City of Dawson
The Goal
The City of Dawson and its Economic Development Authority faced a critical shortage of quality housing options, which was limiting workforce stability and long-term community growth. Despite market demand, the City struggled to attract private developers due to small-market constraints, limited project scale, and perceived financial risk.
The Solution
Ehlers partnered with the City and EDA to provide the financial analysis and financing strategy necessary to move the project forward. Through detailed projections and cash flow analysis, Ehlers supported the City’s application to Minnesota Housing’s Workforce Development Program and structured tax-exempt debt financing that made the development feasible.
The Outcome
The City secured $1.31 million from Minnesota Housing and issued $1.87 million in general obligation tax abatement bonds to deliver 10 new two-bedroom workforce housing units. The development addressed a critical housing shortage, strengthened workforce attraction and retention, and supported Dawson’s long-term community and economic vitality.