by John McLoone

The Hastings City Council approved land transfers to make way to expansion of two Hastings businesses.

“We’ve had some good activity in our industrial park,” said Community Development Director John Hinzman at last Monday night’s City Council meeting.

The first land transfer to the city’s development arm, HEDRA, was two parcels that will allow for an expansion of Quality One Woodworking, LLC. Two parcels totaling 2.03 acres of land along Enterprise Avenue were transferred by unanimous vote.

Hinzman told the council that Quality One plans to build a 50,000-square-foot addition to their Hastings facility and add 35 jobs. Improvements to the facility will be $3.5 million. Under the provision, because of the value of improvements and jobs, the land is transferred from HEDRA to Quality one for $1.

“This is a great addition to our industrial park, especially with the jobs as well,” said Mayor Mary Fasbender.

The council also approved a transfer of property for Miller Electric to build a 17,000 square-foot office and warehouse building on a parcel near their current building at 2911 Enterprise Avenue.

“Miller Electric recently changed hands a year or two ago. The current owner bought the business, and the former owner retained the building,” said Hinzman.

A memo to the council from Economic Development Coordinator Eric Maass stated, “Miller Electrical currently operates at 2911 Enterprise Avenue. Ownership has recently changed hand with the former owner selling the business but retaining ownership of the property. Miller Electrical seeks to own their building and provide for future growth.”

The transfer to HEDRA allows transfer of the property for $1, based on the scope of the project.

That council vote was also unanimous.

Quality One Woodworking plans to add a 50,000-square-foot addition and bring 35 more jobs to its Hastings facility.