03-02-2009 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing & Redevelopment Authority March 2, 2009 Page 3 sale legal notice lists the property address, and suggested contacting the property owner to make then aware of counseling esources. Commissioner Toth asked how realtors are able to work with banks or mortgage companies to prevent damage to homes in foreclosure. Ms. Mehelich explained that the realtors are often contracted by banks or holding companies to monitor and maintain only after the homes have been vacated. Ms. Mehelich asked if the Commission was interested in a direct mailing. Commission Morin stated he was not in favor of a separate mailing, due to the cost. It was the consensus to direct staff to prepare an insert for the utility billing, to promote the assistance programs that are available. Discuss Improvements to HRA Buildings — 716 & 720 Main Street Ms. Mehelich stated that staff has been made aware that the buildings at 716 and 720 Main Street, owned by the HRA, have several roof leaks. Gary Lore, Building Maintenance Supervisor, stated that in consulting with a private contractor he was informed patching the problem areas is estimated to cost $3,500 and a re -roof at $35,000 — 40,000 per building. He noted that the rooftop HVAC unit may require major replacement in the future if the buildings continue to be occupied. He noted that no improvements have been made to the original roof other than patches. He stated that contractors do not want to deal with it, since they cannot guarantee it will not leak somewhere else. Mr. Lore stated that he was concerned about the 716 Main Street roof, since the Arts Alliance is using the building, and he would not want to see any artwork damaged by water. He noted that if the HRA chooses to re -roof the buildings, it may be more cost-effective to do both at the same time. Commissioner Toth asked if Mr. Lore could estimate the life left in the HVAC unit. Mr. Lore stated he would guess that it could last 2 — 5 years, and that replacement would cost approximately $5,000. Chair Stewart asked what the life of a new roof would be. Mr. Lore stated that it would be approximately 20 years. Commissioner Toth asked if the roof at 720 Main Street was also leaking. Mr. Lore stated that has not noticed any recent leaks, and that the heat is shut off. Mr. Lore stated that another option would be placement of a rubber membrane on the roof, which could be done if the plywood underneath is not damaged. He stated this would cost approximately $10 a square foot. Commissioner Motin stated that when the buildings were purchased, the intent was to tear them down, but due to the economy, this has been put off. He stated he could not support putting $35,000-40,000 into each of the buildings. Chair Wilson concurred. Commissioner Toth asked if they could have more information on the membrane only. Commissioner Kuester expressed concern for any safety or liability concerns if the roofs are not repaired/replaced. Commissioner Motin stated that he felt it would 5 —10 years before they would consider tearing down the buildings. He stated that he would not want to add $80,000 in expenses to maintain the buildings. Commissioner Toth asked who will decide when the buildings will be torn down.