09-19-18 JDA Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

the Twin Cities and noted this group was extremely involved in social and economic justice issues. He stated his members care a lot about housing. He encouraged the County and City of Arden Hills to provide more affordable housing and at a lower AMI in order to create a stronger community. Lael Robinson, Housing Justice Center, read comments from an Arden Hills resident at 1212 Karth Lake Drive. She read the residents thoughts in full noting Ms. Asha Elmquist was excited about the Rice Creek Commons Development but had concerns with the site being fully optimized, especially the residential portions. Ms. Elmquist was of the opinion the density was too low and there were not enough housing options. Ms. Elmquist encouraged the JDA to reconsider the housing options within this development to ensure opportunities for all residents to remain in Arden Hills. Ms. Elmquist suggested more affordable housing options be offered and at a 30% AMI. Don Mullen, 3847 East County Line in White Bear Lake, stated he was the Executive Secretary for the St. Paul Building Trades. He explained he represented 15,000 construction workers in the metro area. He discussed how this project would impact the metro area while also increasing the tax base. He encouraged the JDA to move this project forward not only for the construction jobs it will create, but also for the amenities it will offer to the region. Chair Wicklund reported Mr. Mullen submitted a letter to the JDA and noted that for the record. Ben Rave, Dutch Energy, at 1123 LaFond, submitted a letter to the JDA. He described the type of work completed by Dutch Energy, which was a non-profit organization. He understood the importance of this site and encouraged the JDA to consider clean, efficient energy options for the redevelopment site. He stated he supported the goals within the MDA and reported his organization was involved in the Resiliency Task Force. He applauded the JDA, County and City on the progress to date and suggested further density be considered within the development. Sue Walter Phillips, Executive Director of MICAH, described the work being completed by MICAH to create welcoming communities with housing options for all. She explained the MDA and the plans for the redevelopment project does not create affordable housing options. She expressed concern that the broad needs of the community were not being considered and encouraged the JDA to provide housing for young and old. She explained in the 1970’s and 1980’s Minneapolis was one of the most integrated metropolitan areas to becoming one of the most segregated over the past 20 years. She commented on the fair housing complaints that have been filed by MICAH with the City of Minneapolis. She explained MICAH was very interested in working with the JDA to ensure there were housing options for all available within Rice Creek Commons. Tyrone Durell, President of the African American Council, thanked the previous speakers for bringing their concerns to the JDA. He encouraged the JDA to adopt the Minnesota Department of Human Rights Informant and Contracting Bills for this project to ensure