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Critical Blight Redevelopment Project By: Scan Sullivan, Economic Development / TIF Specialist James E. Norman, City Administrator Background Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District No. 2 was created to facilitate industrial redevelopment and development within the City of Ramsey. TIF District No. 2 has been a great success thus far creating a great environment for businesses to relocate and grow in Ramsey. Businesses such as Life Fitness, Systematic Refrigeration (now called Zero Zone), and A & R Manufacturing are located within TIF District No. 2, and have benefited from the cities concerted effort to facilitate development in underutilized land. This process of redevelopment takes much time and effort. The area now coming into focus is located along Azurite and Basalt Streets in one of Ramsey's oldest business districts. The other area remaining is located at the intersection of Unity Street and County Road 116. These sites are the crux of the Critical Blight Redevelopment Project and will be the areas that the City will be concentrating on for Redevelopment. Observations The City was recently awarded a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to acquire properties in need of redevelopment. The properties identified were the Chies and Morrell Properties located on 141st Avenue between Azurite and Basalt Streets. There are many properties adjacent and near these two parcels that need to be cleaned up or acquired so that redevelopment is able to take place. Tom Sauter has assisted the City in this process by acquiring 3 Lots north of St Paul Terminal but much more needs to be done. In addition to acquisitions by the City and private investors, it will be necessary to bring sewer, water, storm sewer and paved streets into the area. A feasibility study is currently underway to assess the costs of bringing sewer and water into the area. Three lots that Tom Sauter has prepared for development are requesting that sewer and water be brought to them in order to develop them. That, along with the properties that City is acquiring, does require some future thought to how the surrounding properties will develop. It is obvious that the City needs to play a role in getting the redevelopment procegs going but it is also evident that we need participation by area businesses that are willing to assist the City. The City is becoming aware of development opportunities on an accelerated basis so it is important to have a distinct direction on what the future holds for this area. Recommendation To have the City facilitate acquisitions, or outright purchases of properties identified in the Critical Bight Redevelopment Project Area when it becomes evident that there are willing sellers or opportunities for quality redevelopment. EDA Action None Required.