested by the since the policy was last commission. The motion passed without dissent. updated in 2018. Randall also moved He noted that although there is a waiting list to to support a 2.5 percent lease the hangars, some increase in the hangar current tenants are using lease rates for 2020recommended by them for purposes other 21, than aviation – such as De Coster. The motion storage of ground vehicles passed unopposed. De Coster raised the or equipment. Among the policy revisions are topic of hosting a fly-in
1986
Dedicated to helping you take better care of yourself
001556794r1
Serving the area for 35 years! 218-732-4465
www.lmsupply.com 1307 1st Street East, Park Rapids
1991
Akeley -1985 Nevis -1978
Enjoy Homemade Soups, Sandwiches & Pies • Soup & Sandwich Specials •Bulk Food Items • Gluten-Free Lunch Items Available • Quality Vitamins & Supplements 218.732.9063 120 3rd St. W., Park Rapids
1992
001703498r1
Wadena Office 223 N. Jefferson St. Wadena 56482 Park Rapids Location Opened in 2000 618 1st Street East, Park Rapids Tuesdays 10 am - 3 pm, other times by appt. Toll Free 1-800-631-4946 218-631-4966
1996
1995
ADVANCED AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE
Celebrating our 25th Anniversary!
Amish Oak & Americana Furnishings
Serving the Area for 30 years!
Welding • Machine Shop • Pontoon • Deck Handrails Boat & Dock Repairs • Driveway Gates • Walk-ins Welcome
George Darchuk Sr., Owner 1608 Industry Ave., Park Rapids, MN 56470 (218) 732-1427 • Fax: (218) 732-1439 www.darchuksfab.com
We are a
403 South Main – Park Rapids 800-286-7625 • 732-9544 www.amishfurnishings.com Open Year ‘Round 001556585r1
223 Main Ave. S. Park Rapids, MN 56470
1994 Serving the community for over 25 years!
Hwy. 71 S., Park Rapids • 237-DANS (3267)
55+ & Cottage-Style Apartments 218-732-0730
www.dansall.com
MARINE, ATV & SNOW SERVICE CENTER
Office: 705 E. River Drive, Park Rapids www.gmmco.org
1996
1996
Residential • Commercial • Industrial Farm • Trenching • Aerial Work 24-Hr. Service
Auto Care Center
H ffman Electric
Free Estimates
2506 Albert Ave. S., Park Rapids, MN
Full Service Automotive Repair Specializing in electrical & driveability problems Family Owned & Operated 732-1164 501 MAIN AVE S. PARK RAPIDS 1-888-732-1164
218-732-9157 PARK RAPIDS, MN 54670
732-8374 • 218-820-6247
1998
1999
1999
Residential • Business Commercial
218-573-3131 • 800-573-0724
218-732-4038
1994: Cottage Style Opened 1995: Senior Building Opened
Raised Concrete Floors Insulated Ceiling • Roll-Up Doors 7 Different Sizes: 5’x10’ - 12’x30’
(218)732-8285
www.upnorthstoragemn.com 18858 Eagle Bend Road - 3 miles east of Park Rapids on Hwy 34
®
Winery & Gallery Gallery opened in 2000 New owners: Steve & Kristin Twait 2016
35295 State 64 Laporte, MN
Donn Hoffman, Owner
www.hoffmanelectricparkrapids.com • hoffmane@unitelc.com Licensed, Bonded, Insured
Nick’s service
Chris & Lynn Niemeyer
sales@swiinteriors.com • www.swiinteriors.com
In business and glad to be here!
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm Sat. Winter Hours: 9am-Noon Sat. Starting April: 9am-2pm
SELF-STORAGE CENTER GATED SECURITY ACCESS
CUSTOM CABINETRY
Fuller's Gun & Pawn
1999 - Moved into Park Rapids 2002 - Moved to current location
FOREIGN & DOMESTIC
Amish Furniture...Yet so much more!
its officers for 2020, including Chairman Donald Douglas and ViceChair David Konshok. Commissioners also debated the importance of updating the airport’s arrival-departure building, whether a renovation or a complete rebuild is needed, how to fund it and what needs to be done, in De Coster’s words, “to get this off dead center.” Randall said the appearance of the A-D building should show arriving visitors that “we care about this space.”
1991
1993
National Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
1996
1990 FABRICATION AND STAINLESS STEEL WORKS, INC.
BRIAN HILLESLAND, NBC-HIS
Park Rapids
sometime in 2021, noting that similar events have been successful at other airports – including one in Appleton, Wis. where 200 airplanes came. “It would be neat to also have construction going on at the same time,” he said, “where they can see that these taxiways and the pad sites are actually being built. It’s a great advertising tool.” He said he will bring an action plan to the commission’s next meeting to begin plans for the event. In other business, the commission re-elected
218-224-3535
forestedgewinery.com
1988-1999 ~ Steve’s Conoco 1999-2006 ~ Nick’s Conoco 2006 ~ Nick’s Service Sept. 1, 2017 ~ Moved to new location in the former Ken’s Transmission Shop Hwy 71 South (218) 732-5119 | Nick Gartner, Owner After Hours Towing (218) 252-6440 14632 150th Street - Hwy 71 South Park Rapids
Progress
6 Saturday, March 28, 2020
Park Rapids Enterprise
Pamela Russell
Todd Russell
New owners at Long Lake Theater to present high-quality theatrical productions and also hope to feature live music, concerts, comedians and other entertainment.” The Russels said they love the diversity of the performing arts and support artists of many walks. Youth performers have been a huge part of their theater past and present, and they hope to develop a summer youth camp performance program once they get settled into the community. “We greatly look forward to the summer and settling in for a season of fun,” she said.
By Lorie Skarpness lskarpness@parkrapids
Matthew Capecchi/Enterprise
“We’ve had overwhelming support from people all over, places you don’t realize they know you,” said Marvin Sauer, who co-owns Lobo’s Bar & Grill with wife Julie. “Stop by for a sandwich and enjoy the beautiful drive,” Julie said.
Lobo’s rebuilds after fire By Lorie Skarpness lskarpness@ parkrapidsenterprise.com
Marvin Sauer own Lobo’s, located on Hwy. 200 in Lake Itasca. Marvin did the construction with the After a fire destroyed help of subcontractors. Lobo’s Bar and Grill in “We started cleaning up October 2018, the business two weeks after it burned went through a complete and opened Aug. 1, 2019,” rebuilding process that he said. “The major part took 10 months. Julie and of it I did myself.”
He said they just about doubled the size of the kitchen. “We’ve gained a little bit of space,” he said. Marvin said the goal was to keep the same look they had before the fire. “We made the bar a little bit bigger and put in a nice, stone fireplace, too,” he
said. “We kept almost all of the same staff we had before the fire, too.” Marvin said business has been growing, and with all the snow over the winter, there have been a lot of snowmobilers stopping by. “It’s really been a good winter,” he said.
Todd and Pamela Russell are the new owners of Long Lake Theater. “We are excited to bring a bit of new life into Long Lake Theater,” she said. “We both have backgrounds in theater and music and bring 20 years of directing, writing and producing experience.” The duo has written over 50 original musicals. “We have a great passion and belief that everyone can do theater,” she said. “We plan to continue
Meier is new owner of West Side Auto By Robin Fish rfish@parkrapids enterprise.com
Submitted photo
Bob Meier purchased West Side Auto last fall.
1999
2000
Bob Meier, Park Rapids’ second assistant fire chief and previously an employee at Park Rapids Auto Center, purchased West Side Auto on Oct. 14, 2019. Scott and Joanne Gilbertson had previously owned the auto repair shop at 1102 1st St. W. in Park Rapids since 2005.
2000
Serving seniors for 20 years!
COMMERCIAL, RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, REMODELING RESIDENTIAL, REMODELING
Comfort • Compassion • Community
218-237-8528
www.parkrapidsaviation.com
2001
Your Complete Avionics Solutions Partner
716 FIRST STREET EAST
Daniel.Pike@EdwardJones.com/Jay.Pike@EdwardJones.com
Avionics
Mon.-Fri. 9 am-8 pm Sat. 9 am-5 pm Sun. 10 am-3 pm
301 Airport Rd., Hwy 71 South, Park Rapids
www.parkrapidsavionics.com
2003 Breakfast Now Available! Serving fine Italian espresso drinks, wine, great lunches and antipasto daily. Also, undeniable desserts and baked treats. Open Mon-Sat: 7am-6pm Sunday: 8:30am-4pm Internet Access/Solarium Meeting Area
116 Third Street West • Park Rapids, MN 56470
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218 732 7625
2005
2002
Northern Convenience
6am-11pm 7 days a week! www.coborns.com
218-237-1525
209 W. 1st St., Park Rapids 732-0182 (store) • 732-0836 (Rx)
Park Rapids • 732-1940
Lottery Deli • RV Dump to use towards FREE food, gas and car washes
Air Conditioning • 22 washers • 19 dryers
Kinkel Enterprises, Inc. - Jay & Nancy Kinkel
1008 E. 1st St, Park Rapids • 237-5800
2005 Serving the Area for 15 years!
Your Complete Convenience Store
2003
2003 Open 7 days a week 6 am-10 pm with attendant on duty
Insured
218-732-0026 218-732-0026
Owners: Ed & Beth Heltunen www.rosehavenliving.com 37 6th St. SE, Menahga • (218) 564-4268
Grocery, Deli, Dry Cleaning & Pharmacy
Low Prices & Freshness Guaranteed!
Tim Ulvin
License# PM63832 Tim Ulvin Licensed,PM63832 Bonded, License# Insured Licensed, Bonded,
www.ulvinplumbing.com
2002
Park Rapids
2000 2000
CABIN OPENING AND CLOSING www.ulvinplumbing.com
Peace of Mind for You and Your Loved One
Brighter Banking
Federally Insured by NCUA
2005
Over 60 Years Combined Experience
2005
001393654r1
2002 WARNICK’S
Thank you for your loyalty and referrals!
JANITORIAL SERVICE and Floor Care Commercial - Residential Bonded - Insured Carpet Cleaning Tile Cleaning Home & Office Cleaning Window Cleaning Upholstery Cleaning Odor Remediation
218-732-5019
Cell: 218-255-0343
JEFFREY M. WARNICK, OWNER
2004
(218) 237-8000 • www.trustarfcu.com NMLS #401962
PO BOX 730 • PARK RAPIDS, MN POWWW.ULVINPLUMBING.COM BOX 730 • PARK RAPIDS, MN 001393654r1
001843689r1
P.O. Box 307 Hwy. 71 South
Jay L. Pike - Financial Advisor 2017: Daniel Pike started in the business as Financial Advisor (218)237-6735 • Member SIPC
Meier works with three full-time employees. He said not much has changed, except the business’s logo. “Everything here is just business as usual,” he said. “Everything’s been going great. We get a lot of community support here.” Open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., West Side Auto does regular vehicle maintenance and repair. Call 237-7600 for more information.
Purchased in 2004 by Craig & Carrie Mackey Downtown Laporte
Celebrating 12 Years!
Mon.-Fri. 7:30am - 8pm Sat. & Sun. 8am - 8pm
(218) 224-2202
2006
CUSTOM HOME BUILDER
Free Estimates • Insured • Licensed
Eric Munson • Owner-Contractor • License #BC707083
218-237-2425 www.emconincmn.com
218-237-5125
Your plumbing, heating & cooling, HVAC & commercial refrigeration service specialists
24 HOUR SERVICE Lic. #38112PM
leadingedgemech.com
001557197r1
Quality Craftsmanship For All Your Building Needs
Bob Meier - New Owner as of Oct. 2019 We Service All Makes & Models
Cars,All Vans, Suv’s, & Diesels, Boats & Trailers We Trucks, Service Makes Models Mon.-Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Trucks, Cars, Vans, Suv’s, Diesels, Boats & Trailers 218.237.7600 Master Mon.-Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Hwy. 34 West - Park Rapids Technicians
218.237.7600 • Hwy. 34 West - Park Rapids
Angela Walther Owner & Certified Master Groomer 732-9862 1109 Western Ave. • Park Rapids See more on our website: angiesgroomnboard.com
Progress
Park Rapids Enterprise
Ark Animal Hospital moves
Submitted photo
The Ark Animal Hospital moved to its new location at 17261 State Hwy. 34 in Park Rapids in May 2019. The business is owned by Dr. Mia Long and was previously located on CSAH 4. The other veterinarian practicing at the clinic is Dr. Megan Hockenson.
Saturday, March 28, 2020 7
Voigts and Rossmans purchase C’Mon Inn
Lorie Skarpness/Enterprise
Jeff and Angie Voigt and Missy and Craig Rossman took over ownership of C’Mon Inn in Park Rapids in May 2019. The biggest change they made was putting on a new roof.
Arvig strengthens tech services in Park Rapids
“No job too small”
JOSH’S COLLISION CENTER Celebrating 11 years Serving the area!
17 years experience
(218) 237-5660
13267 Eureka Rd., Park Rapids, MN 56470 www.joshscollision.net Shop Manager/Owner: Josh Kruchowski
2010
Celebrating 10 years of Service!
“Small enough to know you, Large enough to SERVE you!”
L
will be 10 times faster than the previously available fastest internet speeds available to area residents. ► Additionally, the same speed is available to some residents living near Long Lake, the village of Hubbard, Fish Hook Lake and the north side of Portage Lake. ► The work completed in 2019 was the culmination of a multi-year effort to complete upgrades needed to support DOCSIS 3.1, optimize the outside plant to ensure excellent performance and stability. Sixty nodes were upgraded in the area, with 3,322 structures passed during maintenance sweeps and technology upgrades. In addition, 24 organizations in Park Rapids received donations, including the more than $4,300 donated to the school through the Arvig School Partnership Program.
2010 S
Lindow Surveying
M & Mapping, LLC
INDEPENDENT • ACCURATE • RELIABLE...
Serving the area for over a decade! Kevin F. Lindow, Land Surveyor
218-237-0065 • www.lindowsurveying.com 1301 Park Ave. S. (Hwy. 71 S.) Park Rapids, MN 56470
2011 Sara Swanson, Roger Zahn, Trent Wilcox, Matt Enger, Zachary Johnson
218-237-7770
120 N. Main Ave., P.O. Box 87, Park Rapids, MN 56470 www.tszlaw.com (218) 732-7236
www.WolffSimonRealEstate.com
2015
2014
2006
2007
Fine Furnishings Indoor & Out!
Full Service Real Estate Brokerage Serving The Entire Lakes Region
218-237-1600
AVENSON ELECTRIC
AffinityRealEstate.com
2010
2010
Celebrating
5 years!
DAILY SPECIALS GLUTEN-FREE AVAILABLE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER
Home Style Biscuits & Gravy, Stuffed Hashbrowns, Juicy Burgers, BBQ Ribs, Broasted Chicken, Homemade Desserts & Many More Mouth Watering Selections! •FAMILY FRIENDLY • CATERING AVAILABLE
Sunday - Thursday 7am-7pm • Friday & Saturday 7am-8pm Summer hours start May 1st: Sun.-Thur. 7am-8pm Fri.-Sat. 7am-9pm
AT THE JUNCTION OF 34&64 • AKELEY ,MN • 218-652-2233
Celebrating 10 years!
MANY LAKES HOME CARE, LLC PROFESSIONAL • RELIABLE • DEPENDABLE Our Mission Is To Promote And Protect Your Independence
218-732-9394
708 Forest View Avenue, Park Rapids, MN 56470 www.manylakeshomecare.com
218-237-2300
email: manylakeshomecare@yahoo.com
1308 1st St. E., Park Rapids, MN (Across from L&M) www.timparkerfamilyglass.com
2012
2014
2015
2015
Gary & Jayne Mills 218-255-0208
218-252-9350
AUTO DETAILING, TRUCK & AUTO ACCESSORIES 1916 Albert Ave S., Hwy 71 S. Park Rapids
Licensed • Bonded & Insured • MN Lic. EA700072
www.millstrailers.com
randyavenson@msn.com www.parkrapidselectric.com
2016
218-237-0208
2016 2016
Serving the area as an electrician for 27 years!
Residential • Commercial • Farm Bucket Truck • Steffes Off-Peak Heating Systems
218-732-3818 Lance Hansen
Licensed, Bonded, Insured • MN Lic. #EA006419 lancehansen@live.com • hansenselectric.com
Serving the area for 5 years!
218-237-5927
contact.us@paintedoaks.biz
• Custom Apparel • Embroidery • Long Arm Quilting
• Trophies/Awards • Laser Engraving • Promotional Products
13515 Egret Road • Park Rapids • www.paintedoaks.biz
2017 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Dec. 16th, 2016: Jamie Kueber, OD purchased Bruhn Optical. Feb. 12th, 2018: Name officially changed to Kueber Eye Care (218) 732-8535 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-5:00pm 1011 1st St. E. (In the Bruhn Plaza Building) www.kuebereyecare.com
802 1st St. East (Hwy 34 E). Park Rapids, MN
(218)732-4513
New Owner January 2017: Jeff Cwikla
Continuing the tradition of Ace Hardware in the Park Rapids Lakes Area!
001705179r1
2015
218-237-3333
110 4th St. West, Park Rapids Open Year ‘Round
“No job too small!” FAST, FRESH & 218-732-1940 MADE-TO-ORDER! Mon.-Fri. 10:30 am-7 pm • Sat. 10:30 am-4 pm Closed Sundays Located in Northern Convenience, Hwy. 34 E., Park Rapids
600 Park Ave. S., Park Rapids
Expert Legal Services • Local Knowledge
Eric Wolff & T.J. Simon, Owners
Located in Park Rapids at 1217 1st Street East
Submitted photo
Fred Stinar, an Arvig combination technician, works on a pedestal in Park Rapids.
001393630r1
2009
This is evident in our 2019 network upgrades in the area in order to expand service offerings and increase the speeds available for customers.” Not only is Arvig committed to improving the speeds it offers, but it is also exceeding state broadband speed objectives set by the Minnesota Department of Economic and Employment Development (DEED). Highlights of Arvig technology enhancements to the area in 2019 include the following: ► Nearly all residents within the city of Park Rapids are able to receive 1 gigabit-per-second (Gbps) broadband internet speed from Arvig. It is delivered using the latest broadband technology, DOCSIS 3.1 for the nerds among us, which allows services to be delivered by simply upgrading the customer’s modem. At 1,000 megabits per second, the new service
001704864r1
As employers increasingly embrace telecommuting for their workforce, opportunities for residents to choose a place to live based on attractive community features can outweigh decisions based on proximity to an office. This is an advantage for rural communities, like those in the Park Rapids area, according to a news release from Arvig. “In order to sustain population growth in rural areas, nurture vibrant local communities far into the future and further use of telecommuting, broadband infrastructure must be strengthened,” said David Arvig, vice president and chief operating officer of the telecommunications company. “Arvig is ensuring its broadband network is able to reach more people, with higher speeds, to meet the needs of Park Rapids area business and residents.
Progress
8 Saturday, March 28, 2020
Park Rapids Enterprise
Construction remains strong in Park Rapids By Robin Fish rfish@parkrapids enterprise.com “Park Rapids is very busy,” said city building official Brad Bail with WS iN-Depth Inspections, LLC, in a Feb. 19 interview. “A lot of things going on. People are building and moving in. It’s really busy compared to other communities that we work in and around.” Besides new businesses, Bail said he is seeing new and better housing coming into town, such as the Meadow View Apartments that opened Jan. 1. As for 2020, “It’s probably going to be just as busy or busier,” Bail said. “There have been a ton of people calling and asking questions. That doesn’t always equate to things actually happening, but it is a pretty good indicator that people are interested in doing something – which usually means if they don’t do it this year, they might do it the next year.” Upcoming projects in or around Park Rapids during the next year or two may include a microbrewery on Main Ave., a gas station-convenience store at the U.S. Hwy. 71-State Hwy. 34 corner, a second phase of workforce housing next to Meadow View, an expansion at the RDO potato plant, airport taxilane improvements, a fertilizer facility and an Enbridge pipeline maintenance shop, Bail said. “Then, the conversion of the old (CHI St. Joseph’s Health Community) Dental Clinic into some
Data courtesy of the Park Rapids Planning Department. Infogram by Enterprise staff.
new apartments,” he added, indicating a redevelopment project across Pleasant Ave. from city hall. Meanwhile, Park Rapids City Planner Andrew Mack noted, the dental clinic is moving into a former Park Rapids Eye Clinic location being renovated immediately south of city hall. “Construction, both commercial and residential, has stayed fairly strong in the community over the past couple years,” said Mack. “I see that trend continuing over the next two years.” In terms of public-sector projects, Mack noted that the city has applied for a Minnesota DNR Land and Water Conservation grant
to rebuild tennis courts at Depot Park, while the Park Rapids Tennis Association has been raising funds to cover the local match for the project. Mack also noted that the city is running short of industrial park property. “We’re down to about 25 acres of developable, shovelready sites for industrial development,” he said, adding that discussions are underway between the city, Hubbard County, the business community and the Heartland Lakes Development Commission to prepare for the next 40-50 years of industrial and commercial growth. According to the city planning office’s monthly permit reports, Park
Rapids issued 122 building permits for a total value of $14,533,368 during 2019. These permits included: ► One new apartment building (Meadow View), valued at $2.2 million. ► Eight single-family homes for a total value of $1,651,200, an average value of $206,400 each. ► Seven new commercial or related structures for a total value of $899,804, averaging $128,543 each. ► Five public and quasipublic buildings totaling $258,981 in value, an average of $51,796. ► 28 commercial remodels or additions, totaling $8.82 million in value, an average of $315,000. ► 63 residential remodels or additions,
totaling $671,359 in value, an average of $10,656. ► Two garages (new or addition), totaling $32,003 in value. Among the public and commercial permits issued for more than $10,000 in value were: ► A $47,445 remodel at the Hubbard County Courthouse, permitted in February 2019. ► A $24,511 repair at the county transfer station and a $75,000 commercial remodel at the Good Life Cafe in March. ► A $54,102 remodel at Walmart, a $11,200 remodel at Hubbard County Abstract Co., a $10,000 addition for the Antique Engine and Tractor Club and a $20,000 new commercial accessory building at Smoky Hills Art in April. ► A $22,500 new commercial permit for the Rotary Fitness Park, a $12,000 repair for the commercial building at 501 1st St. E., two remodel permits for a combined $167,142 at the Armory and a $120,000 remodel at Faithbridge Church in May. ► A $130,174 new commercial structure for Ferrellgas, a $15,360 remodel at St. Johns Lutheran Church and a $169,570 roofing repair at CHI St. Joseph’s Health in June. ► A $19,000 remodel at the DAC, a $16,100 remodel at L.A. Rossman Distributing and a $28,607 remodel at Monika’s in July. ► A $120,000 Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity home in August. ► A $15,000 commercial remodel at what is now
the H Salon, A $177,100 repair at the Hubbard County Public Works office, An $80,000 repair at the C’Mon Inn and a $20,000 repair at L&M Fleet in September. ► A commercial demolition permit for Smoky Hills Art issued in October. (No value is recorded for demo permits.) ► A $957,500 addition and remodel for the Community Dental Clinic’s new location just south of city hall, issued in November. ► A $7.2 million remodel for Essentia Health at the former Pamida location and a $15,000 remodel for a commercial unit at Bruhn Plaza in December. The city’s planning office also issued 47 plu mb ing pe rmits during 2019, collecting $2,555 in permit fees. These included permits for seven new singlefamily homes, one apartment building, three commercial buildings, one public building, 15 commercial and 20 residential remodels or repairs, 14 residential and seven commercial meters. Other planning department actions included issuing three conditional use permits (one of which was later revoked), a property line setback variance, 10 zoning or future land use map amendments, five amendments to the city’s zoning and code ordinances, one new plat, three property line adjustments and four grading and filling permits.
1949
High-tech inline inspection tools allow us to examine our pipelines inch by inch, from the inside out.
Safety is not only a core value at Enbridge—it’s the very foundation of our business.
$900 million on programs to keep our North American pipeline network healthy and fit for purpose.
The protection of the public, and the environment, are paramount to Enbridge. We use the latest tools, technologies and strategies—while closely monitoring the products we transport—to keep our pipelines operating safely, reliably and in an environmentally responsible manner.
The Line 3 Replacement Project is a $2.6-billion private investment in Minnesota. It will create jobs, an economic boost for communities and an extra $35 million per year in tax revenue for many years to come.
Enbridge’s Line 3 Replacement Project is a safety- and maintenance-driven initiative. In 2018, we spent more than
And most importantly, it’s a project based on doing the responsible thing. Minnesota needs a new Line 3. Learn more at enbridge.com/line3us.