08-20-2024 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing and Redevelopment Authority Minutes August 20, 2024 --------- Page 2 of 5 outlined in the draft amendment included in the staff report, is supported by the city attorney. Lastly, the buyer is requesting the buyer's right to extend due diligence through the building permit application and approval process. Mr. O'Neil added that initially a Development Agreement was considered to be a requirement for this project but has since concluded that it won't be necessary. This requirement can be removed from the agreement or a statement of affirmation can be agreed to that either both parties decline it or feel this provision has been met. Mr. O'Neil noted the quote that Mr. Touchette obtained for restoration of non-compacted soils should be discussed. Ron Touchette, Rock Solid Companies, stated it was his understanding, based upon documents obtained from the city and his own soil samples, that where the four basements were excavated was where the fill was needed. He stated he felt when the basements were removed, it was cheaper to fill in with construction debris and leave the sites uncompacted. Chair Chuba asked if in the original agreement with Veit, who was the contractor who removed these buildings, was it noted how the sites would be left. Mr. O'Neil stated in a follow-up with Veit, the scope of work did not call for compacting the soils. Chair Chuba stated a project called for underground parking it wouldn't be an issue, but with the proposed slab on grade, it is problematic. Mr. Touchette explained the building was proposed to be on the corner but was moved due to project timelines and other circumstances. Commissioner Beaudry asked Mr. Touchette if these concerns could have been brought up sooner. Mr. Touchette stated he didn't have the soil report. He had requested all the reports and documents, but they weren't all available and felt it was because of a change in staff. Commissioner Ovall stated the HRA now knows it's a learning curve. Commissioner Caswell asked when the report was sent to Mr. Touchette. Mr. O'Neil stated he felt it was last summer prior to the first amendment during due diligence. Mr. Touchette stated it wasn't a new issue as it was brought up when discovered. The HRA discussed the previous soil borings. Commissioner Wagner stated she could support the warranties in the amount of $25,000. She stated she came onto the HRA after this project had started. She felt the HRA has been willing to work with the seller and agreed it was a unique site but also had to look at it from the point of the taxpayers. She wondered if the seller and HRA could share in the cost of the soil repairs. Mr. O'Neil asked if the soil repairs quote included all seven basements.