11-05-2007 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Housing & Redevelopment Authority November 5, 2007 Page 2 the original request was for 32 spaces north of Highway 10, but that the Council has since authorized overnight parking in the King Avenue parking lot. Commissioner Toth asked what the status is of the parking lot north of Highway 10. Mr. Maurer stated that this item is on this evening's City Council agenda to consider the re- paving of the lot. He noted that it was discovered that there is no formal agreement with MnDOT for the City's use of the Highway 10 right of way for the parking area. He stated that there currently are vehicles parking overnight in the lot. Commissioner Toth asked if the parking was addressed in the developer agreement. Ms. Mehelich stated that the developer agreement primarily dealt with the tax increment financing. Commissioner Moon stated that the residential tenants in the Cinema building have requested designating additional parking for them. Ms. Mehelich stated that the City Council has given direction to accommodate them with some parking stalls in the King Avenue parking lot. Consider Arts Alliance Lease Request for 716 Main Street lHoulton Buildin~l Mr. Clark updated the Commission on past discussions regarding use of the 716 Main Street property by the Arts Alliance. He noted that three members of the Arts Alliance were present to answer any questions the HRA may have. Mr. Clark stated that staff feels placing the Arts Alliance in the downtown will provide exposure for them and bring energy to the downtown. He explained that if the IIRA agrees to pursue this use, an informal memorandum of understanding will be completed and a lease agreement could be presented at the December HR A meeting. Mr. Clark stated that the group is looking for atwo-year . commitment and described leasehold improvements they are proposing to make. He stated that a lease would be beneficial to both parties. Commissioner Toth asked if the prayer group was still meeting at the site. Ms. Mehelich stated that they were advised they could meet there until the end of October and had the option to request longer, but they have not responded. Commissioner Motin stated he had concerns for providing free rent space. He wants to be sure the Arts Alliance realizes the arrangement would be for two years only. Commissioner Kuester stated that she is in agreement that the city needs to use caution in providing free rent space, since there are other organizations the city has partnered with besides the Arts Alliance, such as CAER and the Chamber of Commerce. Chair Wilson concurred this is an issue to consider in the future. Ms. Mehelich noted that the City Council will be considering a use policy for the library this evening, which could be a basis for use of other city facilities. Commissioner Toth asked if the Arts Alliance has done any long range planning. A representative from the Alliance stated that they hope to have a permanent home in the future, but that they do not have a specific site in mind. Commissioner Motin stated that it is not a city function to provide space for charitable organizations, and there are a number of restrictions in the statutes regarding this issue. City Administrator Lori Johnson concurred, stating that organizations the city is allowed to contribute to include the food shelf, arts, recreation and senior citizen activities. Commissioner Motin stated that he did not feel the city should provide a building for arts. Commissioner Lieser asked if the Arts Alliance would like to continue downtown, if they do well in this location. A representative from the Arts Alliance stated yes, they probably would