Ongoing and completed projects include constructing 145 units, now at full capacity, and a development featuring 14 modular homes available for purchase this spring. Melissa Wyman, Staples Economic Development Director, says,“If that project goes well, they intend to bring in more in the future.” “We received a $950 thousand Small Cities Development Grant to improve 20 single-family homes, five single-family rental units, and five commercial buildings,” says Murray. Combined with Staple’s match, the total investment is just over $1 million. This will affect all sectors of the population and improve visual attractiveness and infrastructure. Despite these undertakings, a study showed a persistent vacancy rate of less than 2%, far below the healthy recommendation of 5%. Securing adequate shelter is a tricky feat for municipalities, making Staples fortunate in its successful efforts to combat this basic crucial need. The city has 21 homes and vacant lots on the market, with prices ranging from $89,900 to $569,000. Like the housing crisis, childcare is also an issue. The childcare center doubled childcare spots from 30 to 60 but required 230. Bjerga explains the ingenuity of officials helping ease the problem,“We relocated our durable medical equipment warehouse to the industrial park, and converted the existing facility into a daycare center.” DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION Following a project that rerouted the highway away from the core, Staples experienced traffic flow improvements. However, this venture triggered a need for revitalization. Small towns face business fluctuations and strive to fill vacancies by improving the downtown aesthetic. In pursuit of this goal, Staples secured a $100,000 grant from the Blandin Foundation, a Minnesotabased organization dedicated to growing resourceful, inclusive rural communities . Using the Blandin funds, improvements include artful murals, enhancements to flower planters, and 65 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 03 STAPLES, MN
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