6. EDSR 10-11-2010 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ITEM ~6. MEMORANDUM TO: Economic Development Authority FROM: Jeremy Barnhart, Planning Manager DATE: October I I , 20 I 0 SUBJECT: Focused Area Study Implementation This memo is intended as an update on the status of the implementation of the Focused Area study. Regulatory changes. Staff is preparing zoning ordinance amendments that would codify the regulatory changes suggested by the FAST study. Staff anticipates the Planning Commission reviewing it at their October 26`" worksession, with formal review expected to follow in November. A component of the zoning ordinance amendment will include design standards, which will be patterned after the Downtown Standards but with wider applicability. Infrastructure. Staff is currently working on the development of several options relative to infrastructure improvements, and anticipates a joint City Council/ Economic Development meeting in the near future (likely November 8th) to discuss these options. The goal behind this process is to allow the Council to determine the most appropriate way to position the area for growth. This positioning is seen by staff as a key issue toward the ultimate marketability of the area. Staff is currently meeting with professionals in the development field to get a better understanding of the issues observed from the "private sector" side of the development equation. Property acquisition. Staff has begun internal discussions on identifying parcels necessary toward the implementation of the FAST study. The goal behind this plan is that should parcels become marketed for sale; the City has an evaluation tool in which to consider these parcels, given the limited funds available. These parcels may include those necessary fox road or highway improvements, storm water, wetland/greenway preservation, or utility easements. This plan will be forwarded to the EDA and City Council for further discussion, likely this winter.