Developer revealed for opera house project
By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times
The McGregor Council, at its April 18 meeting, agreed to proceed with plans to create a development agreement for the Sullivan Opera House, after Dominic Sparrgrove, of Parkersburg, was revealed as the developer for the project. The council also gave the go-ahead to begin the process for disposal of the property and to review the city’s urban renewal plan for possible use of TIF.
The decision was in response to the city, earlier this month, being awarded a $100,000 Community Catalyst Building Remediation Grant for rehabilitation of the Sullivan Opera House.
Duane Boelman, McGregor’s deputy city clerk and economic development lead, said Sparrgrove is familiar with McGregor, having spent summers in the community. Sparrgrove also has experience completing similar projects, Boelman noted, and will plan to work with architect Doug Steinmetz, who developed potential restoration and reuse plans for the building several years ago.
“I’m really encouraged that he’s working with Doug. [Steinmetz] is one of the best in the state,” Boelman told the council. “I’m excited about it, and think it will be something really good when it’s done.”
Plans for the large space include creating six upstairs apartments. On the lower level, the three front portions will serve as retail space, while the back space closest to the next-door McGregor Historical Museum would be reserved for an expansion of the museum. The other two back portions could either be additional residential units or office space.
Per the Community Catalyst Grant, Boelman said the project must be completed in two years. The project, he added, must also be 60 percent completed before the developer can draw funds from that grant.
With that timetable, he said work could begin soon.
“Things can get moving just as fast as they can take ownership,” he said.
City administrator Lynette Sander said it would be at least two to three months for the disposal of property and the development agreement to be completed.
Animal issues discussed
The council also discussed complaints of several dogs running loose in the community and people not cleaning up after their pets. The council authorized the city’s attorney, Mike Schuster, to send letters to the perpetrators, reminding them that citations could be issued if the behavior continues.
Storm sewer wall repairs planned
The council approved a bid from B&R Construction for $10,450, for the replacement of secondary storm sewer wall at two locations. Damage occurred during last year’s July 19 tornado, and will be covered by FEMA funds.