Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 05/11/2006

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Planning Staff. StafFs recommendation is that the EDA direct staff to reopen the study on the south side of Highway #10, and to start planning for the future. This study will take a minimum of one year, and may take years to complete. Member Elvig expressed concern with this study getting caught up in issues related to the river crossing exchange due to the length of time that will be involved in discussing those issues. He stated he is sensitive to the businesses in this area and suggested the study be narrowed to this impact zone. Member Schindel noted this is a very large issue, but the process needs to begin, whether or not this Board finishes the project. Motion by Member Elvig, seconded by Member Strommen, to direct staff to initiate a development/redevelopment study on the south side of Highway #10 from Ramsey Boulevard southeast to Anoka. Further discussion: Concern was expressed regarding the term "development/redevelopment study". Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan stated businesses change hands on Highway #10 often. Redevelopment is not a bad word, and it will happen in an orderly fashion. A plan is needed for the vision on the south side of Highway #10. If them are businesses that will not be preferred in this area those businesses need to be aware of that. Member Strommen directed staff to contact the businesses in the area to inform them of this study, and to include that contact as one of the first steps taken. Member Elvig directed staff to contact the residents in the area as well. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Acting Chairperson Steffen, Members Elvig, Strommen, LeToumeau, and Schindel. Voting No: None. Absent: Chairperson Riley. Abstain: Member Kiefer. Further discussion: Mr. Lano stressed his desire to be very involved in this process. He indicated the property owners in this area want to be sure they are not being strong-armed into this. He stated it is not acceptable that the property owners are receiving information second hand and months late. Member Strommen explained this is why she directed staff to notify the individuals in this area as the first step in this process. Member Kiefer stated regarding notification, there should be a discussion by the Council regarding communication between staff and residents, and between staff and businesses. He stated there has been a real breakdown in communication. Member Strommen replied communication is an ongoing discussion by the Council. Member Elvig noted with this process going through the EDA, which is a smaller body, it can be more focused and less global. Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan indicated it may be months before staff contacts the businesses due to the length of time this process will take. There was discussion regarding the timing of the study process. Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan indicated if the desire is to have the study completed quickly an outside source would need to be hired, rather than completing the study in-house due to staff's workl6ad. Acting Chairperson Steffen 'directed staff~o obtain'information fromthe departme'n~s Economic Development Authority/April 13, 2006 Page 7 of 9 ?