An Albert Lea business plans to expand its workforce, bringing approximately a half dozen jobs to the community.

The Albert Lea City Council Monday permitted two $35,000 loans from the city’s revolving loan fund to Schipp’s Pro Power Wash Inc. The first loan is to retain the existing business and create tax base at 2340 Crossroads Boulevard. The second loan is forgivable if seven private sector jobs are created within three years. The council approved an interim use permit to allow Schipp’s Power Wash to have unpaved parking and driveway surfaces for an extended time at the address and next door at 2380 Crossroads Boulevard, the former Agilis building that was purchased by Schipp’s and is in the process of being redone.

The business plans to have two additional bays available by April 1. 

Sixth Ward Councilor Al “Minnow” Brooks said he is in the area of the business quite often, adding the expansion will make the already quality business better.

Schipp’s Pro Power Wash owner John Schipper thanked the council for working with him and allowing him to expand his operation. He discussed the history of the business, noting he recently became aware it would need more room to operate.

Schipper discussed the environmental work that will be done on the site to ensure it is environmentally friendly.

Albert Lea Mayor Vern Rasmussen Jr. thanked Schipper for his work.

“It’s important for the city of Albert Lea to continue to look at some of the challenges that we have for development,” Rasmussen said. “We want to create environments for our small businesses to be able to succeed, and so I appreciate you stepping up to the plate and talking to our staff about your concerns, and I appreciate staff stepping in there and talking with you about them and really look at how do we make this work for everybody, because when we both win, that’s what we’re after.”