11-02-2009 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing & Redevelopment Authority November 2, 2009 Page 3 Commissioner Motin stated that he suggested staff speak with Tim Simon, Finance Director, and it may be an option to spread out the $7,000 expense. Mr. Raymond stated it also may be an option to obtain a donation or grant to help cover the costs. Chair Wilson stated that based on comments received, staff is authorized to negotiate a lease with the Arts Alliance for another year. He noted that the Commission will act on the lease at next month's meeting. 6. Update on Elk River Neighborhood Stabilization Program Ms. Mehelich provided an update on the Elk River NSP activities funded to date, including down payment assistance, purchase rehabilitation assistance, acquisition rehabilitation, and recent changes in the NSP Program to the targeted neighborhoods and down payment assistance. Ms. Mehelich also updated the Commission on staff's current activities regarding the NSP program and foreclosure prevention. Commissioner Toth questioned the inclusion of Grandview Addition in the targeted neighborhoods list. Ms. Mehelich stated that the same income and discount appraisal guidelines would be applied to homes in this area as they do to other targeted neighborhoods. Commissioner Lieser asks who markets the homes for Tri -Cap. Ms. Mehelich stated that Tri -Cap will select a realtor themselves. 7. Other Business Northstar Corridor Commissioner Motin noted that the grand opening of the Northstar Corridor commuter rail will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2009 beginning at 10:30 a m He stated that approximately 200 tickets are still available (one per person). The tickets will need to be turned in to get a boarding pass by 11:30 a m Basic Outreach Commissioner Lieser explained that Basic Outreach is a faith -based non-profit organization which provides emergency shelter by working with local churches. She stated that the beds and equipment to operate the shelters are portable and can travel from church to church. She stated the shelters open at 5:00 p.m. to provide showers and a warn place to sleep for the night. Ms. Lieser stated that Sherburne County currently sends homeless people in Elk River to St. Cloud. Chair Wilson stated that homelessness in Elk River is an issue the HRA could have as a goal to tackle in the future. Commissioner Lieser stated that currently Central Lutheran and United Methodist churches have volunteered to participate in the program. Ms. Mehelich asked how the services would be advertised. Commissioner Lieser stated that they hope to have coverage in the local newspaper, but for now, would be word of mouth. She stated that law enforcement currently refer people to Social Services at Sherburne County. Commissioner Lieser noted that Guardian Angels currently provides low cost housing to seniors over the age of 62.