Civil Municipal - April 2024

Lonnie Neuner, City Administrator adds that plans include updates and maintenance to the city’s electrical system, which reflects the forward-thinking approach Hawley takes to its infrastructure. Regarding housing, Neuner highlights Prairie Hills Estates, a new development on the northwest side of the community. “It’s about three-quarters full at this moment,” he explains. “There’s one more area to be developed in this development, as one phase was opened up and constructed last year. There are some other potential areas of growth for housing also, but that would be a little bit down the road.” Mayor Mork emphasizes the advantageous housing incentives available for those who build in the city. He shares, “There is no limit on how big or how much you build your home for, the taxes are abated for the first two years that you live there. Not only are there some rebates through our electrical department during building, but you would also get some different rebates when first moving into a new home when you build here.” BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES Schwartz points out that Hawley’s strategic location makes it a prime destination for investment. “We touched on it a little bit before, that there’s proximity to two major cities, Fargo, to the west and Detroit Lakes to the east. The airport is only a few miles away, and we have two connecting interstates close by, so in terms of a business that needs transportation, it’s really good for that.We are close to major transportation channels.” With over 147 thriving businesses and a large Industrial Park, Hawley offers ample opportunities for entrepreneurs to flourish. “I think the attractiveness for the town is that it’s probably not lost among the clutter of big city 94 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 04