11-01-2004 HR MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Housing&Redevelopment Authority Page 4 November 1,2004 S Ms. Steinmetz asked if the HRA would like to discuss a plan for the area to test the market and financial feasibility. Chair Wilson stated that they will look at the revised concept next month for possible land use changes and then discuss next steps. 7. Consider Adoption of 2004-2007 Economic Development Strategic Plan Ms. Mehelich reviewed the changes made in the 2004-2007 Economic Development Strategic Plan. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER THOMPSON AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER MOTIN TO ADOPT THE MODIFIED 2004-2007 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN. MOTION CARRIED 5-0. 8. Overview of Greater MN Housing Fund(GMHF) Growth Corridor Initiative Conference Assistant Director Heidi Steinmetz stated that staff obtained more information on the Greater MN Housing Fund Growth Corridor Initiative program at the conference on October 20,2004. The four pilot counties include Wright, Sherburne, Isanti and Chisago. She explained that the four elements of the program include coordinated planning,land use, housing, and community participation and local participation. A Request for Proposals was announced in October and two communities within the four-county area will receive funding and technical support from GMHF for"model"projects similar to the Cambridge and North Branch projects. Model projects include area-wide master plans;life cycle housing;efficient land use;increased citizen participation. The pre-application deadline is • December 15, 2004 and applicants will then be invited to submit a formal application by February 4, 2004. Staff would like to know if the HRA is interested in submitting an application. Commissioner Motin suggested that the area north of Highway 10 that is west of Proctor and east of Quinn could be considered for a housing redevelopment project. Commissioner Thompson stated that if the project is intended to bring the City closer to being part of the Met Council,he is not interested. Chair Wilson asked if there was any reason not to at least submit the pre-application. Ms. Mehelich stated that the funds would go toward professional services for a project. Commissioner Thompson stated that he felt the program would benefit other communities such as Isanti, since they are not a developed at Elk River,but that he felt it was a little late for Elk River. Director of Planning Michele McPherson reviewed information about the program which she learned at the workshop. She explained the North Branch and Cambridge projects. Commissioner Motin stated that the City could possibly put together an affordable housing project which would be eligible for funding. The Commissioners discussed whether or not a pre-application should be submitted. Ms. McPherson noted that this first step could possibly lead to an opportunity to qualify for • other funding.