Potential New Liquor Store Information
The City of Pine City is partnering with Big Fork Valley Log Cabins, LLC to design and explore the potential relocation of Voyageur Bottle Shop to a new site. This project is privately funded, and no City tax dollars are being used to design or construct the proposed building.
The development is planned to include multiple storefronts with apartments above, adding much‑needed housing to Pine City, a major priority within our community. The liquor store portion of the building will be leased by the City, after the conclusion of the lease, the City will own that portion of the building.
Additionally, the property taxes paid by the developer will increase the local tax base, benefiting the City, County, and local schools for years to come.
We are currently in the early development stages, and details are still being finalized. As the project advances, updates and additional information will be shared here to keep the community informed and engaged.
October 7, 2026 Update
Staff Memo
Staff would like to address the proposed new development on Hillside Avenue that could possibly be the new location of the municipal liquor operations, Voyageur Bottle Shop. The City of Pine City has created a Comprehensive Plan based on input from the community addressing the priorities of the taxpayers and what they want to see for the future of Pine City. Staff has reviewed the adopted 2024-2034 Comprehensive Plan, and the liquor store + mixed-use housing development aligns with several of the city's core principles and goals, including:
Economic Prosperity - The plan emphasizes supporting existing businesses, promoting new business opportunities, and strengthening Pine City's economy. A modernized municipal liquor store directly falls under supporting local enterprise and increasing commercial vitality.
Housing supply & Quality - The Plan identifies housing shortages and stresses "providing enough safe, quality housing to ensure growth and serve all income levels." New apartments directly support this goal, especially given the current housing scarcity.
Downtown Revitalization & Commercial Corridor Strengthening - The Plan encourages development that adds vibrancy, supports foot traffic, and builds the tax base within key commercial areas. Retail + housing mixed-use is specifically supported as beneficial for downtown and corridor activation.
Infrastructure & Public Services - The Plan includes ensuring long-term public facility needs are met and improving connectivity and community amenities. A new liquor store facility modernizes a city-operated service.
Community Pride & Financial Stability - The municipal liquor store is a key revenue generator for the city. Investments that sustain and grow this revenue stream Support the goal of maintaining a financially stable local government.