Minutes

New Brighton Economic Development Commission

Regular Meeting – June 13, 2000

7:30 a.m.

Roll Call

Present:	Rakesh Agarwala Bob Benke, Gene Delaune, Carol Frey, Dennis Flahave,

Matt Fulton, John Kaufhold, Kevin Locke, Mark Nelson, Maxine Pierson, Rosalyn Scaff

Absent:	Linda Harmon, Ken Johnson, Steve Larson, Ann Hoffman

Call to Order

John Kaufhold, called the meeting to order at 7:35 a.m.

Brighton Village Update

Kevin talked about the meeting held between Dan Engelsma and Cynthia Hable of KA; Jim McComb of the McComb Group; and Mayor Larson, Matt Fulton, Kevin Locke, and Rosalyn Scaff. McComb talked about the current findings of his market analysis. His assessment is that the market could support a roughly 25,000 sq ft grocery store. McComb also emphasized that the grocery market in the metro area is extremely competitive and pointed out that Brighton Village is surrounded by two large grocery stores. Consequently, while the market for a grocery store exists, it might be hard if not impossible to find a small grocer that would willingly accept retail space in Brighton Village. McComb will continue with his market analysis and will look at other potential uses for the site.

During the meeting KA talked about their discussions with Watson's, a national chain of pool, pool equipment, patio furniture and other home entertainment accessories. Watson's is interested in a short-term lease (roughly three years) and would like to have a pool showcase in the front of the building. The City voiced their disappointment with this retail choice and emphasized their interest in long-term solutions for the site.

EDC members expressed their concern over the potential placement of Watson's in Brighton Village and the short-term approach taken by KA. Discussions centered around:

•	what type of uses would the City support and how do we push for dramatic improvement of the area,

•	the potential and timeliness for a total redevelopment and overhaul of the site,

•	the need for a grocery store with specialized departments, and

•	the need for a shopping area that supports and relates to the neighborhood and community.

NW Quadrant

Kent Carlson and Craig Rapp continue to evaluate the parcels and costs involved in acquiring sites. Ryan has also been looking at potential urban design firms for the area. Jim Cassery, one of the City's lawyers, has been gathering data on the site to assess the potential TIF revenues to be generated from redevelopment. Mayor Larson and Matt Fulton attended a transportation meeting that addressed the transportation route changes along 694, I35W and 96. These changes could have impacts on the NWQ that will need to be considered in the design of the area.

Other Business

The Dalco project was approved by the Planning Commission and will go to the City Council on the June 25th agenda. The latest site plan shows some glass on the warehouse facing 5th Street.

Adjourn

The meeting adjourned at 8:45 a.m.