04-01-2024 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing and Redevelopment Authority Minutes April 1, 2024 --------- Page 4 of 6 The regular meeting adjourned at 6:04 p.m. Chair Chuba called the work session to order at 6:07 p.m. 8.1 724 Main Street Utilization in 2024 Mr. O’Neil opened the discussion about downtown Main Street and the former Meat Market site and noted the speaker at Open Forum provided an introduction to this topic, which was: what do we want to see in the downtown greenspace. He stated the downtown group has also reached out to him to request, in the short-term, more temporary amenities than just grass, as the city contemplates the long- term plan for the area. He stated the Planning and Engineering departments are taking the lead on the long-term plan by hiring a consultant in conjunction with a future redesign of the area to include a future rebuild of Main Street. Mr. O'Neil asked the members of the HRA, since they are the owners of the property and can guide the future of the use of the space, if they have an interest in more than greenspace. He stated there are strong requests to do more here and the potential of low-cost amenities. Staff notes, maintenance of the greenspace is always an issue and currently the maintenance is low, but if you add temporary amenities, it adds to the care. Also, would you open up the opportunities to any entity to provide amenities as a matter of fairness. The HRA commission discussed the short- and long-term possibilities for the site. The short-term includes temporary chairs and picnic tables, long term includes restrooms. Temporary bathrooms are placed downtown for the Farmers Market but they are in demand and seem to be a much desired amenity for the entire downtown area. The HRA Commission discussed ADA compliance, which was a concern of Jim Stenglein, the gentleman who spoke at Open Forum. Mr. O'Neil explained the ratio of the number of handicapped accessible parking spaces downtown has been reviewed and does comply with the requirements. He noted the most recent concerns involved retrofitting where the sidewalk meets the curb, and updates to the ramps from the road to the sidewalk. He also noted the sidewalk pavers were a concern and would require a fix in the next year or two. The HRA Commission discussed the temporary chairs and tables that could be provided and discussed concerns with placement directly on the grass or one pacers, and securing them from theft. Commissioner Wagner provided her input regarding her use of Furniture and Things tables and chairs at her downtown business. She indicated the furniture is sturdy, they deliver and pick up after the season, and require little cleaning. She stated they do secure the furniture. She reiterated her passion for this space to be used for a higher purpose. She didn't feel it needed to go on pavers. She also expressed concerns with parking perceptions. Chair Chuba expressed concerns with grass wear, the possibility of mud, and security issues where a camera should be installed. He felt it important to honor the offer that was received by Mr. Hickman. Mr. O'Neil noted this felt like a resolution to accept a free will donation and formally accept the service at their own cost could be passed. Commissioner Wagner suggested putting down Class 5 where the items will be located to mitigate wear on the grass. It was the consensus of the HRA to consider the offer by Furniture and Things at the May meeting and work out the details with them.