At long last: Sheboygan County offers first new subdivision since Great Recession
Sheboygan Falls and Hillcrest Builders Partner
Sheboygan Falls, WI – February 6, 2018 – The City of Sheboygan Falls has entered into a developer’s agreement with Hillcrest Builders of Glenbeulah, WI, to catalyze the development of the remaining land behind Willow Creek Condominiums.
This new phase represents the first substantial residential subdivision in Sheboygan County in recent years. With room for 29 new homes, this project was made possible by both the creation of a new Nostalgic Residential zoning classification as well as an innovative special assessment where the City of Sheboygan Falls will pay for water/sewer enhancements and Hillcrest will refund the City as building permits are pulled.
“With only six residential lots left in the entire city, Sheboygan Falls needed room to grow,” stated Randy Meyer, Mayor of Sheboygan Falls. “Because new land development costs rose quickly, we knew as a city we had to get creative.”
The new Nostalgic Residential Zoning District allows for dense development that was typical of most American cities pre-WWII. These smaller lots allow for quality construction with few wasted resources and ultimately a lower price-point for the homebuyer. Oyvind Solvang, owner of Hillcrest Builders stated, “We are excited to offer a new product appealing to those who want a quality home, without a lot of yard, perfect for those either downsizing or seeking a low yard maintenance quality of life.”
“Both empty-nesters and millennials are seeking nicer homes on smaller lots,” stated Shad Tenpas, City Administrator. “Why as a country did we decide the American dream meant cutting a lot of lawn? Sheboygan Falls has reacted to market demands and we are excited to be among the first providing this type of subdivision in eastern Wisconsin.”
The City expects to invest about $600,000 in water/sewer and road improvements which will be paid off over the next 10 years with no anticipated cost to taxpayers. The deal creates a win-win for the City of Sheboygan Falls and Hillcrest Builders as the county strives to grow its residential housing inventory.
A recent study by the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) cited 230 owner-occupied units must be built annually in the County. 2016 permit data reveals the county only built 121 homes. Developer-friendly deals provided by area communities combined with aggressive developer/homebuilders are needed to satisfy the local demand for housing which is driven by the rapid economic growth Sheboygan County is experiencing. “Shad Tenpas worked tirelessly to move this project to fruition,” noted SCEDC’s Director Dane Checolinski. Blending local municipalities seeking growth with housing developers seeking to take advantage of the dire need for housing, this announcement is a win-win-win.”
For those interested in a new Nostalgic home contact Hillcrest Builders at 920-526-3600.
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For Additional Information, Contact:
Shad Tenpas, City Administration
City of Sheboygan Falls
920-467-7900 ext.117
shad@shebfalls.com
