Construction of new housing project begins in Courtland

By RACHEL WEDDIG

Journal Staff Writer

COURTLAND -- Construction began on nine homes in Courtland this past week.

Jeff Dittrich, of Koeckeritz Realty, is responsible for a housing development project as a result of receiving $420,000 worth of grants from the Greater Minnesota Housing Fund (GMHF), the Minnesota Finance Agency (MHFA), and tax increment financing from the City of Courtland.

Dittrich said he is excited to see construction begin.

"The city has been real receptive and the local people seem really interested in the homes," Dittrich said. "These homes will serve a need for the people of Courtland and New Ulm."

Dittrich said he hoped construction would have began earlier, but is grateful that the weather has cooperated.

Families wishing to apply to buy the homes need to meet GMHF 2001 income restrictions. For example, a family of four can't make more than $50,000. Families will get help with down payments.

Along with GMHF, MHFA and the city of Courtland, D&V Partnership and Alliance Bank have contributed to the housing project. Alliance Bank is accepting applications for those interested in buying one of the homes.

Dittrich said the homes will be sold when finished and that Koeckeritz Realty is in the process of determining prices. The homes will have either two or three bedrooms with the lower level allowing for expansion space.

Dittrich said city officials, especially Tri-City Administrator Dan Wietecha, have been extremely helpful with the project by adjusting zoning regulations.

All nine homes should be completed by the end of 2002.

"The project seems to be going real good right now," Dittrich said. "It'll be good to get the first nine homes done. I've been working on this project since June 2000, so it's good to see things finally coming together."

There will be an informational seminar in December at the Courtland Recreation Hall for those interested in purchasing a home.

For more information contact Dittrich at Koeckeritz Realty, (507) 233-5519.