Fufeng agreement advances before GF council

The Grand Forks council approved a development agreement with the Fufeng Group last night (Tuesday) needed to further study the proposed corn milling project.  The company is hoping to locate a plant on the city’s north side.

As has been the case in previous meetings a number of nearby land and business owners showed up to voice opposition to the project.

The deal would require $96.6 million dollars in infrastructure spending.  Of that total $55.9 million dollars would target previously planned and accelerated improvements and $41 million worth of incremental projects to serve Fufeng.  Utility fees paid by the company plus state and federal funds would help cover the costs.

Council President Dana Sande says the agreement is just the first step in the process.  Sande also said as a community “We need to figure this out.”

The council approved the legal document on a 5 to 1 vote.

Council member Jeannie Mock was recused from voting because she works for AE2S a local engineering firm participating in the study analysis.  The lone “No” vote came from member Katie Dachtler.