04-03-2023 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing and Redevelopment Minutes April 3, 2023 Page 3 Mr. O'Neil noted the City Council will discuss at a retreat in May the possibilities of the downtown restrooms. Councilmember Wagner indicated she would like the entire area included in the review including the Houlton parking property. Commissioner Ovall will join Mr. O'Neil to include Houlton's participation in future planning of downtown parking. Mr. O'Neil indicated the parking lot needs some repairs and will mange those repairs with public works for short- and long-term repairs or a redo. Commissioner Wagner noted it will be a few months before any repairs can be made. Commissioner Wagner asked the authority if there were anything the council can do to help staff. Mr. O'Neil felt it important to find a balance of patience in getting where they want to be and determining the best outcome by looking at the entire area. Chair Chuba asked that the council looks at everything that is feasible, either by renting or buying an existing building or space. Mr. O'Neil stated there are many parcels that could be cleaned up and platted. Commissioner Cannon agreed that it was best to look far out and not independently at just the meat market site for future improvements. Mr. O'Neil noted he asked Veit for the breakdowns of costs, materials, and appliances and will distribute it to the HRA once he receives it. Commissioner Cannon asked about the community feedback from the demolition. Mr. O'Neil stated there was a lot of sentimental feelings put forth by the Robeck's in the video interview created for the public which answered questions about the demolition, and the Star News also played a good role in explaining the demolition. Commissioner Larson -Vito suggested to continue publicizing to keep the public aware of what 11"'*N1 the downtown could be and the guidance and vision from the Comprehensive Plan. 8.2 Review Housing Study Benchmarks Mr. O'Neil presented the staff report and distributed a handout, explaining the housing addition units added since 2018 Maxfield Housing Study. The study did not distinguish between market rate versus affordable options. This document can be used as a guide for the HRA and City Council when requests come in and whether to support a project. Commissioner Wagner asked that the City Council also receive this update. She explained how important an update to the study will be especially after the 169 Redesign and future gravel mining development, and the desire to bring in more services without raising property taxes. Chair Chuba noted he felt an update to the study is necessary and felt the 2018 study is no longer relevant with the conditions changing due to the timing of the pandemic, crime, and other factors. 8.3 Park Land Vacation Mr. O'Neil presented the staff report. After some discussion, it was the consensus of the commission to decline the park land properties. 9. Motion to Adjourn r o r E S i® ® 1 NATURE]