11-01-2010 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing & Redevelopment Authority November 1, 2010 Chair Wilson concurred, stating that the purpose of a vision is for long-term benefit. Commissioner Toth stated that he felt the precedent has already been started by allowing the dance school. Commissioner Kuester suggested an action to enhance community involvement and public participation could be to find a way to involve teachers and students in how local government works. Ms. Mehelich stated that the HRA's 2010 goals include continuing foreclosure initiatives, marketing housing resources, energy assistance, resuming the downtown study process, looking at blighted homes, reviewing the housing stock inventory, etc. She noted that these goals are in line with the goals supporting the vision. Commissioner Kuester asked if there are more housing rentals in the city. Ms. Mehelich stated yes. She explained that the city has implemented a voluntary rental license with no fee. Ms. Johnson noted that this issue will be discussed at an upcoming worksession. Chair Stewart suggested that future housing need to be studied, and that there may be changes coming due to the aging of the baby boomers. Ms. Mehelich stated that she would anticipate an update in the housing market. She noted that Brooklyn Park have been coming up with innovative ideas, such as re-designing older bungalow homes. Other ideas such as a landscaping award program, and beautification program which • rewarded residents were discussed. Ms. Mehelich stated that a number of good ideas have been suggested and the discussion will be brought back to the HRA in a couple of months. 6. Other Business Ms. Mehelich briefly discussed the Informational Memo regarding MN Historic Structure Rehab Tax Credit. Commissioner Toth asked if there was any interest from the downtown business owners. Ms. Mehelich stated that the credit was just adopted by the legislature. She noted that the new pizzeria was not eligible since the program wasn't ready for implementation by the state and didn't meet his time frame for the project. The owner also wanted to make more modifications to the building than would be allowed under the program. Commissioner Toth asked if restoration of original facades would be eligible. Ms. Mehelich stated that there would be financing available for that. It was the consensus of the HRA to meet jointly with the Heritage Preservation Commission on a regular HRA meeting night. Ms. Mehelich stated that the downtown property owners would be invited to attend. Ms. Johnson noted that the HPC is proposing to apply for a grant for the old water tower. Adjournment There being no other business, Chair Wilson adjourned the meeting. Page 3 The meeting of the Elk River Housing and Redevelopment Authority adjourned at 6:35 p.m. t