10/09/12 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Interim Engineer Nelson advised the property acquisition was time sensitive for the construction of the cul -de -sac because the original schedule had already been delayed. He doubted staff could complete paperwork to shift the cul -de -sac and get it constructed as part of this project. Commissioner Strommen stated she appreciates staff comments and had voted for this but, had she known the facts at the beginning, she would not have supported this purchase because the public trust and perception is above those issues. Commissioner Ramsey stated the purchase of this property did not violate any laws and because the HRA has always known perception was an issue, had created a process, ordered extra appraisals, and made sure every process was perfect. The City needs the right -of -way for the road and interchange and approval would also move another business into The COR. Commissioner Ramsey stated if this had not been made a City project, it would have moved forward with a unanimous vote so it is ridiculous to stop the project now. He pointed out this is a conflict for Councilmember /Commissioner Wise, not a conflict for the HRA. Bond Counsel Bray confirmed the Statute indicates it is a conflict on the Commissioner. Motion by Commissioner Ramsey, seconded by Chairperson McGlone, to approve the Purchase Agreement for the property located at 14590 Armstrong Boulevard, Ramsey, Minnesota, and legally described as Lot 2, Block 1, Hauser Addition, Anoka County, Minnesota. Further discussion: Commissioners Strommen and Backous restated their rationale for not supporting the motion. Commissioner Ramsey stated his intention to support the purchase. Commissioner Elvig stated his position has been one of timing all along and while he had supported the project moving forward, has now learned this purchase is not a legal function for the City Council. He stated that while he still agrees with the project, he intends to not support the motion because it will damage public perception and trust in this project. Chairperson McGlone pointed out that a lot is "hanging in the balance," there is talk about risk and liability, and the price of this project could be rising. Motion failed. Voting Yes: Chairperson McGlone and Commissioners Ramsey. Voting No: Commissioner Elvig, Backous, and Strommen Absent: Commissioner Tossey and Wise. 5.02: Approve the Sale of Property — Lot 3, Block 1, COR TWO (Portions of this case may be closed to the public) Development Manager Lazan advised this case was contingent upon prior action. Motion by Commissioner Ramsey, seconded by Commissioner Elvig, to postpone indefinitely consideration of the Purchase Agreement with M & W Holdings, LLC for the sale of Lot 3, Block 1, COR TWO. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson McGlone, Commissioners Ramsey, Elvig, Backous, Strommen Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioners Tossey and Wise. Housing and Redevelopment Authority / October 9, 2012 Page 4 of 6