Minutes

New Brighton Economic Development Commission

Regular Meeting - December 14, 1999

7:30 a.m.

Roll Call

Present:	Mayor Bob Benke, Rakesh Agarwala, Carol Frey, Ken Johnson, John Kaufhold, Maxine Pierson, Char Samuelson, Kevin Locke, Rosalyn Scaff

Absent:	Eugene Delaune II, Linda Harmon, Ann Hoffman, Mark Nelson, Dean Tollefson

Call to Order

Ken Johnson, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:40 a.m.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the November 9, 1999 meeting were approved as written.

Brighton Village Update

EDC members expressed concern over Kowalski's decision to decline an offer for immediate development of the New Brighton Village Shopping Center site. Members further discussed the possible need for a grocery store or other more dramatic and innovative re-uses of the Lunds space. In an effort to clarify best uses for the site, a motion was passed to ask the Council to consider a market feasibility study assessing grocery store demand in the area.

The Commissioners elaborated on the need to establish a plan of action for the development of the site and their interest in working jointly with KA. Recommended key actions included meeting with Brighton Village businesses, contacting Firststar Bank to discuss future plans, and responding to KA's list of potential alternative uses.

NW Quad Update

Kevin Locke stated that Rebecca Yanisch, of Ryan Companies, will announce her campaign plans for a U.S. Senate seat by January 15, 2000.

Members expressed a need for restaurants in the area and asked what could be done to invite restaurant owners into the city. Mayor Benke stated that once a master plan is created it will be more feasible to approach businesses with potential development sites.

Other Business

Ken's Market redevelopment project is nearly complete.

The redevelopment agreement for TIF 26, Main Street Village, was on the council agenda for approval. Four homes have been acquired or agreements have been reached for acquisition.

Adjourn

The meeting adjourned at 9:20 a.m.