10-06-2008 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing & Redevelopment authority October 6, 2008 Page 2 residential units to qualifying displaced families. Ms. Mehelich stated that rental of the units would have no impact on the development agreement for the Bluff Block. Commissioner Toth questioned who decides who can rent the units? (Richard Schroeder, representing MinnWest Bank -stated that rental of the units would be managed by Acuity Management Company, and they would ensure that the tenants were actually displaced by the fire, and that they met credit guidelines. Commissioner Lieser questioned the October 31, 2009 lease termination date. Mr. Schroeder stated that he was given the date. He noted that their goal is to sell the units and that the units would still be available for sale. He explained that they have a number of other units that are total finished or near completion, but that if someone wanted to buy a particular unit that is rented, the tenant could be moved to another space. Ms. Mehelich stated that the October 31, 2009 date was proposed by the city's attorney and was not set by the property owner. Commissioner Motin stated that he appreciated's offer to rent the units. He asked if the owners currently in the building have been contacted regarding this proposal. Mr. Schroeder stated that the condo owners will be notified at a meeting scheduled for October 8~, at which time the homeowners will approve the by-laws and elect a chair. Commissioner Motin asked how long before the Lions Park Apartments would be inhabitable. Mr. Gongoll noted that the tenants on the east side of the building have been allowed back into their homes, but that it may be at least a year before the reconstruction is completed. Commissioner Moon stated that he is in favor of the temporary rental of the Bluff units, but does not to want it to turn into long-term rental property. Mr. Schroeder stated that MinnWest Bank has no interest in being a landlord and their goal is to sell the condos as quickly as possible. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER LIESER TO APPROVE RESOLUTION NO. 08-03, A RESOLUTION RECOMMENDING AUTHORIZING RENTAL OF CERTAIN UNITS IN BLUFF BLOCg DEVELOPMENT, WITH THE FOLLOWING CHANGE: • CHANGE THE LEASE TERMINATION DATE FROM OCTOBER 31, 2009 TO DECEMBER 31, 2009 MOTION CARRIED 3-0. 6. Update on Housing Rehabilitation Programs Ms. Deckert reviewed the information provided in the Commissioners' packets regarding housing rehab programs available to residents, and the marketing plan for these programs proposed by staff. She noted that the information will be published in the Elk River Star News as well. Commissioner Lieser noted that she is very excited about the potential partnership with the Minnesota Center for Energy and Environment.