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Commissioner Gamec commented the biggest conversation has always been looking at a <br />possible reroute of Highway 47 down Dysprosium. HRA funds would be one way to help move <br />that project along. <br />HRA Executive Director Frolik noted there would also be an option for affordable senior <br />housing, which is something that is in big demand and does not currently exist in the community. <br />Chairperson Olson commented on the need to build up funds for the opportunities that are <br />available. <br />Motion by Commissioner Gamec, seconded by Commissioner Olson, to adopt Resolution <br />#HRA -07 -08 -003 authorizing the approval of the proposed 2008 HRA levy in the amount of <br />$312,443. <br />Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Olson, Commissioners Gamec, Elvig, and Jeffrey. <br />Voting No: Commissioners Dehen and Look. Absent: Commissioner Strommen. <br />Commissioner Elvig questioned why Commissioners Dehen and Look voted in opposition to the <br />levy but did not express any concerns during the discussion. <br />Commissioner Look stated he is not in favor of this additional levy. This is structured with the <br />concept of affordable housing in light of the redistribution of wealth; taxing some people to pay <br />for other people. The people that will be assisted are not carrying the taxes required for the <br />services needed in their own community. He struggles with that and does not know if he is <br />convinced it is a great program. <br />Commissioner Dehen indicated he believes the HRA should be more concise with what will be <br />done with the money before levying. <br />Commissioner Gamec asked if the commissioners would be more in favor of condemnation if the <br />Dysprosium project were to go through instead of using HRA funds and building up that fund. <br />Commissioner Dehen asked if there is a plan that has been prepared, as this is too vague. His <br />feeling is that if there is a specific plan for the levy he would not be in as much opposition, but <br />he does not agree with trying to build up a fund based on this vague discussion. <br />Commissioner Gamec stated the problem is that the HRA needs to build up a fund before they <br />can do anything with it. The only other way is to go to the maximum levy to get some projects <br />going. The HRA has been trying to build the fund gradually, knowing in five to six years there <br />are some houses that will need to be replaced. It would be much easier to work with HRA funds <br />than going through condemnation. Condemnation is fine when it comes to roads, but what the <br />HRA has looked at over the years it to build the fund so that in five to six years when this <br />becomes available it will not be a huge burden on the taxes at that time. <br />Commissioner Dehen requested clarification that the Board is trying to bank funds in lieu of <br />using the condemnation procedure. <br />Housing and Redevelopment Authority / August 14, 2007 <br />Page 3 of 6 <br />