08-05-2024 JDA Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Development Director’s Report Director Perrault stated he had nothing to report at this time. Commissioner Updates Commissioner Reinhardt stated the County and its staff was working to make it clear the development agreement was the top priority at this time. She explained she was feeling very optimistic. Commissioner Fabel stated he was encouraged by the County’s optimism, especially after hearing about the horizontal infrastructure funding gap. He anticipated the gap would remain, even if the County receives $25 million in State funding. He indicated this was a concern to him. It was his hope the County could find ways to fill the remainder of the gap in order to move this project forward before the end of the year. Acting Chair Frethem stated she attended the National Association of Counties (NACo) Conference in Washington DC with Commissioner Reinhardt. She explained there was a federal session where she spoke to different agencies regarding potential funding streams for this project. She indicated she was also able to secure a meeting with Senior White House Advisor Tom Perez where federal support for Rice Creek Commons was discussed. She stated he was very excited about the project and was invited to visit the site. She indicated she also met with Senate staff for Senator Smith and Senator Klobuchar as well as staff members for Representative McCollum. She commented on how there was a need to identify grant opportunities and all congressional staff were willing and interested in helping in these efforts. She understood there was a funding gap and noted there were different tools that could be used to move this project along. She discussed how the County would continue to pursue funding sources and thanked Ehlers for being a great consultant. Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 6:17 pm. Approved _____________________________________ _______________________ Nicole Frethem, Acting Chair Date