Agenda - Council - 02/14/2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mayor Strommen asked for input from the EDA on the elements they consider to be successful, similar to how the Planning Commission feels that an overall vision would be helpful. Member Steffen noted that the case on the agenda tonight is a tough case and two opposing points will be brought to the Council. He stated that he is unsure that the EDA wants to be in the position of deciding where a business should be located. Commissioner Anderson stated that the key point is that everyone is being respectful of the other party's decision. Member Steffen stated that ultimately what is built is at the cost of the business that comes forward with a quality product and is willing to pay the right price. Councilmember Kuzma asked what would happen if an entity were to come forward with a full price sales offer that does not fit the vision and whether the City would have the ability to refuse. Mayor Strommen replied that as the landowner the City does not have to sell. City Attorney Langel confirmed that there is nothing to stop the City from making the decision to not sell the land should they feel that would not be a good fit. Councilmember Riley stated that statement highlights the different roles everyone plays. He explained that while one body says yes and one body says no, the Council will need to look at the request from their perspective and make the overall decision. Member Skaff referenced the question of whether a master developer should be considered to take the place of the City as the landowner. He stated that ultimately that question will need to be addressed. Mayor Strommen acknowledged the question continues to come up and the Council would like to look at that option and what that would entail. Commissioner VanScoy noted that although a piecemeal development may be of great quality, it may not fit in the area which can cause issues down the line and implications on what could be developed in the future. Councilmember Shryock noted that an overall vision will help to ensure everyone is on the same plan and working towards the same goal. She stated that the original plan for The COR was focused on what the City wants and perhaps it should be more geared towards what the City has and what they can work with to bring more success. Mayor Strommen stated that the other issue is what the City will want not only today, but in five or ten years. She agreed that she tends to shop online and avoids going to actual stores and the City should anticipate those trends to avoid being irrelevant once built. City Council Work Session / January 24, 2017 Page 7 of 9