05-19-1997 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Elk River City Council Minutes May 19, 1997 Page 3 potential purchase of business park and/or industrial property by the city pursue construction of the new transportation corridor support of the EDA/HRA's action to undertake the following activities: 0 redevelopment of east Highway 10 corridor and central business district 0 continued financial commitment to the business incubator project 0 completion of a focus study and market study in the central business district. Paul Steinman concluded by offering staff's recommendation to adopt the Economic Development Strategic Plan as presented. Mayor Duitsman opened this issue for public comment. Tom Casey, attorney for Kathy Specht, indicated that his client had a concern regarding condemnation of property. Mr. Casey quoted the January 21 EDA minutes indicating the City Administrator's comments regarding what would happen if the city could not reach agreement with a property owner for purchase of property. Mr. Casey requested the Council to recommend the plan to include voluntary acquisition of property only with no condemnation. Mr. Casey further indicated that his client Kathy Specht requests that her property be removed from the industrial plan. Jeff Gongoll, Economic Development Authority Commissioner and Strategic Planning Task Force member, thanked the members of the Task Force for their dedication on the plan. He indicated that the plan will serve the city well, will keep the city moving forward, and will add to the tax base when implemented. He indicated he recommended approval of the plan. Dick Gongoll, member of the Strategic Planning Task Force indicated that the plan should be flexible and offer a commitment for orderly growth to the city. Dick Gongoll indicated his support for the plan. There being no further comments, Mayor Duitsman closed the public hearing. Mayor Duitsman indicated that he endorses the Strategic Plan. He further stated that condemnation was not discussed or considered in any detail and he did not feel that the current Council could tie future Councils regarding the issue of condemnation. He stated that condemnation is not an issue at this time, but that it may be an issue in the future. He further indicated that the Strategic Plan is a planning document and that prior to any rezoning taking place, each area would be taken through the legally required process for consideration and review by the Planning Commission and the City Council. Councilmember Holmgren indicated that the city adopted its Growth Area Management Plan in 1988 and stated that there have been modifications to that plan. Councilmember Holmgren used the Growth Management Plan in comparison with the Strategic Plan and stated that these are both plans and, in regard to the Strategic Plan, it will probably not be implemented without