02-04-2002 HR MIN SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing and Redevelopment Authority Page 2 February 4, 2002 4. Downtown Riverfront Revitalization Project 4.1. Review Development Objectives and Design Concepts Catherine Mehelich reviewed the proposed development objectives. She indicated that the objectives were compiled following feedback from the December HRA meeting and individual meetings between staff and HRA commission members. Chris Leeseberg indicated that in December the HRA reviewed five design concept options prepared by staff, which were based on previous studies and goals of the HRA. Chris noted staff has refined the concepts since the last review process. Chris presented three new concepts to the HRA for review. Following review of the concepts the HRA noted that the "brick block" buildings located along Jackson Avenue between Highway 10 and Main Street should be maintained as it helps to establish the traditional character of the area. It was further noted that the HRA would like to see a concept, similar to the earlier Best and Hempel concept, which would include redevelopment of the riverfront area between Parrish Avenue and King Avenue. 4.2. Update on Communication Activities Catherine Mehelich informed the HRA of the methods that will be used to communicate with the public regarding the revitalization process. She noted that a Downtown Riverfront Revitalization Q&A Newsletter would be distributed via the newspaper, an open house will be held on February 12, and the Star News will have an article regarding the project in the February 6 edition. 4.3. Review Implementation Policies and Next Steps Jim Prosser of Ehlers &Associates reviewed implementation policies that are necessary in order to proceed with the redevelopment project. Discussion topics included the possible need to use the HRA power of eminent domain, the Historical Context Study, and requests for financial assistance.Jim indicated that the next step will involve soliciting developer proposals. Commissioner Motin suggested it is important that the Mayor and City Council concur with the HRA on the project goal, objectives, and process. Ms. Mehelich stated that the February 25, 2002, HRA meeting will be held jointly with the City Council. Chair Toth noted that there was a lot of redevelopment potential north of the railroad tracks, which could be impacted by Highway 10 interregional corridor plans. 4.4. Consider Property for Sale Located in Revitalization Project Area Catherine Mehelich indicated that a piece of property located within the HRA's S identified revitalization project area is for sale. The property is located at 204 Lowell Avenue and the asking price is $74,900. The HRA discussed the merit of purchasing