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Member LeTourneau noted that CBRE was of the opinion that a data center would have a neutral or slightly negative impact based on the style of building. He felt this was a mitigation issue and the City should put in place higher standards in terms of buffering and /or higher setbacks. Assistant to the City Administrator Brama stated that CBRE identified some challenges with the OMC site, i.e., the existing building, oddly shaped lot, and the public input received, which will make the site more challenging in comparison with other cities. Member LeTourneau expressed his appreciation to staff for all the work they have done on this project. He stated that this project first arose out of an opportunity to add to and grow the City's tax base and the bigger question is whether this site is appropriate for a data center as well as what the market will demand in terms of size of the building. Assistant to the City Administrator Brama stated that the real takeaway from the study group was that they do not want a large, standard - looking industrial building and want to see a building with an articulated site layout and residential feel. He stated this was extremely important to surrounding property owners but it also increases the challenges with marketing the property. Member Hardin asked if the change in zoning would allow for higher density instead of 47 single family homes. Development Services Manager Gladhill stated that the zoning would be single family and would not allow medium or high density housing. Member Riley stated that the City was approached about this site as the best spot in Anoka County for a data center and not for higher density housing. He indicated the EDA's role in city government is to push economic development and increase the tax base, jobs, and business and felt that role should frame the EDA's discussion in this matter, adding that it was potentially a different discussion at the City Council level. Chairperson Steffen agreed and felt that from an economic development standpoint, the EDA has shown that it is in favor of a data center development on this site. He felt that a data center could fit on the site but was skeptical about some of the marketability constraints and was in favor of taking the next step to rezone the property with an overlay district and to let the market decide whether a data center developer wants to come forward. Motion by Chairperson Steffen, seconded by Member Williams, to recommend that the City Council direct staff to submit a Comprehensive Plan amendment application to allow for a residential zoning district and a data center overlay zoning district on the OMC site. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Steffen, Members Williams, Brunt, Hardin, LeTourneau, and Riley. Voting No: None. Absent: Member Skaff. Economic Development Authority/May 8, 2014 Page 4 of 6