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<br />Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan stated at the April 13, 2006 EDA meeting there <br />was lengthy discussion regarding the future of the south side of US Hwy 10. Staff suggested <br />than an in-house study be done similar to the one by HKGi. The EDA requested staff to see how <br />long it would take to do a study so that business owners could start planning for the future. Staff <br />has researched the timing and resources needed to conduct an in-house study. The consensus <br />was that this study cannot be done in a reasonable amount of time using current staff. Further <br />discussion seemed to point this study towards the Comprehensive Planning process. It is <br />important for the EDA to have input into the future development and redevelopment of the land <br />south of US Hwy 10. The recommendation of staff is that the EDA recommend to City Council <br />to develop a plan that is conducive to improving the image of Hwy 10 through the <br />Comprehensive Planning process. <br /> <br />Member Strommen asked if the EDA would have a role in the planning process for this area of <br />Hwy 10. Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan replied he would like the EDA to be <br />involved, but he does not know what the direction of the Council would be. <br /> <br />Member Strommen expressed her support in the EDA providing input during the draft and <br />review phase of the planning in this area. <br /> <br />Member Elvig expressed concern with this area of Hwy 10 getting caught in the process of a <br />much larger plan and the timing. He suggested if this area is to be involved in the <br />Comprehensive Planning process, that the objectives and vision for this area be laid out. He <br />stated he spoke with Mr. Lano following the last EDA meeting and informed him he believes the <br />attempt is to try to clean up the area so there is more curb appeal. Ms. Lano agreed with that and <br />shared his vision for a display similar to the John Deere dealership outside of Rogers. Member <br />Elvig stated the businesses in this area need to know what the possibilities are for the expansion <br />of their businesses and how to spend their money. The last time the City completed a <br />Comprehensive Plan it took seven years to reach the approval stage; there are some very <br />contentious things this time on the Comprehensive Plan, and he does not doubt it will get stalled. <br />He is terribly concerned about this area being pulled into this larger plan. <br /> <br />Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan noted the correct zoning is needed to control <br />development according to the vision. Member Strommen stated if the vision for this area is laid <br />out it would assist the businesses in their planning. Some areas require additional study. Town <br />Center has its own plan that fits into the Comprehensive Plan; this could be another sub-plan <br />area. Member Elvig suggested the EDA hold a planning session to layout the vision for the <br />area. He stated if the EDA members were to go before the Planning Commission and City <br />Council he would be very willing to initiate changes in zoning or codes to facilitate the vision. <br /> <br />Chairperson Riley inquired about the status of the determination on the highway plan. Member <br />Elvig indicated during a recent Council work session a presentation was given regarding the <br />three alternatives; two of these alternatives do not work well. <br /> <br />Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan indicated he will contact a representative of the <br />highway planning process to provide a presentation for the EDA. <br /> <br />Economic Development AuthoritylMay 18,2006 <br />Page 7 of 10 <br />