Minutes

New Brighton Economic Development Commission

Regular Meeting - March 10, 1998

7:30 a.m.

Roll Call

Present:	Rakesh Agarwala, Bob Benke, Eugene Delaune II, Carol Frey, Ann Hoffman, Ken Johnson, John Kaufhold, Maxine Pierson

Absent:	Dean Tollefson

Also Present:	Matt Fulton, City Manager

Jill Bishop, Economic Development Specialist

Kevin Locke, Director of Community Development

Cary Teague, City Planner

Meeting Called to Order

Ken Johnson, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:36 a.m.

Approval of Minutes

Benke moved and Hoffman seconded a motion to approve the minutes of February 10, 1998. Motion carried.

Introduction of New Commissioners

Commissioner Rakesh Agarwala and Eugene Delaune II were introduced and welcomed to the Commission.

Johnson announced the passing of Council Member and longtime Commission member, George Gregori. George had served on the Economic Development Commission for approximately eight years. As Chair of the Old Highway 8 visioning process, George provided a strong voice in keeping the corridor planning and redevelopment programs moving forward. Only two months into his term on the City Council, George was already an active and vital supporter of New Brighton.

The site plan for the County Road E-2 and 5th Ave NW project will be presented and discussed. All other items will be delayed and rescheduled for April.

BCP III Neighborhood Retail Project

Gary Vogel and Len Pratt presented their proposal for the neighborhood/retail project. The plan features a large passive park at the southeastern corner, scattered parking, a restaurant and bank up to the 5th Ave border, and common gathering areas. Buildings are set up by the streets in a downtown, pedestrian friendly environment that also allows sight lines to the retail areas in the back of the project. The developers are working with a leasing agent from Welsh Company to insure the economic viability of the project. Parking availability was raised as a concern. Commissioners discussed restaurant possibilities and suggested an upscale, family oriented establishment.

Commissioners suggested having this version of the project available at the Town Hall meeting Saturday to share with residents.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 a.m.