6.0. EDSR 02-11-2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Authority Minutes Page 3 June 11, 2007 ------------------------------------------ Mr. Barnhart verified that the EDA indicated a preference for the land layout in option B. He indicated that based on the EDA's direction, staff will begin discussions with neighboring property owners regarding land acquisition. Commissioner Motin noted that staff should also initiate discussions with Cargill. He added that he is not interested in the city land being bought out unless strict development restrictions are placed on the land in order to control project quality. Mr. Barnhart questioned the EDA's timing goal for opening of the Gateway project. President Gongoll stated that the roads and utilities could be constructed and the market could dictate the rest., but agreed that these improvements not be made by spring 2008. The EDA concurred to wait for the market/development before moving dirt, but have preliminary plans ready to go. 6. Update on Downtown Redevelopment Plan Taskforce Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich provided an update on the Downtown Redevelopment Plan Taskforce meeting. Ms. Mehelich explained that at the last meeting, a large group visioning took place. She reviewed the proposed timeline as follows: ^ June 25 - Taskforce's first review of draft plan ^ July - Taskforce's final review of draft plan ^ August -Plan distributed to boards and commissions for comment ^ September -Three open houses held to gain public input ^ October/November -Taskforce review input received from boards/commissions and public ^ December - HRA and Council adoption of plan Ms. Mehelich outlined a few of the items identified by the Taskforce as part of the plan: 1. Revitalize and strengthen residential housing areas adjacent to the downtown. 2. Enhance the connection to the river. 3. Redefine core downtown from the traditional retail focus to improve economic success. Look at other market opportunities like residential and specialized commercial to strengthen the area. 4. Identify different land uses for north of Highway 10 to help maximize the market opportunities but not compete with the southside of Highway 10 and the core downtown. Other Business Ms. Mehelich indicated that Alliance Machine, 17520 Tyler Street, is having an open house on June 13 from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. to celebrate their new building. Adjournment There being no other business, President Gongoll adjourned the meeting of the Elk River Economic Development Authority at 6:14 p.m. Minutes prepared by Jessica Miller.