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Housing and Redevelopment Minutes Page 2 <br /> February 25,2021 <br /> ----------------------------- <br /> Commissioner Swenson commented how not only is pedestrian traffic important to focus <br /> on in this area but so is vehicle traffic. <br /> Ms. Eddy asked the commission to recall from 2017 what they were envisioning at that time, <br /> and how has that changed over the past 4 years to what they are envisioning today. <br /> Commissioner Chuba felt since the district was zoned C2, they would have to conform to <br /> that. He does not feel a bed and breakfast, or residential homes fit well as he didn't feel it <br /> was an easy walk to services such as food. He felt they should conform to its current zoning <br /> with the desire to capture as much taxes as possible. AOOV <br /> Mr. Portner explained how the taxes are calculated based upon the building that is <br /> constructed on the property. He stated the city would receive more tax revenue for an <br /> apartment or commercial building. He noted a Highway 10 overpass is doable,but <br /> challenges exist and may take years, and commented on the need for ADA compliance. <br /> Commissioner Ovall stated Ramsey built a pedestrian overpass with elevators at their <br /> parking garage and have a future trail bridge planned over Highway 10. <br /> Mr. Portner commented that he worked for Brooklyn Park when the 252 pedestrian bridge <br /> was constructed and stated the cW44;:go was around$2.5 million. <br /> Commissioner Ovall stated he did not have a direct vision at the time this property was <br /> slated for redevelopment in 2017 but when he looks at the corridor from Highways 10 to <br /> 169 along Main,he is not a big proponent of retail, but he can envision professional services <br /> as seen in the C2 zoning district such as a daycare,personal services, or something like a <br /> Foss Swim School. He noted this will allow people coming and going and have this be a <br /> destination, service-orientated area. He noted safe access in and out is also important and <br /> traffic would not interrupt the neighborhood. <br /> Commissioner Chuba wondered if it would help to get the remaining home removed. <br /> Ms. Eddy stated they are continuing to work with the property owner, and she has contacted <br /> the city's attorney to review the city's options. She asked Commissioner Ovall his thoughts <br /> on whether he envisions a one level or two-story structure. <br /> Commissioner Ovall stated he envisions a mixed use building and having it be multi-story <br /> will add revenue and tax base. He noted the pandemic has changed the concept of an office <br /> with people working from home and stated there still may be a need for office rental to keep <br /> home life separate from work life. He commented retail will also go through its own <br /> renaissance. He feels this area will be a service-oriented or experience type destination.While <br /> he is open to it,his concern with residential housing is parking. <br /> The commission discussed rental housing and office rental spaces in the downtown area. <br /> Commissioner Swenson asked if revenue were a goal,what would be optimal to build in this <br /> space and as important,what does the community need in this area. She stated she likes the <br /> service industry (medical, dental) already in place. She noted traffic is a concern and agreed <br />