By Jan Gilmer
The Jordan Economic Development Authority (EDA) met on December 1, 2025 to consider a façade grant request and review several community development updates heading into the winter season. The meeting included discussion of a new monument sign proposal, upcoming community events, construction activity, and progress on several local development projects.
Façade Grant Application Approved
Administrator Nikunen presented a Façade Matching Grant application for the property located at 108 Creek Lane S. The request seeks support for the installation of a new monument sign intended to improve visibility for the business.
The applicant was present at the meeting and explained that despite operating in the location for several years, many patients still report difficulty finding the building. The proposed sign will cost more than $20,000, and the applicant requested the full eligible grant amount of $10,000. Staff confirmed the project meets all design standards and land-use requirements.
The EDA voted to approve the full grant request.
Management Report
Community Events and Activities
Nikunen shared updates on this weekend’s Jordan Dazzle Parade, scheduled for Saturday, December 6. The event will feature a parade, food trucks, and the annual tree lighting. Last year’s event brought approximately 5,500 people to the downtown area between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.
Downtown businesses are participating in the annual window decorating contest, and this year residents can join a separate holiday decorating contest. The Community Education “Wheels on Wednesday” group will serve as judges. The Creamery won last year after serving ice cream, while this year Pekarna’s plans to serve sausage and City Hall staff plan to serve warm cider.
Delia’s is expected to open soon for the season, pending staffing needs.
Construction activity has naturally slowed for winter.
Strains of the Earth Ribbon Cutting
Nikunen and Councilmember Pho attended the ribbon cutting for Strains of the Earth, a local cannabis business. Though approximately 40 licenses for cannabis have been issued across Minnesota, this is only the second cannabis retail opening in the state.
Social media engagement has already reached more than 172,000 people.
The business does not yet carry flower but does offer vape pens and operates a lounge with live music on Fridays and Saturdays. Cannabis beverages are served to adults age 21 and older.
Pho highlighted the extensive work completed in the building’s caves. Nikunen noted that cannabis retail occupies only a small portion of the structure, which has been finished attractively. The upper level will be available for long-term rentals through Airbnb, while the lower level will support retail and office uses.
Development and Infrastructure Updates
IDP Project: Permitting is underway, with the goal of completing approvals in December. Commissioner Mack noted substantial land-clearing progress. Nikunen mentioned being tagged frequently on social media posts highlighting Michaels Foods’ community contributions.
New Water Tower Land: The City has purchased 31.28 acres near Highway 21 and Delmar Avenue for a future water tower, which itself will require only 3–5 acres. As utilities are extended, the remaining land could support light commercial, industrial, or residential development. Nikunen has already received interest from developers.
Xcel Building: Architects and engineers determined that a central pole and front posts cannot be removed as previously thought, requiring a revised façade bid.
Scott County CDA Grant: The City has received a grant for a development study on land near County Road 59, which will be acquired from the CDA. Previous soil testing indicated subgrade conditions for a candy store project; additional testing will assess suitability for single-level retail, restaurant, or other commercial uses.
The grant provides $25,000 toward a study estimated at $50,000–$60,000. Utility and traffic studies have already been completed, with early guidance that land above the hill is best suited for residential, and land below for highway/commercial uses.
2026 Budget
The 2026 budget and levy, including the EDA levy, must be approved at the December 8 City Council meeting. The proposal has been reviewed previously with preliminary approval and no changes for next week’s vote.
Commissioner Comments
Commissioners expressed appreciation for the Cty 9 detour communication, noting the helpfulness of printed flyers. Nikunen explained that the City pushed MnDOT for stronger communication efforts, resulting in the added flyers, door-knocking, and expanded social media updates.
City Council Member Update
Councilmember Schuh announced that the Commercial Club is accepting donations of new winter wear for children—coats, hats, mittens, scarves, and more—with items distributed through Jordan Public Schools, primarily at the elementary level.
Donations will be accepted at City Hall through the end of the day on Wednesday, December 3, though late donations can be accommodated. Items are typically delivered in early January.
The next EDA meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 5, 2026.