06-24-2002 HR MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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HRA Minutes Page 2 June 24,2002 • 6. Habitat for Humanity 6.1. Community Research Economic Development Assistant Heidi Hall reported on research completed by staff regarding ways in which other communities have been involved with Habitat for Humanity projects. She indicated that communities could assist this program in several ways including CDBG funds,MHFA grants, and volunteer labor. Discussion was held regarding types of assistance that the City could provide including rehabilitation of property. The HRA directed staff to provide information on ways cities have assisted Habitat for Humanity rehabilitation projects. 6.2. Sherburne County Habitat for Humanity Board Update Commissioner Lieser indicated that the Sherburne County Habitat for Humanity will hold its first meeting on June 27. 7. Joint Meeting with City Council—Affordable Housing Initiatives Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich indicated that the City has received a request for an apartment project. Catherine indicated that the developer is open to including affordable units with assistance from the City. She stated that staff is requesting direction from the HRA and Council as to whether affordable housing should be a part of this and other proposals. • Councilmember Tveite stated that he would like to see what other communities are doing regarding affordable housing and would like to see this fit in with the City's Comprehensive Plan. Discussion was held regarding financing options. It was the consensus of the HRA and Council that it would like to see more information on the apartment proposal. The HRA and City Council showed interest in looking at options for affordable housing. Catherine indicated that staff would prepare information about financing options. 8. Downtown Revitalization Project 8.1. Consider Acceptance of Context Study Economic Development Assistant Heidi Hall,indicated that staff is requesting the HRA and City Council to consider acceptance of the Historic Context Study that was completed and presented by Carole Zellie of Landscape Research at the May 28 HRA meeting. The HRA and Council considered the Study.A majority of the members of the HRA and City Council indicated that study was not specific enough in relation to the recommendations on building significance. It was also noted that the HRA and Council are looking for more definitive answers in relation to the buildings. It was indicated by the HRA and Council that the final study has not yet been distributed for review. • It was the consensus that Staff get further clarification from Carole Zellie regarding specific structures that should be retained.