01-21-1986 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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PAGE 3 COUNCIL MINUTES JANUARY 21. 1986 He noted the m1n1mum space needed for Century 21/White Dove realty is 2.000 square feet and the minimum space needed for the Terpstra Black law office of 1.500 square feet. He noted the former Ben Franklin store has 5.000 square feet. He stated the parking situation is not suitable for the number of employees. He indicated he had contacted the owner of the building and was informed that he is about ready to enter into a contract to lease the space and further that there are three other people interested in the space. Mr. Terpstra stated there is no suitable space available in downtown Elk River. He indicated he felt downtown Elk River is a viable place for retail trade and further that he is interested in keeping the downtown Elk River as retail and not putting it all to use as office area. Mr. Terpstra indicated that the former Hagens Super Va1u is not a suitable space for an office type operation. Jack Terpstra indicated there is a need as well as an opportunity to develop these two parcels for constructive and useful businesses for the town and an opportunity to keep business in the downtown area. Mayor Hinkle opened the public hearing. Mr. Lloyd Anderson responded to the idea of keeping the edge in the downtown area. He noted that the reality in this case is that the edge was broken many years ago. He indicated he felt commercial zoning should be consistent on both sides of Main Street. He noted the zone change would even up the edge so as to be compatible on both sides of the street. Mr. Jerry Smith. an employer of White Dove Realty indicated that all the sites available in the Elk River area are retail sites. He noted their goal is not to rent another site. but to purchase so they can become stable in the downtown area. Gene Chouinard of White Dove Realty noted they employ 20 people. He indicated the business is a big help to the City for employment. He noted they are very cramped for space in their present office. Mayor Hinkle closed the public hearing. Councilmember Schuldt indicated that the concerns for the neighborhood were not discussed. He indicated that if the zoning were passed on the basis of Main Street being the logical extension of downtown. then it could conceivably go as far as Lake Orono. He also stated that if West Main Street is turned into a two mile commercial strip. then the north area will never develop.