Preliminary plat in Willmar, Minn., OK'd for development

The Willmar City Council has approved the preliminary plat of Mills Second Addition, located north of the Mills Ford, Lincoln, Chrysler, Dodge, RAM and Jeep dealership on the west side of U.S. Highway 71 South.

Mills Properties of Brainerd is platting three lots for development of a car dealership, car wash, future convenience store and developable lot.

According to Bruce Peterson, director of city planning and development director, the utilities and storm water retention calculations and ponds were completed and are designed for Mills Properties' ultimate build-out, including a Mills Fleet Farm store.

In other business, the council set the preliminary 2013 city property tax levy at $4,232,734, up $240,000. The entire levy increase is proposed to be designed for public works infrastructure, according to Denis Anderson, Finance Committee chairman.

Anderson said the effect on property owners would equate to an approximate increase of $25.47 per year on a $115,000 home.

The council approved a committee recommendation to schedule a public hearing Dec. 3 on the 2013 budget of $34,974,785 and levy.