12-05-2005 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing & Redevelopment Authority December 5, 2005 Page 2 Chair Wilson asked Mr. Zehringer to explain how the mortgages on the Habitat for Humanity homes work. Mr. Zehringer indicated that the houses are sold to low income families for $104,000. The mortgage is through Habitat and normally requires no money down and no interest. He stated that the family must meet certain requirements and they must be employed. Jim Boyle, Habitat for Humanity — distributed a handout explaining the Habitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2006 program. Mr. Boyle stated that if anyone has an idea for a lot they should contact either him or Mr. Zehringer. 5. Downtown Revitalization Protect Update Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich stated that closing on the Bluff and Jackson projects did not take place in November as planned. Ms. Mehelich stated that there are a few issues that need to be resolved prior to the closing, mainly having to do with language in the Development Agreement that will affect the marketability of selling the TIF revenue note. She indicated that staff and the developer are working hard to have the closing on the Bluff Block take place this year and are still waiting to hear from the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency on a closing date for the Jackson project. Ms. Mehelich explained that staff felt rather than waiting for the Jackson closing to take place, it would be better to relocate the flag pole now before the ground freezes. She stated that staff has been in contact with the company that will relocate the flag pole and it may be moved within the next two weeks. Ms. Mehelich noted that the flag was damaged and has been taken down but will be replaced upon relocation of the flag pole. She stated that downtown business owners will be notified prior to the flag pole's relocation since it will affect some parking spaces the day of the move. Ms. Mehelich reported that the City Council recently chose to remove the sign that prohibited left turns from Parrish Avenue onto Main Street based on a recommendation from the Chief of Police. 6. Form Based Zoning Education Update Assistant Director of Economic Development Heidi Steinmetz stated that last month the HRA indicated an interest in learning about form based zoning. Ms. Steinmetz indicated that staff anticipates the training will take place during the January 24, 2006 Planning Commission worksession pending Chair Anderson's approval. She stated that staff will provide additional details at the January 3, 2006 HRA meeting. 8. Other Business There was no other business. Adi ournment There being no further business, Chair Wilson adjourned the meeting. The meeting of the Elk River Housing and Redevelopment Authority adjourned at 5:27 p.m.