Minutes

New Brighton Economic Development Commission

Regular Meeting – September 11, 2001

7:30 a.m.

Members/Liaisons Present:

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

Members/Liaisons Absent:

Mark Nelson.

Staff Present:

Matt Fulton, Kevin Locke (7:45 am), David Black.

Call to Order

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

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the August 14, 2001 were approved.

Brighton Village Redevelopment

Black noted that the first meeting of the task force was scheduled for September 20th. Harmon asked who would chair the group. Larson indicated that the task force would select its own chair. Kaufhold asked how members were recruited. Fulton said that there were no ads, only direct contacts with persons who were known to have an interest. He noted that the Council had been interested in achieving a balance among differing interest groups.

Delaune noted that we didn't know the plans for the bank building, and a "master plan" had never been developed to guide the entire area. Locke noted that design standards were developed as part of the planning process. He also noted that a proposed moratorium, for consideration by the Council later that day, would allow consideration of changes in the comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance. Delaune suggested that the area to the north of Palmer Drive be considered by the task force. Pierson suggested that a moratorium would be needed.

Benke noted that rumors had been spreading about the City's plans for the area, and suggested that they be addressed at a Council meeting. He also noted that Kraus-Anderson had other options besides redevelopment, including renting to low-rent tenants.

Updates

Black reviewed recent progress on the acquisition of the Keys restaurant property, and noted that he had received several calls from employees of Signergy, wondering about their future. He also summarized the recent Midwest Asphalt depositions, noting that cooperation has been suggested on both sides. Delaune asked how long it would take to relocate Midwest. Black replied that he didn't know. Harmon suggested that the business was employing delaying tactics.

Black reported briefly on discussions with property owners at Rice Creek

Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 a.m.