07-14-2003 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Minutes Page 4 July 14, 2003 ............................. 5.5. HRA Downtown Revitalization Proiect A. Consider Resolution of Support for MN Housing Finance Agency Application B. Consider Letter of Understanding for Transfer of City-©wned Jackson Block Property Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich provided the Council with a brief update on the downtown revitalization project. Ms. Mehelich explained that the financial feasibility of this project is dependent on the city's and the developer's ability to receive financing from outside resources. Ms. Mehelich stated that MetroPlains would like to apply for a MHFA grant and in order to do this they need a Letter of Understanding from the city for the future sale of the Jackson block property and a resolution of support for the housing development on this site. Jim Prosser of Ehlers & Associates explained that the actions before the Council will enable the developer to secure the necessary financing for the project should the city decide to approve this project in a final form in the future. Mr. Prosser stressed that the Letter of Understanding and the resolution before the Council are not to be construed as a final development agreement and as long as the Council is comfortable with the basic concept of the plan, they should proceed. Mayor Klinzing stated that there are business owners present and that they have parking concerns and she would like to see this issue discussed. The following business and property owners were in attendance to voice their concerns regarding parking: · Rob VanValkenburg, owner Sunshine Depot building · Marcy VanValkenburg, owner Elk River Travel · Keith Holmes, owner Kemper Drug building · Sue, owner Sunshine Depot Ms. Mehelich indicated that parking issues are continuing to be addressed by staff, the developer, and the HRA. Veto Hanson of MetroPlains showed those business owners present a copy of the Jackson block proposal. Mr. Hanson explained that the Jackson block runs from Highway 10, along Jackson Avenue, to Main Street. Mr. Hanson also explained the concept plan for the Jackson block. The business owners present had concerns about the limited parking during construction and the location of parking after construction. A lengthy discussion took place regarding the parking during and after construction. Mayor Klinzing stated that property and business owners should be presented with the concept plans as soon as possible so they are not left with questions. It was discussed that property and business owners are not being adequately notified of upcoming meetings and discussions taking place regarding the downtown area. Councilmember Tveite requested that notification of future downtown revitalization meetings be sent to the business and property owners in downtown.