Miles council orders public hearing and requires redevelopment of 332 Ferry Road

Miles City Council voted on July 8 to require the property owner to redevelop 332 Ferry Road and to hold a public hearing on the matter.

Councilmember N. Voss moved to proceed with a public hearing and require redevelopment of the property “consistent with the City's approach to 346 Ferry Road,” a motion seconded by R. Wilslef and approved 5 ayes, 0 nays.

The decision followed discussion about how redevelopment could affect grant eligibility. Councilmember R. Wilslef asked whether the city would remain eligible for future grant funding if the property were sold or left as-is. City Clerk Brenda L. Tebbe read an email from Mel Pins of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources stating that Brownfield Redevelopment Program funding requests are strengthened by demonstrating successful reuse and redevelopment of a community’s first Brownfield site. The email noted the program’s purpose includes helping communities return properties to productive use as well as assisting with environmental regulatory costs.

The council directed staff to proceed with the required public hearing process. No timeline for the hearing was specified at the meeting; councilmembers indicated the matter would be considered at the next council meeting following notice and any required postings.

The council’s action is procedural (directing a public hearing and requiring redevelopment); it does not itself authorize demolition, construction or funding. Any redevelopment plan, approvals or financial assistance would require further review and formal action.