CCP 11-26-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES New Brighton Economic Development Commission Approved Regular Meeting—October 16, 2012 7:30 a.m. Members/Liaisons Present: Paul Zisla, Mike Murlowski, Al Potter, Marie Hansen,Vivian Neumann- Walker, Bruce Knight and Councilmember Mary Burg Members/Liaisons Absent: Commissioner Linda Zelm, Commissioner D.L. Beach Staff Present: Grant Fernelius-Community Development Director, Katie Bruno-Office Assistant. Guests Present: None Call to Order Chair Zisla called the meeting to order at 7:30 a.m Approval of Minutes Motion by Commissioner Potter, seconded by Commissioner Murlowski to approve the minutes from the August 21, 2012 meeting. Approved 6-0 Report from Council Liaison Councilmember Burg reported that Community Partners with Youth will be having its fundraising Gala on October 26th at the Community Center. The City is considering partnering with Ramsey County for Gang/Drug Task Force training. New Brighton Exchange Preliminary Discussions of APi Group Expansion Plans Chairperson Zisla explained that this item is for discussion only at this point. Director Fernelius reported that earlier this year, APi Group (APi) expressed some interest in looking at future space needs and evaluating the possibility of expanding elsewhere in New Brighton Exchange. The discussions included the small area near the corner of their existing site and the vacant sites north and east of their property. Fernelius gave a brief background, noting that APi was one of the first development proposals received for New Brighton Exchange in 2007. The current building is smaller than originally anticipated; APi agreed to build a second building by December 31, 2008. Construction of the foundation was started in the summer of 2007; because of the economic downturn construction was suspended in fall of 2007. The contract was most recently amended in May of 2012. The current contract language required APi to resume construction on or before August 1, 2012 and be substantially complete by December 31, 2012. APi indicated that they are not sure if the 9,000 square foot building would be beneficial, and a larger building would result in parking concerns. APi has expressed interest in Block G; however Stuart Companies has a development right to Block G until January 1, 2014. Fernelius reported that early indications were that Stuart Companies are not interested in the site. Chairperson Zisla asked if there have been discussions with APi regarding alternative locations. Director Fernelius stated that there are planning guidelines that dictate where residential and commercial developments occur.