06-25-2007 DTMIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Redevelopment Framework Task Force Minutes Page 2 June 25, 2007 ------------------------------------------ describe some of the goals and specific area strategies (the text that describes the Illustrative Master Plan). Task Force member Stewart Wilson indicated that the draft plan does not include water based activities (just land based activities) for better utilizing the Mississippi River. Discussion ensued regarding this issue and the Task Force agreed that both water and land based activities should be specified within the Plan. Member Lance Lindberg reiterated his position, as he has done throughout the Task Force planning process, regarding his wishes and the Heritage Preservation Commission’s wishes, to preserve the “Cinema block” through the “Sunshine Depot block”. He added that he is concerned about the Main Street realignment as shown on the draft Illustrative Master Plan. Member Keith Holme asked for clarification that the draft Illustrative Master Plan shows that the buildings located along Main Street west of The Bluffs of Elk River to Lowell Avenue will all be redeveloped. Ms. Kvilvang stated that the Task Force had discussed this issue over time and that their preference has been to save the Brick Block. Director of Economic Development added that the Plan was drafted based only on Task Force’s discussion and direction. Member Louise Kuester stated her concern that the Task Force has not discussed how to balance the area’s historic context with the economic feasibility of redevelopment. Mr. Clark responded that the draft goals, policies and specific area recommendations (the text that describes the Illustrative Master Plan) address the issue of preserving the historic character of the area. Assistant Director of Economic Development added that the plan is supposed to be a 20-year vision and that any changes to the area would not happen overnight. Members Stewart Wilson, Jean Lieser and Chair Mark Urista stated that the Task Force should not limit the plan and that a 20-year vision is meant to provide opportunities for redevelopment in the future. Member Wilson added an example that the Brick Block was built with a long-term vision in mind because the buildings were built with higher quality design and materials. After much discussion, the majority of the Task Force agreed that any new buildings along the river should not be taller than The Bluffs building and that of the existing buildings downtown, only the Brick Block should be saved. Draft Goals, Policies and Specific Area Strategies Mr. Clark and Ms. Mehelich presented the draft goals, policies and strategies document, dated June 25, 2007, for each specific area (as listed below) in detail.  Recreational Opportunities  Core Downtown  Highway 10 Corridor th  North of Hwy 10− Jackson Avenue and 4 Street Corridors  Residential Neighborhoods (Single and Mutli-Family)  Proctor & Quinn Avenues The items were drafted based on Task Force discussion over eight meetings. Staff asked the Task Force for feedback on the draft document. The Task Force provided input on clarification to several th items to be included in the next draft version for Task Force review at its July 16 meeting.