10.0. PRSR 05-08-2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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acommittee for the Center toured Handke School as a possible site. Handke has approximately 80,000 sq. ft., a commercial kitchen, and a spectacular view of the stadium. It was noted that Handke is beloved by the community as demonstrated by the Rotary's successful campaign to renovate the stadium. The stadium is one step away from being listed on the national historical register. There would be room for the Community Education and ECFE programs, as well as Head Start, the Sherburne County Social Service and Public Health programs, and other partners in the Family Center. It was also noted that the space is particularly suited for Art Center requirements. The community atrium space could be made in the gymnasium, or at the east overlooking the stadium. Charlie Blesener stated that the state's $500,000 grant for the family center could be applied to a renovation. The difficulty for the school district is that they are may not be able to remove Handke from the status of elementary school until the public approves construction of new schools, probably in the southern part of the district. In the event that the school district and the Art Center are not able to continue their partnership, the Arts Alliance has agreed to explore other options such as the Historic Downtown and partnering with another arts organization. Louise Kuester recommended that all options need be researched until the necessary components fall into place. Rachel Leonard suggested that the developing of the Northstar Corridor and the widening (or raising) of Hwy 10, thereby closing downtown accesses, are factors to take into account. Don noted that Sherburne County could be a player in the gathering space issue. Pastor Gene Rick reminded that parking continues to be a problem for the Central Business District all the way up to Handke. In fact, the Methodist church is facing parking issues at their location on West Main Street. • The next meeting was set for April 4,4:00 p.m. at the Boys&Girls Club_ The meeting adjourned at approximately 5:30 p.m.