Storm Lake may be one step closer to its first new apartment‑style development in more than a decade. On Monday, the city council approved the first reading of a rezoning request for 211 East 13th St., following a public hearing that drew both support and questions from residents.
City Building and Code Compliance Director Scott Olesen outlined the proposal on behalf of Axis Property Management of Orange City, which purchased the 3.5‑acre parcel and hopes to build multi‑family housing there. The land is currently zoned for Institutional use, but Olesen said the request to shift it to R4 High Density Residential fits the surrounding neighborhood, which is located east of Dollar General and Ace Hardware.
Olesen noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval, saying the project aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan and fills a long‑standing gap in local housing options. Storm Lake hasn’t seen an apartment‑style project since 2013.
City staff also reviewed infrastructure capacity. Olesen said engineering reports show the area’s existing utilities can support the development.
During the public hearing, Storm Lake resident Casey Orth-Nebitt raised concerns about the city’s 10‑year, 100 percent tax abatement for multi‑residential projects, urging the council to consider the long‑term financial impact.
City Manager Keri Navratil and City Development Services Specialist Lee Dutfield responded by explaining why the incentive exists — and why it has mattered.
Navratil that without incentives, many recent housing projects would not have happened at all.
The rezoning requires three readings. The second reading is scheduled for April 20, with a final vote expected on May 4. If approved, Axis Property says construction could begin as early as spring 2027.
