02-06-2023 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing and Redevelopment Minutes Page 4 February 6, 2023 ----------------------------- 7.1 724 Main Street Mr. O'Neil explained he wished to secure the meat market building demolition contractor; they will be available for demolition as soon as the third week of February. He stated the final details of an agreement are being worked out. To proceed on a late February timeline would require a special meeting of the HRA for consideration and approval of the contract. The HRA commissioners discussed their meeting availability. Mr. O'Neil then discussed some questions the contractor posed about certain elements of the site. Property: trees to the east of the property may need to be removed or become damaged during demolition. After discussion, it was the consensus of the HRA to have the trees along the side of the building removed as their roots would more than likely be compromised with building removal. Sidewalk: should the demolition contractor remove the sidewalk or leave it. There was no clear decision made on the sidewalk. Building footprint: Mr. O'Neil stated that staff compared the cost of asphalt for the site to planting grass and the difference is about $5,000 more to asphalt. He stated he knew there was a goal to look at the property for a higher use than lust parking and that the HRA has recommendation to consider. It would also be an option for the demo contractor to temporarily surface the space until spring. He would have a separate contract if grass were chosen. Commissioner Cannon felt since only preliminary discussions have taken place regarding future use of the space, an asphalt surface may be a satisfactory temporary hardscape and 'blend into the area until further details of the site are decided upon. Chair Chuba asked about when asphalt companies begin spring work, and if we would gain any more parking spaces given the footprint. He also inquired if grass was chosen, who would water and maintain the grass. Commissioner Ovall asked about contacting First Bank and inquiring about a partnership with them. Mr. O'Neil indicated there is an easement agreement with First Bank about the parking area and did reach out to them with the initial focus of gaining permission for demo crews and fire department to be on site for their training. Commissioner Ovall would like green space, not asphalt, and felt that was what was decided at the prior meeting. He felt there was a need for green space downtown and could become part of the bigger plan. He doesn't see putting money into blacktop. He requested fill,