10-27-2003 HR MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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IHRA Minutes Page 3 October 27,2003 . River's Edge group,MetroPlains,the Heritage Preservation Commission,and city staff. The students commented on their opinions and observations of downtown Elk River'strengths and weaknesses. Staff will provide this comments to the Commissioners in the November packet. Approximately 25 people attended an open house meeting regarding commercial/retail leasing opportunities in the new proposed project which was recently hosted by MetroPlains and Brookstone,Inc. Keith Holme, Elk River downtown business owner,asked for clarification regarding how MetroPlains can continue to work on the project without a Development Agreement. Mr.Hanson responded. Chair Toth reviewed the history of the downtown revitalization project. He stated that MetroPlains was chosen for the project at the request of the business owners. A petition has been received from people opposed to the Jackson Block portion of the project. He stated that the Commission has to view the project as an overall benefit to the City as a whole. He stated that it has been a long process to get to this point and that the Commission and staff have been working very hard to meet the wishes of the downtown business owners. He stated that he feels the parking issues can be worked out. Mr.Holme stated that the River's Edge Group approved the Bluff Block proposal,but not the Jackson Block. Chair Toth stated that the Bluff Block would not work without the Jackson Block component. S Mr.Holme expressed his concerns regarding the impact of the parking on the downtown business owners. Ms.Steinmetz stated that parking plans would be addressed as part of the Development Agreement. Mr.Holme stated that the property owners in the Bluff Block location are not aware that condemnation is being discussed. Chair Toth stated that the Commission has an obligation to ensure that issues such as parking and condemnation are addressed in the Development Agreement. Rob VanValkenberg,downtown business owner,stated that when he sold the Cinema building to Chuck Christian a year ago,the Jackson Block proposal was not in the project. He expressed concerns regarding parking for the business owners in the Cinema building. Marcy VanValkenberg, Elk River Travel,stated that she felt that Elk River residents should be allowed to vote whether or not they are in favor of the project. Chair Toth stated that city staff continues to provide information at the Downtown River's Edge meetings,but that the business owners do not have a clear understanding of what is happening because they are not attending the meetings. Chair Toth stated that Otsego continues to grow and provide competition for the City of Elk River. He stated that he feels competition brings new business and increases the potential for helping existing businesses.