The Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Cook County, Minnesota (the “HRA”) is requesting proposals from qualified entities for the development of residential housing in Cook County, Minnesota.

In May of 2023, the HRA entered into an Option Agreement for a 40-acre parcel (county parcel ID 20-203-1200) on Cramer Road in Schroeder Township (the “Property”; see Appendix A), for the development of multiple residential housing units. The Property is approximately 2 miles from Highway 61 and is located on the north side of Cramer Road; the property to the west is residential and parcels to the east and north are Federal and State Forest. Though the Property is currently zoned Light Industrial, the HRA will apply for rezoning if a proposal is selected and does not anticipate any issue with its application being approved by the Planning Commission.

The top priority of the HRA is to encourage the development of new, long-term housing throughout Cook County. This RFP seeks proposals from qualified developers and builders that will maximize density on the Property while adhering to the zoning code, avoiding wetlands, and fitting with the character of the area.

The HRA recognizes the high costs and geographic challenges in the market today, particularly in Cook County, and is prepared to provide the property to the selected respondent for a significantly discounted price, subject to the scoring criteria as discussed within the RFP.

Finally, the HRA will serve as an advocate and resource; qualified projects may be eligible for additional funding assistance to address financing gaps.

To view the entire RFP document, please visit: https://www.cookcountyhra.org.

Issue Date: October 16, 2023

Proposals Due: December 22, 2022

Questions about this RFP should be directed to Executive Director Jason Hale: [email protected].

About Cook County, MN 

Cook County encompasses the sovereign nation of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; the City of Grand Marais; the Townships of Lutsen, Tofte and Schroeder; and unincorporated areas in the easternmost part of Minnesota’s North Shore. Cook County Government values transparency and strives to deliver superior services and programs in a fiscally responsible way. We value the dignity of all County residents and seek to create a community that provides opportunity for all. Many of our offices are in the Cook County Courthouse at 411 W 2nd St, Grand Marais 55604. Other departments and facilities, such as the Airport, Community Center, Highway and Sheriff are located nearby. Call 218-387-3000 or visit: https://co.cook.mn.us