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Sartell Launches "Growing Sartell Together" Housing Initiative for 2026

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Sartell Launches "Growing Sartell Together" Housing Initiative for 2026

Mayor Ryan Fitzthum touts the program as "the first of its kind" in Central Minnesota

The following is from a release issued by the City of Sartell, Monday, December 8, 2025...

Leading on Housing When Others Are Falling Behind
At a time when communities across Minnesota are grappling with housing shortages, Sartell is stepping forward with solutions that are rooted in data and driven by proactive leadership. Following the "2025 Sartell Housing Needs Analysis", which identified a need for more than 1,500 new housing units over the next decade, the City is launching a new housing program in 2026: Growing Sartell Together.


This pilot initiative waives all Water Access (WAC) and Sewer Access (SAC) fees and caps the core building permit cost for new single-family homes at $1,500 on existing, platted lots. The program is the first of its kind in Central Minnesota and is designed to keep homeownership attainable while supporting responsible community growth.


Built to Reduce Costs and Increase Opportunity
By focusing on infill development, the City reduces costs for builders, homeowners, and taxpayers while maximizing existing public investment. This approach creates a realistic path for families and developers to move forward in 2026 and beyond, without additional burden on the City’s budget or residents.


Mayor Fitzthum: “Sartell Wins Because We Lead With Vision, Discipline, and Action.”


Mayor Ryan Fitzthum emphasized that the City’s strong financial footing, intentional economic development, and long-range planning create the capacity for bold initiatives and investments like this:


“Sartell’s economic momentum, disciplined budgeting, and expanding commercial tax base are exactly why we can launch programs that reduce barriers for families and builders. We are reinvesting our success back into the community, supporting our schools, strengthening neighborhoods, and ensuring Sartell continues to thrive.”


He added:

“This is what sets Sartell apart. We are proactive, not reactive. We keep taxes flat, drive strategic development, and provide real solutions to real challenges. That’s how you lead a growing city, and that’s why Sartell continues to be one of the strongest communities in Central Minnesota.”


Sartell Is Setting the Standard
Sartell isn’t just keeping pace with the region; they are setting the standard for how cities can grow responsibly while delivering meaningful value to both their residents and businesses. The flat tax rate and the new Housing Incentive Program: Growing Sartell Together, reflect the City’s comprehensive, data-driven approach to community growth, where fiscal stability, quality of life, and housing opportunity move forward together.


For any questions, please reach out to the Community and Economic Development Director, Kari Haakonson: kari.haakonson@sartellmn.com


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Additional Info

Media Contact : CMBA Government Affairs; City of Sartell

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