07-07-2008 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing & Redevelopment Authority July 7, Zoos Page 4 more difficult to find the eligible applicants to receive it. She suggested increased marketing to help make the connection with available funds to interested and eligible applicants. Ms. Kuester suggested having local realtors making a presentation to the senior center regarding programs. She did not feel the city is in a position to set up their own program, but that by promoting the available programs, they could generate a list of items that are not covered anywhere else. Chair Wilson stated that a first step would be to market the rehab programs that are available. He stated previous discussion has indicated the HRA feels there are some neighborhoods that are in need of improvements. The HRA could take some role in directing owners of these properties to the rehab programs so that they can utilize them to fix up their properties. Ms. Deckert asked what specific marketing efforts the HRA would like staff to utilize. Commissioner Motin suggested using the cable channel and newsletter. Commissioner Kuester suggested a process of using steps, and evaluating the results, to determine whether or not they should continue or try something else. Commissioner Motin suggested that the Star News provide an article regarding the programs. Downtown Revitalization Project Update Jackson Place Ms. Mehelich stated that she spoke with the commercial broker and there is no new information regarding new leads or tenants. He expressed appreciation to staff for their assistance in marketing the property through the city's website. Bluffs of Elk River Ms. Mehelich introduced Stephanie Danielson of Avalar Minnesota Real Estate, who is actively marketing the condos. Ms. Danielson stated that Donna Bush of Uniquely Yours has been "key" in redesigning the project. She stated her team includes Chad from TechWork Marketing and Dustin Heggum, general contractor for the project, and Molly Peterson-Nadeau owner of Town Mortgage, who has been involved in the downtown redevelopment project. She stated that Molly is helping with getting the FHA financing going for the project, so that they can sell to all income ranges. She stated that MinnWest Bank is the current owner/seller for the project. A PowerPoint presentation was made at this time, which included photos of the interior and exterior of the building. Ms. Danielson stated that 3 of the 67 units are occupied by residents at this time and were sold previously. Eight units are completed models, which have been redesigned and updated. She noted that the pricing has been reduced. Ms. Danielson stated that approximately 1, 000 people attended the grand opening event on June 19th. There are 19 different floor plans to chose from and can be customized. She reviewed the various amenities of the units including individual heating/cooling systems, all appliances; most units have a maintenance free-decking balcony. Other amenities of the project include electronic camera security, a shared exercise room, a community room with 2 flat-screen televisions, a pool table, game area, reading area, and 2 balconies for outside seating. One garage space is included with each unit, and an additional garage stall can be purchase separately for $15,000. Ms. Danielson stated that the office is open for showing Thursdays through Sundays, from 1 - 5 p.m. Size of the units (1 and 2 bedrooms) range from 700 square feet - 1,300 square