Hallock Offering Free Land to Attract Workers

HALLOCK, Minn. (AP) — A small city in far northwestern Minnesota is hoping to draw workers to a new canola plant by offering free home lots.

A canola oil processing plant is under construction in the Kittson County city of Hallock, which has a population of about 1,000. Northstar Agri-Industries will open the $168 million plant in May with about 50 employees.

The Hallock Economic Development Authority recently voted to waive the cost of a $7,500 lot in a 40-acre housing development.

The Grand Forks Herald says the new plant is expected to stem the city's population decline and provide a $3.5 million annual payroll. The city is also involved in developing an apartment building, motel, restaurant, bank and other businesses.

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Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.

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