12-06-2016 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing and Redevelopment Minutes Page 4 December 5,2016 Commissioner Eder stated the HRA would need to know what the costs are to provide the pots and to maintain them. She stated that if the HRA s going to invest funds, they need to do it right and ensure they will be maintained. Wagner stated that last year, the Master Gardeners maintained the pots. Discussion followed regarding the difficulties with the spruce tips in the pots, due to weather conditions and timing of their delivery. Chair Toth stated that he could see the benefit of contracting out for maintenance. CM Wagner stated that the Downtown group's desire is to have more pots,as they build up membership and funds,the association will be able to contribute more. She noted they are working hard to increase their membership. She stated that they have increased their membership fees in order to do these types of things,but unfortunately, they only have 35 paying members at this time. Discussion followed regarding the scope of the River's Edge Downtown group's target membership area. Mr. McCoy stated they include Elk River Dental to the west,businesses on Railroad Drive,and from the Bank of Elk River to the east along Main Street includes businesses on Jackson and King Avenues. Chair Toth asked what area is included in the Mississippi Connections study area. Ms. Othoudt stated that the study area included the Downtown District, across railroad tracks, all the way to School Street,and nearly reaching Highway 169. Wagner stated that they try very hard to get everyone to participate. She noted that they meetin g at 2:30 on Wednesdays,and that is hard for some entrepreneurs to attend since they may be the one running the daily business. Mr. McCoy noted that they don't have a way to raise money, other than the membership dues from businesses. Further discussion followed regarding the improvements,including benches,bike racks and flower pots. Ms. Othoudt stated that they would not be able to partner with the Arts Alliance as mentioned, since they are no longer in existence. She stated that are look at allocating funds for improvements for the next three years. She stated that staff will work with the downtown group to come up with some solid ideas to bring back to the HRA for approval. Commissioner Chuba asked what has been implemented during the past four years since the Mississippi Connections plan approval. Ms. Othoudt explained that they have implemented the Downtown Rehab program,the downtown lights,and they are currently working on acquiring properties to redevelopment Main Street. Commissioner Eder suggested the group get quotes from nurseries to provide and maintain pots. She stated that if not going to be maintained,it would make no sense spending the money. Chair Toth stated that it was not the HRA's responsibility to get into specifics. He stated the HRA could decide where to spend the money,and how much each year,but that he would --� like the downtown group to come up with a plan,including initial costs and maintenance costs.