04-10-2006 EDA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Authority Minutes Apri110, 2006 Page 4 actual costs to establish a TIF district, prepare a TIF plan and negotiate a developer agreement. She cited an example of significant attorney fees that were incurred by the City due to negotiating numerous requests of the client's attorney. Ms. Mehelich also explained that applicants aze made awaze that they can be reimbursed for the fees as part of the negotiations. Commissioner Dwyer stated that he supported a minimum fee, with the client's understanding that anything over and above that fee will be their responsibility. Ms. Mehelich stated that a final document will be presented to the EDA for their approval next month. 8. Report on Outcome of Development Fonun Assistant Director of Economic Development Heidi Steinmetz provided an update on the Development Forum held March 29, 2006 at the City Hall. She noted that 35 contractors/developers attended the event. Both positive feedback and constructive criticism was received. Limited comments were received regarding the Gateway Business Center due to the unknown nature of the developable property rema;n;ng around the many wetlands on the site. Mr. Clark noted that comments received related to two items which the department is currently addressing, those being duplication of services and uncleaz expectations. He noted that the applications have been revised and tailored to specific requests so that an applicant has a clear understanding of the process, what is expected, and financial impacts. Also, a time wt71 be set up, perhaps once a month, to review a concept with the staff (Building, Planning, Engineer, etc.). Also, a meeting has been scheduled for everyone involved in the inspection process including Wastewater, Utilities, Fire, Engineering, etc. in an attempt to resolve issues regarding duplication and undeaz expectations. President Gongoll asked if future development forums were planned. Mr. Clark stated that he plans to work on the issues as a result of this first forum and see how it goes from there. President Gongoll stated that he felt the Wetland Buffer Ordinance will be a negative restriction for development. He stated that he realizes wetland protection is an issue, but he did not support such a restrictive ordinance. Mr. Clark stated that the proposed ordinance is only adding an additiona120 feet around a delineated wetland. He stated that other cities have a much more restrictive ordinance. President Gongoll stated that his knowledge is from what he has heazd and what the County has put out. 9.1. Status Report on Data Center Ms. Mehelich stated that staff is in touch with the site selection consultant once a week She stated that what we know so faz is that the project schedule is being adjusted. They have indicated that Elk River is in a very favorable position in terms of being considered and they are very appreciative of the City's offer of financial assistance toward the project. 10. Adjournment There being no other business, PRESIDENT GONGOLL ADJOURNED THE MEETING.