09-07-2010 HRA MIN SPEC - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing & Redevelopment Authority September 7, 2010 Page 3 Commissioner Moon asked if the HRA can apply for the program loan and then acquire a • building. Ms. Mehelich stated the intent would be to acquire and demolish in order to position it for redevelopment through the use of the grant program. Commissioner Kuester stated that they also need to look at the buildings next to a potential site in order to determine economic development benefit. Commissioner Toth stated that the former Circle C building likely would be impacted by the proposed Highway 10 project, so he did not feel the site would be suitable for redevelopment. Ms. Mehelich explained the difference between the existing redevelopment grant program and the demolition loan program. She stated that the existing program requires that a project results in atax-producing property; whether it is residential, industrial, or commercial; and the demolition program only requires that redevelopment will result in economic development benefit to the municipality. The Commission discussed sites along east Main Street and the Line Avenue properties. Ms. Mehelich stated that the purpose of the workshop was to initiate discussion. She explained that staff would rather have property owner clean up the sites on their own terms. Removing blighted or substandard buildings would help create a clean slate for development, but may require that the HRA take a more aggressive role than they have in the past. Commissioner Motin indicated he was doubtful that a development project would occur • within two years on any of the sites. He stated that the general idea of the program is good. He stated he would like to move forward on removing properties, but did not want the HRA to spend too much time on it. Commissioner Toth asked for clarification on the process. Ms. Mehelich stated that DEED is asking for input on what has been drafted so far. Also, they axe asking for applications for potential projects from cities in order to determine the legislative funding request. Commissioner Kuester stated that the program is somewhat like TIF, and it may be a good idea to use in areas where the city would not use TIF. Chair Wilson asked that staff let DEED know they are interested. Commissioner Kuester suggested naming some small projects. Chair Wilson stated that the HRA was not in a position to specify sites at this time, since DEED may hold the HRA accountable if an award was granted. Ms. Mehelich stated no, that there would be a formal application process and this process is just to help them determine the amount of legislative funding to request. Chair Wilson noted that he will not be able to attend next month's meeting. •