10-13-2008 EDA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Authority Minutes October 13, 2008 Page 2 Ms. Deckert highlighted the Manufacturer's Week events. She stated that EDA members wishing to attend the tour of Classic Acrylics and the luncheon should RSVP to the Chamber by October 14. Ms. Deckert also highlighted the Retail Trade Analysis. She explained that the workshop has been scheduled for Thursday, November 13 at 9 a.m. at City Hall. She noted that invitations will be mailed and an update with additional details would be provided at the next EDA meeting. 6. Discuss 1715L Avenue Focused Area Studv Mr. Gongoll presented the staff report. Commissioner Klinzing explained that she believes all three firms have strengths and questioned how staff arrived at the decision to recommend the Cuningham Group. Mr. Gongoll stated that all three firms have strengths and noted that extensive discussion was held at the staff level and based on that he is recommending Cuningham. Ms. Johnson stated it was a split decision at the staff level and that it was not unanimous to recommend Cuningham. Commissioner Klinzing suggested the three firms come before the EDA so questions and concerns regarding their proposals can be addressed. Vice President Tveite stated that if one of the firms is chosen it should be made very clear that the second phase cannot contradict the first phase of the project. Commissioner Zerwas expressed concern that the RFP did not consider the larger area in total because the Request for Proposal map described a detailed boundary and the EDA's direction was to study the larger area. Ms. Mehelich explained she spoke to all three firms and they are all very cognizant to the fact that what happens in the first phase of the project determines what happens in subsequent phases. Ms. Johnson stated staff understood the EDA's direction about the study. Ms. Johnson suggested an addendum to the RFP including the entire area be sent to the firms. She stated the EDA could interview all three firms if they wish. Commissioner Touchette questioned the timing of the study given the current changes in the financial market. He would like to hold off on the study for six months. Vice President Tveite indicated he would like to see a moratorium on development in this area if the EDA decides to wait six months. Commissioner Motin concurred. Commissioner Farber indicated he does not want to rush into a decision but does not want to see a moratorium. He would like to meet with the firms. Ms. Mehelich explained that based on her discussions with metro area developers, this is the best time for the City to undertake this study. She has been told developers are watching the northwest areas, especially near the rail stations, and believes the City should be prepared to respond to development requests. The consensus of the EDA was to send out an addendum to the RFP that would expand the study to include the entire study area, and to interview the three firms who submitted Request for Proposals for the project: Landform Engineering Company, LHB Corporation, and Cuningham Group at the next EDA meeting.