By Mani Souphom – R & J Broadcasting, Inc. | Saturday, October 3, 2026

WARROAD, Minn. — Warroad is exploring new partnerships and funding opportunities for housing and improvements along the Warroad River. At Monday’s city council meeting, Warroad Community Development Director Sarah Carling reported a housing and comprehensive plan study remains on schedule for completion by the end of 2026.

Carling also discussed with the council how the city might use approximately $10,000 in remaining Blandin Foundation grant funds. The funds were originally awarded to help develop a comprehensive plan. One option would be to apply the remaining money toward the second phase of a housing study, which is expected to cost about $27,000. Under that option, the city would contribute approximately $17,000.

Another option would be for the city to pay the full $27,000 for the second phase and use the $10,000 to extend work with Minnesota Housing Partnership. No final decision on the use of the funds was required Monday.

Carling also discussed recent work with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources regarding conditions on the Warroad River.

City Administrator Kathy Lovelace and Carling recently met with DNR regional managers and Representative John Burkel for a tour of the river. The group of officials discussed aquatic weeds, recreational access and potential partnerships to address issues affecting the river.

Carling said they are exploring ways to work with the DNR, Army Corps of Engineers, USDA and other state and federal programs to leverage funding and resources. She and Lovelace also discussed whether residents could undertake some work on their own and how the city might make the permitting process easier to understand.