Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 10/12/2017

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Member Riley asked if it would make more sense to hold the parcel for commercial industrial use or suggest that the solar garden go on the Connexus outlot. He stated that he believes that the Connexus outlot would be better used for commercial industrial use and not a solar farm. Member Burandt stated that he has been working on this project for well over one year and provided additional information on the tax credits that would be available. He stated that the membership of Connexus wants the renewable energy to increase as long as that does not increase the cost of membership. He stated that they are looking at doing three sites within Anoka County, which would be the largest renewable energy project in the country. He stated that when Ramsey stated that they did not want Connexus to use their outlot for the project, they began to look for alternative sites and the Anoka County site came forward. He noted that this would be the showcase property with solar plus storage. He provided additional information on the other sites that will be constructed in Saint Francis and Blaine, noting that they are contracting with local government units to lease the land rather than purchasing land. He noted that in order to be eligible for the tax credits, the properties need to be constructed and operational by a deadline. He stated that the Connexus Board has already made the decision not to use the Connexus outlot in Ramsey, and therefore that is no longer an option. Chairperson Steffen asked how long Connexus has owned the outlot. Member Burandt stated that Connexus has owned the outlot since 1997. Chairperson Steffen asked why the land is being held for so long. Member Burandt stated that they use the property for lineman training and would be open to selling the property to the right tenant. He confirmed that Connexus would be open to working with City staff to market the property to the right tenant. Member Hardin asked if there is a corridor outlined for a bridge. Community Development Director Gladhill stated that a bridge is not shown on the Highway 10 plan, but noted that a connection could be made at Armstrong, although there is not an official map showing that connection. He stated that the areas of impact would still affect the same property owners, although the location would be shifted. City Administrator Ulrich stated that he agrees with the Anoka County owned location proposed over the Connexus outlot. He stated that this would take an agricultural property and put it into use and would provide a showcase for conservation as well. He stated that the high-profile pollinator plantings would also be a good fit for the corridor and the community partnership the City has had with Connexus over the years. Chairperson Steffen agreed that the Connexus outlot is a prime commercial property that he would much rather preserve. Member Skaff also agreed that the Connexus outlot would be valuable for commercial use. Economic Development Authority/September 14, 2017 Page 3 of 8