By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

County Community Development Director Amy Baldwin, on Dec. 17, told county commissioners that her department, from January 2025 through January 2029, will assist the community of Ottertail with a rebate program on property taxes for new home construction.

While county government’s role with the rebate program is ending, the county remains committed to expanding housing through other programs led by the Community Development Agency (CDA) and Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA). A previous partnership started with county government and the city of Pelican Rapids.

“We have a template for communities throughout Otter Tail County to utilize,” said Baldwin to the five county commissioners. “Area towns will now have first-hand knowledge of eligibility rules and other factors.”

Since its launch in 2019, the program has supported over 350 new home builds, aligning with the county’s Big Build Initiative, which has focused on housing growth and investment. 

The deadline for homebuilders to apply for the Otter Tail County Property Tax Rebate Program is fast approaching, with applications due by Dec. 31, 2024. This program offers a rebate on property taxes for new home construction, providing up to $10,000 from the county.

Baldwin said the purpose of the Community Development Agency (CDA) is to strengthen the communities of Otter Tail County by expanding housing opportunities, promoting business development and fostering the coordination of public and private resources.