6. HRSR 11-05-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housin e ve p uthority Date ~ ~~ a y Page 2 Fred McCoy of McCoy's Pub -Stated that the 2006 contribution was used to cover the cost of city employees setting up barriers, on-duty police officer, portable toilets, and related expenses. He stated that over 300 people attended the event and he is hopeful the event will continue to grow. Mr. McCoy stated that without the HRA contribution, there may not be enough money coming in as gate fees to cover their expenses. Acting Chair Kuester asked if the event would be held at the same time as last year. Mr. McCoy stated that the event is scheduled one week earlier than last year. Commissioner Motin asked Ms. Steinmetz if an event has been planned for the completion of the downtown construction. Ms. Steinmetz stated that nothing has been planned. Ms. Mehelich stated that the downtown projects have been phased very differently, noting that the Jackson Place project will not be completed until late fall. She stated that the Bank of Elk River, Bluffs and city park projects are nearing completion. Ms. Mehelich stated that HRA contribution was not specifically tied to any of the projects, but for an overall grand opening of downtown. Commissioner Motin stated that he attended the 2006 event, noting that the Sunshine Depot did not participate and in fact, hired bands which took away from the River's Edge group event. Mr. McCoy stated that 150 - 175 people attended for the first band, and that the numbers dwindled for the second one. Commissioner Motin expressed concern for spending money on event that was not supported by all the downtown business owners. He stated that he was not opposed to the contribution, but that he would like to see the group work together to make the event successful. Mr. McCoy stated that he hopes to add a 5 - 10K running event to the block party schedule. He stated that when the new business space begins filling up in the downtown, he will try to work with the owners to participate in the event. Commissioner Lieser stated that since the HRA has already given informal approval to the expenditure, she felt they should go ahead and honor the contribution. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER LIESER AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER MOTIN TO AUTHORIZE THE $2,000 CONTRIBUTION FOR THE DOWNTOWN RIVER'S EDGE GROUP BLOCK PARTY SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 18, 2007. THE MOTION CARRIED 3-0. Ms. Mehelich noted that the contribution will be made in the same form as last year, by providing a police officer, staff time for setting up barriers, and services such as garbage, utilities, and will not be an actual cash contribution. Mr. McCoy stated that he was willing to incorporate the grand opening of the Bluffs of Elk River with the event. Commissioner Motin stated that the group should not expect a contribution from the HRA next year. Mr. McCoy stated that he understood and hoped that they would be able to support the event themselves next year. Discuss HRA Intentions for 716 & 720 Main Street Buildings ~` Ms. Mehelich provided background information regarding the subject properties. She stated that due to cost/benefit and the pending downtown parking study, that it may be premature