Colder weather has resulted in reduced construction activity, according to the latest city and county building permit reports.

The City of Albert Lea Inspection Department’s report shows 17 building permits being issued in December with a valuation of $515,198. Thus, the total valuation for building permits issued by the city during 2002 was $12,636,554.

At the end of 2001, the city’s report shows a total valuation of $19,383,129 for building permits issued.

Building permits were issued by the city in December for a single family dwelling and a duplex. As a result, the city issued permits for a total of 21 new living units in 2002, or six more than the total listed for 2001.

The Freeborn County Planning and Zoning Office issued seven building permits with an estimated valuation of $145,430 in December. This increases the total building permit valuation for 2002 to $8,346,267. Three of the county’s December permits were issued for home additions.