5. HRSR 06-06-2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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MEMORANDUM TO: Housing & Redevelopment Authority FROM: Lance Lindberg, Chair of the HPC DATE: May 19, 201 I SUBJECT: HRA Properties - 716 & 720 Main Street The Heritage Preservation Commission met on Thursday, April 21, 2011. During the meeting, the HPC recapped the presentation given by Bonnie McDonald, Preservation Alliance of MN and joint meeting with the HRA in April. I have attached a copy of the presentation she gave. Staff informed the HPC of the recent discussion by the HRA regarding 716 & 720 Main Street and whether to rehabilitate or remove the buildings. The HPC would recommend restoring the buildings. The buildings add to the character of the downtown and if restored could add to the economy of the downtown by providing another location for astart-up business. Also, by removing these two buildings, the integrity of the meat market which has been in operation since 1904 would change. Having the meat market as a stand-alone would detract from the character of downtown Elk River. As was stated during Ms. McDonald's presentation: • Reinvesting in underutilized historic properties adds to the tax base • Promotes investment into surrounding properties • Preservation produces jobs • Historic buildings provide diverse lease space options for businesses and job creation • Rehabilitation costs less than demolition • Preservation is more sustainable • Historic buildings can be more energy efficient • There are funding sources available for restoration of historic buildings The HPC looks forward to discussing the opportunities for these properties with the HRA at their June 6, 2011 meeting. Thank you. C:\Users\adeckert\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Temporary Internet Files\Content.0utlook\90Y59UE4\Ltr to HRA.doc