Minutes

New Brighton Economic Development Commission

Regular Meeting – August 14, 2001

7:30 a.m.

Members/Liaisons Present:

Rakesh Agarwala, Bob Benke, Dennis Flahave, Linda Harmon, Ken Johnson, John Kaufhold, Steve Larson, Maxine Pierson (7:40 a.m.), Char Samuelson, Jeanne Smith.

Members/Liaisons Absent:

Eugene Delaune, Mark Nelson.

Staff Present:

Matt Fulton, David Black.

Others Present:

Nancy Kneeland, Lois Zweig.

Call to Order

Ken Johnson called the meeting to order at 7:30 a.m.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the June 12, 2001 and July 10, 2001 meetings were presented for approval. Kaufhold noted that he had asked whether there would be any guarantee of providing the hotel amenities to the senior housing residents. He was concerned that the City could incur some liability by endorsing the development, should such amenities we withdrawn or modified at some point. Black indicated that this comment would be added to the final copy. With that modification, all approved.

Brighton Village Redevelopment

Black reported that three meetings had been held in the last month to receive comments on the proposed development. Two of the meetings were heavily attended, and there were numerous concerns expressed about the hotel and concerns about the process. Staff met following the meetings, and decided to recommend the formation of a task force. This group would be broadly representative of the community, and could review the various issues and concerns. The Council will be asked to approve the recommendation on August 28th.

Benke asked what might be developed if the current proposal is rejected. Fulton indicated that several possibilities had been discussed, including an administration building for the Mounds View Schools, a library, or some type of community gathering space, all of which are very preliminary. He noted that the loud voices at the meetings were focused almost entirely on the hotel, and that there were many other aspects of a project to review. He expressed hope that the community's best interests would be considered by the task force.

Samuelson expressed support for the task force process, but was concerned about removing property from the tax rolls. Harmon also expressed support for the task force. Benke suggested that tenants from the center be included on the task force. Harmon agreed, suggesting other businesses be included as well. Pierson noted that this is an important, visible corner, and hoped that any development provide a positive statement about New Brighton. Agarwala expressed concern that continued delays give an image of decline. Samuelson noted that some residents support an upscale hotel, and suggested that the task force look at the feasibility. Harmon indicated that input from the Chamber of Commerce would be welcome. Fulton agreed, indicating that businesses would be represented, along with members from the EDC and the Planning Commission and a representative from the schools.

Agarwala moved that the EDC recommend to the City Council that a task force be formed to recommend a course of action for Brighton Village, reporting within 60 days. Kaufhold seconded, suggesting that a broad spectrum of interests be included. All approved.

Legislative Changes

Black summarized the major changes in the property tax system, and the significant reductions in the revenue that would be available for tax-increment financing. Benke added that it was assumed that cities would increase their local levies to offset the lost HACA aid, and also noted that limited market value was being phased out.

Update

Benke noted that Donnatelle Plastics was planning an expansion.

Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 a.m.