Tornadoes and hail storms during June have resulted in a boost in building permits for both the city and county.

The Freeborn County Planning and Zoning Office issued 64 building permits during July with a listed valuation of $2,951,810. Ten of these permits are for new homes, in most situations to replace residences damaged or destroyed by the tornadoes. There are also 35 permits specifically issued for roofing projects.

One permit with a valuation of $887,090 was issued in July to Wisconsin Power and Light Co. for a “lay down site ” building which will later become the main operating center for the Bent Tree Wind Farm in Hartland.

The total estimated valuation for county-issued permits for the first seven months of the year is $5,374,300.

Albert Lea’s Inspection Department issued 87 building permits during July with a valuation of $1,932,996. This increases the total valuation for building permits issued during the first seven months of the year to $7,650,692.

At the end of July 2009, the city’s report lists the total valuation for building permits issued as $10,078,119.

Hail damage in several parts of the city in June has resulted in the issuance of 53 re-roofing permits in July.

A July permit with a valuation of $700,000 was issued for what’s listed as “mechanical and general construction office and classroom area” at Riverland Community College, 2200 Tech Drive.

The Albert Lea Medical Center has been issued a permit with a valuation of $290,000 for the relocation of Community Health Service to HealthReach, 1705 S.E. Broadway Ave.

Permits were also issued for two single family dwellings during July. One of the new homes is located on Paradise Road and the other is on Seath Drive.