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Motion carded. Voting Yes: Councilmembers Beyer, Zimmerman, Beahen and Haas Steffen. Voting No: None. Absent: Mayor Gamec. Case/t2: Consideration of Unallocated 1997 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds City Administrator Schroeder explained that on February 11, 1997, the City Council considered allocation of $32,120 in CDBG funds designated as follows: Alexandra House CEAP Opportunity Services Child Care Resources & Referral $2,500.00 $2,500.00 $5,0OO.00 $7,600.00 This left an unallocated balance of $13,520, which the Council directed be forwarded to the Finance Committee for further discussion. He advised staff recommends that the unallocated $13,520 and the $23,769 historic preservation (fi.om 1995 CDBG) allocation be reallocated for planning purposes; $7,000 for a senior housing needs assessment and the remainder for housing and environmental elements to the Comprehensive Plan. City Administrator Schroeder explained one issue is the desire to complete comprehensive planning. In addition, the Lord of Life Church has asked if the City is interested in working with them and Anoka County to facilitate a senior housing project. Anoka County HRA has indicated the need to conduct a study which is estimated to cost $7,000. Staff recommends reallocation of unused dollars towards these planning activities. Councilmember Beyer asked if this proposal is similar to the senior high-rise presented several years ago. City Administrator Schroeder stated proposals were received within the last six years but no further action taken. Councilmember Haas Steffen reported representatives from Anoka County and the Church met to discuss this project but it is not a high-rise. She reported on the Ham Lake senior housing project (apartments) which will open shortly and was funded in such a way that allows them to give priority to Ramsey residents or their parents or close relatives. Councilmember Haas Steffen advised of a possible location for a senior housing project and indicated support to move forward with a needs assessment study to determine if a need exists. City Administrator Schroeder explained how the Ham Lake project was financed through Anoka County to provide lower than market rates. That project makes a 5% payment in lieu of taxes. Councilmember Beyer asked if the needs study is geared to determine location. It was clarified the study will determine if a need exists and what rents could be. Councilmember Haas Steffen noted the option to use some of these funds for study of the Comprehensive Plan. Finance Committee/March 25, 1997 Page 3 of 5