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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—AUGUST 9, 2010 3 <br /> 2.A Presbyterian Homes Concept Review and Library Discussion <br /> Councilmember Holden asked if Presbyterian Homes had spoken with Ramsey County regarding <br /> the concept plan. <br /> Mr. Mehrkens indicated Presbyterian Homes had not yet reviewed the plans with Ramsey <br /> County. <br /> Councilmember Holmes questioned if the 6,000 square feet was adequate. - <br /> Mr. Mehrkens felt that the space was well designed with additional amenities nearby and would <br /> be adequate. He added that the location at Presbyterian Homes would be more cost effective than <br /> the library relocating to New Brighton. The estimates for construction costs were just under <br /> $900,000, including furniture, fixtures and equipment. <br /> Councilmember Holmes asked if the site would be rented or leased to the Ramsey County <br /> Library system. She understood that New Brighton would be charging the Library $1 per year for <br /> the next 20 years. <br /> Mr. Mehrkens explained the building would be owned by Presbyterian Homes and leased by the <br /> Ramsey County Library on a 20 year lease. He indicated utilities and common area maintenance <br /> (CAM) fees would be passed on to the library, but that Presbyterian Homes would not be charging <br /> market rental rates. <br /> Mayor Harpstead requested further information on TIF funds available to the City for the <br /> project. <br /> Mark Ruff, Ehlers & Associates, indicated the City could not pay for operational expenses for <br /> the Library. The City could assist Presbyterian Homes with TIF by putting certain requirements in <br /> an agreement requiring specific amenities. Another issue, in order to use TIF the existing <br /> buildings would have to meet certain sub-standard requirements. He indicated the agreements <br /> could be negotiated between the City and Presbyterian Homes with conditions for approval <br /> Councilmember Holmes questioned if a Library at Presbyterian Homes would serve Mounds <br /> View as well. <br /> Susan Nemitz, Ramsey County Library Director, stated this site would serve south Arden Hills <br /> and New Brighton. <br /> Mayor Harpstead asked Ms. Nemitz for further comments on the concept plan. <br /> Ms. Nemitz felt the concept plan was a legitimate proposal and would be considered by the <br /> Library Board. The space met the required specifications. The site was further south than <br /> originally envisioned. <br /> Mayor Harpstead questioned if Presbyterian Homes had a preliminary assessed value for the <br /> new facility, once construction was complete. <br />