Development News for New Ulm, Minnesota

City Council Adopts Ordinance for Airport Adjoining Property Annexation

The City Council approved the second consideration and adoption of Ordinance Number 2026-112, which approves the annexation of property adjoining the New Ulm Municipal Airport. The summary of the ordinance will be published in the newspaper. This action finalizes the annexation process for this specific property.

City Council Authorizes $2.28 Million in General Obligation Bonds for Improvement Projects

The City Council authorized the issuance of General Obligation Permanent Improvement Revolving Fund Bonds, Series [date TBD], in the amount of $2,280,000. The terms and conditions of sale were established, with the sale date set for August 4th, 2026, at 10 a.m. This action funds improvements within the city.

City Council Approves Rezoning for Medium Density Residential Development on North Highland Avenue

The City Council approved a petition to rezone a 1.9-acre property from Agricultural Open Space (AOS) to R3 Medium Density Residential District at 2405 North Highland Avenue. The planning commission had unanimously recommended approval with three conditions: screening along the south property line, a shared stormwater plan for the subject lot and an adjacent lot, and cross-easements between the two lots for utilities and access. The rezoning allows for a maximum of 15 dwelling units, though the developer is proposing 16, which will require a variance. The project includes four buildings with two apartments each on the ground floor and two upstairs, two detached garages, and a stormwater retention pond. A private driving lane is proposed to connect to North Highland Avenue, with city and county engineers having no concerns about this access. Safety signage will be required near the adjacent bike trail, and the city may also provide signage on the trail itself. The development will include 40 off-street parking spaces, exceeding the ordinance requirement of two per unit. Screening provisions will be met via landscaping or solid fencing. Concerns raised by residents included incompatibility with neighborhood character, traffic safety on the bike trail, spot zoning, and potential decreases in property values. The council discussed the comprehensive plan's need for housing and the consistency of R3 zoning with adjacent properties.

City Approves Cannon Shoot for Military Appreciation Night at Johnson Park

The City Council authorized the Dwall Battery to conduct a cannon shoot at Johnson Park (500 North German Street) on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. The event will occur after the national anthem and will involve firing up to three rounds from the cannon in celebration of Military Appreciation Night.