02-13-2006 EDA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development _',uthoritj- Minutes February 13, 2006 Page 8 Commissioner Dwyer stated that he lost a friend due to the eminent domain process and that it puts cities in an adversarial position. He felt that the real human issues need to be considered. Mayor Klinzing stated local officials will continue to live in the community after eminent domain is exercised and they need to be accountable for their actions. She stated that she did not see who would benefit from taking this process away from local government. Commissioner Motin disagreed that it is a compensation issue. He feels that people fear that the government is going to take away their home and turn azound and give it to someone else for economic gain. He felt there needs to be more restriction on the use of eminent domain but that it should still be a tool that cities can use. He asked if a super majority is required for use of eminent domain. Mr. Beck stated that a simple majority is required. Commissioner Moon stated that he felt a super majority should be required, as is the case for rezonings. He supported the League bill but did not feel it goes faz enough. Commissioner Farber concurred with Commissioner Motin, but stated that he would not like to see either bill pass. If he had to chose, he would support the League bill even though it does not go far enough. Ms. Steinmetz noted that other tides such as Brooklyn Pazk and Coon Rapids have passed resolutions supporting the preservation of eminent domain and that there aze other does in the process of passing resolutions. She stated that staff could provide these resolutions and also draft a resolution that takes into account all the comments for the City Councll, EDA and HRA. The Council members, EDA and HRA members present concurred. Chair Stewart felt the Institute of Justice bill would "handcuff 'cities and that it would be in the Citj•'s best interest to endorse the League bill. Mayor Klinzing asked if townships aze doing anything about this issue. Mr. Beck stated that townships have a narrow range of issues, but that counties aze aware of the bill. Ms. Steinmetz stated that she is not aware of any bills being introduced by townships, but that a list of supporters of the League bill will be provided by staff. HRA Commissioner Toth stated that he supports a resolution by the City. Mayor Klinzing noted that she supports a requirement of a super majority fox approval of the use of eminent domain. There being no other comments on this issue, PRESIDENT GONGOLL ADJOURNED THE MEETING. The meeting of the Elk River Economic Development Authority adjourned at 7:10 p.m. The special meeting of the City Council and Housing and Redevelopment Authority also adjourned at this time. Su~~b11mlit~te~d ~b`y:~ .Q/iolie[ Debbie Huebner Recording Secretary