Blue Earth County approves $660,496 for Breckenridge Path townhomes RAD conversion repairs

Luke Peterson, construction manager for the city of Mankato, told the Blue Earth County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 21 that a capital needs assessment and feasibility report identified a package of repairs required for the Breckenridge Path townhomes as part of a Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) conversion.

Peterson said the work identified in the feasibility report includes parking-lot pavement repair and marking; audiovisual and alarm installation; landscaping; plumbing and HVAC; flooring and appliance replacement; exterior concrete; electrical upgrades; and apartment-building signage replacement. The estimated cost is $660,496.

County staff said the proposed funding source is the Blue Earth County Economic Development Authority housing capital fund balance for fiscal year 2026; staff reported a fund balance of $912,000 for that capital budget. Peterson said the county is being asked to have the repairs under contract before the RAD conversion and that the work must be completed within 12 months of the conversion.

Commissioner Patty moved the motion to approve the improvement project (CIP number 11208) and a second was recorded. The board voted by voice and the chair announced the motion carries.

The project timeline presented to the board estimates a February 2026 start and completion by the end of 2026. No member of the public spoke against the project during the discussion. No additional amendments or funding sources were added during the boardaction.

Context: The county acted on the feasibility report and funding recommendation to meet HUD RAD contract requirements; staff indicated the contract must be in place before conversion and work completed within a year of conversion.