Olmsted County Staff Makes Biermann House Recommendation

Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) -  The Olmsted County Board could decide the fate of the Biermann House at its next meeting.

A county board committee was told Tuesday staff is recommending a proposal from the Rochester Parks Department that would transfer the historic building to the city.

The staff report indicated the city also wants the 70 acres of land adjacent to the Mayowood-area site. The Parks Dept. has told the county it intends to maintain the site for ongoing public use. The estimated cost of repairs to the home has been put at $500,000 and the Parks Dept. told the county it has a firm commitment from an anonymous benefactor to cover the expense. Local businessman Joe Powers submitted the only other proposal. He told the county he would renovate the home and develop two or three apartments.

Meanwhile, the board may soon be acquiring more property.

The county board committee was told a purchase agreement has been finalized for property located along 4th St south of the Government Center. It currently operates as a small strip mall with a handful of businesses. The owner approached the county about a possible sale. The committee was told the purchase is for long-term purposes.

News Update: Gas may hit $3 a gallon soon.

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