06-01-2009 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing & Redevelopment Authority Page 3 June 1, 2009 ----------------------------- Ms . Hoffman stated that approximately 3.6 acres is needed to accommodate the footprint of the proposed project. She reviewed a brief PowerPoint presentation which provided general information on the proposal. The proposed site is located in the southwest corner of School Street and Jackson Avenue. She explained that a letter of intent has been sent to the seller. Also, they have received a $20,000 grant from Fannie -Mae for preliminary expenses. Ms. Hoffman provided information regarding the need for this type of a project in Elk River, citing support from Sherburne County Community Social Services. Commissioner Toth asked what will happen if their proposed funding source "dries up". Ms. Hoffman stated that they will pursue funding in October from MHFA She noted that the fust two applications for funding the Princeton project were not approved, but the third was approved. She stated that she believes if they can demonstrate the need, the funding will eventually come through. Commissioner Toth stated that the proposed location is under consideration by the City for long-range planning. Ms. Mehelich noted that the Planning Commission and City Council will take into account the draft plan. The draft plan proposed mixed uses for this area, including office and single family/multi-familyhousing. Commissioner Toth stated that he had a concern that the location of the proposed building could impact the future widening of Jackson. Ms. Hoffman stated that theywill be proposing a Planned Unit Development (PUD). They are hoping to persuade the seller to split the property. She explained their original plan included an apartment building similar to Jackson Place, in addition to the supportive housing project being proposed currently. Chair Wilson asked if there were objections to the Princeton project regarding the type of housing or the people who would be living there. Ms. Hoffman stated that there was some concern, but people understood the project once they had more information about the need. Chair Wilson asked if numbers were available on the need in Elk River. She stated that she did not have the actual numbers with her this evening, but based on the number of foreclosures in Elk River, the demand on Sherburne County Social Services and people requesting homeless assistance, and the CAER food shelf, and the number, the need is clear. Ms. Hoffman noted that $365,000 in local funds were raised from the Princeton area community to cover the costs of moving Rum River Health Services' offices to the Belle Haven location. Commissioner Motin stated he does feel there is a need for this type of housing, but he questions the location and how adjacent property uses may be impacted, such as Lions Park and the schools. He stated that more information maybe needed about how the program is run. Ms. Hoffman explained that the program is for families with individuals who have been through treatment, have a history of recovery, and are looking for a sober lifestyle. She stated that some people come to them literallywith nothing. She stated that families in the program have made incredible progress in the stable, supportive environment. The location is ideal because many families have children who would attend the schools, play in the park, and utilize the Boys & Girls Club. Families rarely have a vehicle or driver's license and need to be close to these services as well as shopping. She stated Rum River Health Services