HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-03-2023 JDA Agenda PacketJoint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
JDA MEETING AGENDA
Monday, April 3, 2023, 5:30 p.m. at Arden Hills City Hall
1.Roll Call
2.Approve Agenda
3.Chair Comments
4.Public Input
5.Consent Agenda
a. Approve February 4, 2019 Minutes
b.Approve February 6, 2023 Minutes
6.New Business
a.Receive Presentation from Ramsey County Parks & Recreation (Building 189
Schedule – Rice Creek Regional Trail Summary Presentation)
b.Receive Presentation from Ramsey County Community & Economic
Development (Economic Competitiveness & Inclusion Plan/Equitable
Development Framework)
c.Authorize Request for Development Interest (RDI) Solicitation for Outlot A
(“Thumb Parcel”)
7.JDA Advisory Committee Update
8.Staff Updates
9.Commissioner Updates
10.Adjournment
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 4
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 3, 2023
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Collins and Perrault
SUBJECT: Public Input
The public is invited to provide input. Comments will be limited to two minutes per person.
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 5a
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 3, 2023
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Collins and Perrault
SUBJECT: February 4, 2019 Meeting Minutes
Negotiations were put on hold before the meeting minutes from February 4, 2019 could be approved.
As negotiations have resumed, the minutes from February 4, 2019 need to be approved.
Attachment:
02-04-19 JDA
Action Requested:
Approve the meeting minutes from February 4, 2019.
Special Joint Development Authority
Monday, February 4, 2019
Arden Hills City Council Chambers
Minutes
5:30 pm
Present:
Joint Development Authority: Chair Brian Holmes, Commissioner Blake Huffman,
Commissioner Brenda Holden, Commissioner Brenda Holden, Commissioner Rafael Ortega
Also present: Dave Perrault, (Arden Hills); Josh Olson, (Ramsey County)
Roll call taken.
Approval of Agenda
Commissioner Huffman requested Item 9E be moved up on the agenda.
Commissioner Grant stated this was a Special Meeting and therefore the agenda could not be
amended.
Jenny Boulton explained the subject matter on the agenda could not be amended, but noted
the order in which the items were discussed could be amended.
Commissioner Huffman withdrew his motion.
Motion by Commissioner Grant seconded by Commissioner Holden to approve the agenda as
presented. Motion carried.
Approval of January 7, 2019 Minutes
Commissioner Holden stated she would not make a motion or second on these minutes. She
explained there was not a quorum at this meeting, so there could not be minutes. She
requested comment from the JDA Attorney.
Jenny Boulton agreed a meeting was not held on January 7th. She advised the JDA to make a
motion to accept the record of the January 7, 2019 meeting.
Motion by Commissioner Grant seconded by Commissioner Holden to accept the record of the
January 7, 2019 meeting. Motion carried.
Election of 2019 Officers
Director Perrault requested confirmation of the Chair and Vice -Chair of the JDA.
Agenda Item 5a
Motion by Commissioner Huffman seconded by Commissioner Holden to confirm the
appointment of Brian Holmes as Chair of the JDA for 2019. Motion carried.
Motion by Commissioner Huffman seconded by Commissioner Holden to confirm the
appointment of Blake Huffman as Vice-Chair of the JDA for 2019. Motion carried.
Public Inquiries/Informational
Fran Holmes requested the JDA Commissioners speak up.
Consent Agenda
None
Old Business
Status of De-Listing TCAAP as Superfund Site
Director Olson stated the County continues to work with Federal and State agencies on the
delisting process. He anticipated the Federal and State delisting process to be complete by the
fall of 2019.
Commissioner Grant requested further information on this process. Carrie Collins explained the
County Manager put this project (TCAAP) on hiatus last fall and reported resources have been
dedicated elsewhere.
Commissioner Grant questioned if the County would wait to grade the site until the property
was delisted. Director Olson commented on a memo drafted last fall which outlined the
processes and tasks required for delisting the TCAAP property. He reported the site could be
graded prior to the property being delisted.
Commissioner Holden asked if the County had heard from the EPA. Director Olson stated he
has not heard from the EPA personally.
Commissioner Grant thanked Ms. Collins for introducing herself to the JDA. He requested the
new County staff members introduce themselves to the JDA. Ms. Collins introduced
Redevelopment Manager Martha Faust to the JDA.
Process of Approving County Invoices Related to the JDA
Director Perrault stated he does not have a formalized process in place for this topic. He
explained in the interest of transparency between the City and the County, all City and County
invoices were to come before the JDA for consideration.
Councilmember Holden commented on a document that had been presented to the JDA by
Director Olson for expenses from 2013 through 2018. These expenses included public financial,
consultant, meeting expenses, legal, economic development, communications, conferences,
training, insurance and contingency. She requested the JDA be provided with invoices for these
expenses. She stated she would like to see the contracts tha t are in place for County JDA
consultants. She believed this would assist in providing a clear foundation for the JDA going
forward.
Commissioner Grant reported certain JDA bylaws, policies and procedures are not being
followed, as was discussed at a JDA meeting last fall.
Commissioner Huffman believed this was a fair point and stated the County has not been
working to address this concern in the past three months.
Commissioner Grant asked if this meeting was a one-time deal for the County and questioned if
they were still committed to this project.
Commissioner Huffman explained the County was committed to this project and was excited to
reengage in conversations with the City to keep this project moving forward.
Commissioner Grant questioned how this group would work to follow its bylaws, policies and
procedures moving forward. Ms. Collins stated the County has had new leadership coming on
and noted Martha would be managing the Rice Creek Commons development project.
Chair Holmes asked what a reasonable timeframe would be to get on process. Ms. Collins
reported she would work with Arden Hills staff in order to address this issue.
Commissioner Grant requested this item be placed on the March meeting agenda in order for
this item to be tracked.
Public Hearing
None
New Business
2019 Meeting Schedule
Director Perrault reviewed the 2019 JDA meeting schedule with the Commission. He explained
a meeting has been set for the first Monday of every month. These meetings will be held at the
Arden Hills City Hall at 5:30 p.m.
Commissioner Ortega stated he would not be able to attend the March 4, 2019 JDA meeting as
he would be in Washington DC.
Motion by Commissioner Huffman seconded by Commissioner Holden to approve the 2019
Meeting Schedule. Motion carried.
League of MN Cities Insurance Trust – Liability Coverage Waiver Form
Director Perrault discussed the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust requirements. He
stated in the past the JDA has chosen to not waive its monetary limits as set forth by Minnesota
State Statute.
Commissioner Holden expressed concern with the fact the JDA was being asked to vote on this
matter without having 2019 budget information. She questioned how the group could
purchase insurance without a budget in place.
Commissioner Ortega asked when the current policy would expire. Director Olson stated the
coverage runs through May.
Commissioner Ortega suggested this item be brought back to the JDA in March.
2019 Budget
Director Olson reviewed the 2019 budget with the Authority. He stated the County has paid for
JDA expenses since the JDA began in 2012. At this time, the County was not budgeting for JDA
expenses in 2019.
Commissioner Grant questioned why the County had not budgeted for TCAAP in 2019 . Ms.
Collins stated the County has taken a hiatus since November 2018. She was hopeful that as
resolution on the project is reached the budget would be restored.
Commissioner Huffman stated as conversations between the County and City continue and an
MDA was reached, the budget would be reconsidered. Ms. Collins reported this was the case.
Chair Holmes questioned how the MDA and the budget were interconnected. Director Olson
explained the TCAAP project budget was County approved and all JDA expenses were paid
through this budget. At this point, the County has not been working on TCAAP since October or
November of 2018. Therefore, those funds have not been going toward the JDA.
Commissioner Holden inquired how the JDA Attorney would be paid. Ms. Collins reported once
the County identifies that it was moving forward towards a project, funds will be restored.
Commissioner Grant asked if the County had to get its way in order to move this project
forward. Ms. Collins explained this matter would make more sense once the JDA received the
Project Status Update. She reported there was no way for this project to move forward without
the City of Arden Hills as a partner working shoulder to shoulder with the County.
Commissioner Huffman commented the County was 100% committed to working with the City
of Arden Hills and Alatus on this project. He stated the County was sincere in getting al l parties
back to the table to move this project forward.
Commissioner Holden expressed concern with Commissioner Huffman’s statement and their
100% commitment to this project. She did not believe Commissioner’s Huffman and Ortega
were showing their commitment to the project by being a no show at the last JDA meeting. She
stated the City has been 100% in wanting to keep this project moving forward.
Commissioner Huffman discussed the letter the County sent to the City last fall requesting a
cool down period. He reported the County has had some time now and would like to begin
talking again.
Status of Hiring a JDA Attorney
Director Perrault stated he did not believe the County had a contract with an attorney at this
time. He explained the contract with the previous Kennedy & Graven Attorney had expired.
Commissioner Grant stated he had never been able to locate a contract with Kennedy & Graven
and stated this was a procedural problem for the JDA. He explained he supported the JDA
having proper legal representation and questioned how the JDA could obtain an attorney.
Director Olson discussed how legal services with Kennedy & Graven have been managed in the
past by the County. Ms. Collins commented further on the services that are provided to the
County and the City by Kennedy & Graven.
Commissioner Grant questioned why the JDA had not put out a proposal for legal services
instead of the County. Ms. Collins reported these were agreed upon services by the County and
the City. She noted the majority of the revenues for the JDA were being provided by the
County.
Commissioner Grant commented within the bylaws the JDA was to have separate accounts
from the County. He questioned where these accounts were, with what bank, etc. Ms. Collins
stated this got back to the policies and procedures that were addressed previously in the
meeting.
Commissioner Grant stated he supported the JDA putting out a public RFP for an attorney.
Commissioner Huffman suggested staff complete an audit on the bylaws and that this item be
addressed at a future meeting after this audit has been completed.
Commissioner Grant requested this item be brought back to the JDA in March.
Project Status Update
Commissioner Huffman read a prepared statement to the JDA. He explained on January 22 nd
the County Board met in a closed session to discuss future negotiations for the sale of Rice
Creek Commons to Alatus. He reported the County has been working to negotiate a Master
Development Agreement but has reached an impasse. He indicated Rice Creek Commons was a
shovel-ready, prime development opportunity that will benefit the community with jobs,
housing and economic growth. He anticipated that all parties want to move forward toward a
development solution but stated the County was losing momentum and development
opportunities as negotiations have not led to an MDA that was appropriate for all parties. As
the property owner, the County had a responsibility to its tax payers to develop this site. He
feared a construction season would be lost given the fact infrastructure plans were not in place.
He explained funding sources and financial tools are set to expire in 2019. He commented the
County would lose State approved funding for the spine road. He reported the County has
invested $40 million in the site, Alatus has invested millions in development plans and now the
project is stalled. Per Section 2.3.11 of the Joint Powers Agreement, the County would like to
resolve outstanding issues through a dispute resolution via mediation to move the project
forward. He stated appropriate housing, job and economic growth were very important to the
community. He explained the County wanted to ensure this project was done right. He
commented successful mediation may be the best option to move this project forward. He
stated he was not looking for JDA approval regarding mediation, but rather the County and the
City would have to approve this.
Commissioner Grant requested further information regarding the S tate approved funding for
the spine road. Ms. Collins reported the County had several million dollars allocated from the
State to assist with completing the spine road in 2019.
Commissioner Grant questioned who paid for the thumb roadway. Director Olson commented
this was paid for by Ramsey County. He noted there may have been some expenses that were
eligible for State funding.
Commissioner Holden stated she took offense to the statement, “the County has been
negotiating in good faith”. She reported the City has been negotiating with the County since
2012 on this project. She explained she had attended heated meetings where County staff was
yelling at Councilmembers. She commented on all of the concessions the City had made in
order to meet the County’s wishes. She stated the City has been negotiating on phasing,
density, building heights and flexibility issues with TCAAP since 2012. She indicated the City has
been working with the County, shoulder to shoulder to give them what they want. She stated
bullet three was a problem for her.
Commissioner Huffman stated by “we” the County meant all parties involved. He commented
there has been no resolution to the MDA after years of negotiations which led the County to
suggest mediation be considered.
Commissioner Holden explained she was frustrated by the fact the County had chosen not to
include the City in all of their negotiations with Alatus. She reported the City was only included
in the negotiations process since last April.
Commissioner Grant questioned if the agreed to sale price was $62.7 million for the TCAAP site.
Commissioner Huffman deferred this question to staff.
Amy Schmidt, County Attorney’s Office, commented on the closed session the County held.
She explained the price Louis Jamborn cited within the MDA and the agreement had not been
executed. She reported the County Attorney needed to meet with the Board of Commissioners
to discuss this in order to finalize the sale of the property.
Commissioner Holden expressed frustration that the County supported the City’s plan, voted to
approve the plan, and now was not going forward with the City plan. She questioned what the
issues were at this time.
Commissioner Huffman stated both City and County staff had been meeting on a week ly basis
through the hiatus to address these issues.
Ms. Collins indicated affordable housing and density were the main concerns, along with
financing for the project.
Commissioner Grant commented SAC credits had been resolved. Further discussion ensued
regarding planning costs and negotiations with the County.
Commissioner Holden stated the City never received information from the County on the last
negotiations.
Director Perrault reported the City Council met in October to provide direction regarding the
status of the Cooperative Agreement between the City and the County. This information was
provided to the County and shortly after that time, the City received a letter from the County
stating TCAAP had been put on hold.
Commissioner Grant questioned if it was the developer who was reimbursing the planning
costs.
Director Perrault reported this was the case.
Commissioner Grant asked why the County would stand in the way of the developer
reimbursing these costs.
Commissioner Huffman stated this would lead to a broader conversation that would not be
held this evening. He commented at this time, the County would like to get back to the table
with the City and understood there may need to be some clarification from both parties may be
needed as to what the issues were.
Commissioner Grant discussed the history of the density concerns for this project noting how
the City and County have been going back and forth on this matter for quite some time. He
questioned why the County was proposing to change these numbers at the 11 th hour. He
reported the City has been marching with the County for some time, arm and arm with the
County. He commented on how the economy has changed over the years and how further
delays would impact the development.
Chair Holmes questioned what the process was going forward.
Commissioner Huffman stated the mediation process going forward would be between the City
and the County.
Commissioner Holden commented if the plan changes in any way, the City would be required to
complete a Comprehensive Plan Amendment. She reported this would take six to twelve
months to complete.
Commissioner Grant encouraged the County Commissioners to think back on how the City has
worked to amend the plan in place to meet the County’s needs. He stated he would hate to
have to unpack this issue again. He suggested all parties involved get together and see where
they are at. He commented the County has had conversations during the hiatus, as well as the
City. He questioned if the best action moving forward after the hiatus was to jump into
mediation.
Commissioner Holden asked when the AUAR expired for this property.
Commissioner Grant stated the AUAR expired in June of 2019. He stated this alone would be a
good reason to keep this project moving forward.
Commissioner Huffman summarized the comments that had been made thus far stating the
group would like the project to move forward and that there was a need to better understand
what the issues were at this time. He reported the County would recommend this be
completed through mediation.
Chair Holmes supported this recommendation.
Commissioner Holden encouraged the County to consider a list of pros and cons for delaying
this project, along with the financial implications.
Commissioner Huffman stated this was a good recommendation.
Chair Holmes suggested the JDA hold one or two worksession meetings prior to the March JDA
meeting.
Commissioner Holden commented she would like to see City and County staff meet to discuss
the outstanding issues prior to additional JDA meetings being held.
Ms. Collins suggested the mediation process commence and that discussions between the City
and the County continue in the meantime.
Commissioner Holden feared that there would be less incentive for the County to come to an
agreement with the City if mediation was right around the corner.
Commissioner Huffman did not agree with this comment.
Commissioner Grant encouraged the County to respond to the City’s previous negotiation
efforts from last October.
Director Perrault summarized the discussion held by the JDA stating staff has been directed to
compile a list of outstanding issues, and City and County staff are to meet together to discuss
these issues.
Chair Holmes stated he would prefer the JDA to review these issues in order to bring about
collective understanding prior to discussing mediation.
Commissioner Ortega supported a list of issues being drafted. He stated the intent of the
County Board was to move forward with mediation and explained he was prepared to move in
this direction in order to address the outstanding issues.
Commissioner Grant commented the mediation would be between the City and the County. He
questioned if the County was coming forward with mediation because they have finished their
negotiations with the developer.
Ms. Collins stated per the hand out, the County was proposing to move forward with mediation
to help the two parties get unstuck.
Commissioner Holden asked if the MDA with Alatus was complete. She questioned if the
redlines had been agreed to.
Ms. Collins reported the goal of mediation was to get the City and County closer to an MDA
with the developer.
Commissioner Huffman deferred this question to the developer.
Bob Lux, Alatus, commented the agreement between the County and Alatus stopped during the
hiatus. He explained there were minor items that needed to be addressed but noted the major
points had been established between the two parties.
Commissioner Grant stated he would like the JDA to meet again in two weeks to discuss where
the group was at to address the sticking points.
Chair Holmes explained this would be his preference.
Director Perrault suggested the JDA meet next on Wednesday, February 20th at 5:30 p.m.
Communications
None
Development Director’s Report
Director Perrault stated he had nothing additional to report.
Administrative Director’s Report
Director Olson stated he had nothing additional to report.
Commissioner Updates
Commissioner Grant introduced newly hired City Planner Mike Mrsola to the JDA.
Future Meeting Schedule
The next meeting will be Wednesday, February 20, 2019, at Arden Hills City Hall.
Meeting adjourned at 7:10 pm.
Approved _____________________________________ _______________________
Brian Holmes, Chair Date
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 5b
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 3, 2023
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Collins and Perrault
SUBJECT: February 6, 2023 Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes from February 6, 2023 need to be approved.
Attachment:
2.6.23 Minutes JDA
Action Requested:
Approve the meeting minutes from February 6, 2023.
Joint Development Authority
Monday, February 6, 2023
Arden Hills City Council Chambers
Minutes
5:30 pm
Present:
Joint Development Authority Commissioners: Chair Victoria Reinhardt (Ramsey County), Vice
Chair Nicole Frethem (Ramsey County), Tom Fabel (Arden Hills), Tena Monson (Arden Hills)
Also present: Kari Collins (Ramsey County), Martha Faust (Ramsey County), Dave Perrault
(Arden Hills)
Roll call
Appoint Vice Chair
Motion by Commissioner Fabel seconded by Commissioner Monson to appoint Commissioner
Frethem as Vice Chair. In the absence of the Chair Commissioner Frethem will run the meeting.
Motion carried.
Approve Agenda
Motion by Commissioner Reinhardt seconded by Commissioner Monson to approve the agenda
as presented. Motion carried.
Commissioner Introductions
Commissioner Frethem stated that we are so glad to be here today to talk about Rice Street
Commons.
Commissioner Frethem thanked Commissioners Reinhardt and Fabel for requesting this special
meeting.
Commissioner Frethem thanked all those that have put a lot of time into the project previously.
Commissioner Frethem stated that we are here to advance common goals as a community
where all are valued and thrive.
Commissioner Monson stated that we are excited to advance the common goal of getting Rice
Creek Commons completed. She acknowledged the significant time, energy and talent invested
previously in the project.
Commissioner Monson gave an overview of her background: She has been a renewable energy
developer for the last ten years; she has a Master’s in environmental management, energy and
the environment from Duke University. Her hope for Rice Creek Commons is that it can be
sustainable in energy. She hopes that Rice Creek Commons will fulfill the modern-day energy
needs we have today with modern-day energy technologies, and hopefully serve as a solution
Agenda Item 5b
to climate change. We don’t want to have to come back in 20 years to retrofit things that don’t
meet current standards. In terms of broader sustainability, Commissioner Monson also
mentioned integrating walking, biking, green space and all the things that people today want in
livable communities.
Commissioner Reinhardt stated that she has been on the Ramsey County board since her
election in 1996. Her background is in the environmental field. She has worked in the state
office of Environmental Assistance and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. She has a
Master’s in business administration and a doctorate in Public Administration. She has spoken
internationally on the idea of a circular economy and green energy. Commissioner Reinhardt
has worked extensively with garbage management, working on issues like recycling and green
energy. We can be a leader in climate resiliency. We can do great things from an
environmental perspective with 427 acres at Rice Creek Commons, which is bigger than the
footprint of downtown St. Paul.
Arden Hills Council member Tom Fabel has been a resident of Arden Hills for 38 years. He was
an attorney for 45 years, serving in private law practice (20 yrs. with the Minneapolis law firm
of Lindquist and Vennum), and in public law (Deputy Attorney General, Complex Crime
Prosecutor in Hennepin County, Deputy Mayor, and a judge on two Indian reservations). He is
also involved with community theatre, some of which dealt with racial discrimination in
housing.
Commissioner Frethem represents northern Ramsey County suburbs including Arden Hills in
her Ramsey County Commissioner role. Commissioner Frethem has a law degree, and a
master’s in early childhood education.
Consent Agenda
a. Approve 2023 JDA Schedule
b. Approve LMCIT Waiver
Commissioner Fabel motioned and Commissioner Reinhardt seconded to accept both consent agenda
items. Motion carried.
New Business
a. Joint Development Authority Values Setting
Would guide future decision making on the project. Having a shared vision and goals for what we want
to explore. We feel an urgency to move forward, but we want to make sure we are thorough and
transparent. Our plan should reflect our community needs and values.
Motion by Commissioner Reinhardt seconded by Commissioner Fabel to adopt the vision statement
Commissioner Reinhardt read the statement:
The Joint Development Authority’s (JDA) vision for the Rice Creek Commons site is to create economic
prosperity, build an inclusive economy, have a long-term sustainable development, and develop an
energy forward community by providing much-needed housing at a variety of income levels – including
affordable housing – and creating well-paying jobs.
Commissioner Frethem sought approval. All Commissioners approved.
b. Creation of Advisory Committee
Two Advisory Committee Commissioners will make reports to the JDA Board. Per the JDA By-Laws, an
advisory committee can meet more frequently.
Motioned by Commissioner Fabel and seconded by Commissioner Reinhardt to create the Advisory
Committee. Motion carried.
Commissioner Reinhardt stated that we really need this Advisory Committee. This 427-acre
development is significant. The Advisory Committee process will provide as much transparency as
possible, and fewer surprises. This Advisory committee will allow for more input before things are
discussed at the JDA.
Commissioner Reinhardt offered the amendment to create the Advisory Committee.
Advisory committee members will be Commissioner Frethem and Commissioner Fabel. Commissioner
Fabel noted that in the event that discussions surrounding energy take place, Commissioner Monson will
be asked to advise.
Commissioner Monson stated that she strongly supports this thoughtful approach. Data will be
compiled and brought to the public and there will be no surprises. She supports this approach to bring
things to the public that are better well rounded. Additional meetings can be added. Thorough packets
will be helpful.
Commissioner Frethem stated that this Advisory Committee will allow us to look at the current market.
Many things have changed in recent years. Climate change has changed. The Inflation Reduction Act
exists now. Consulting experts will be helpful. The County’s Economic Inclusion Plan will guide
discussions. This Advisory Committee will prepare things for the JDA to review. JDA meetings are for
the public.
All Commissioners in attendance voted and the amendment to create the Advisory Committee was
approved.
c. Other General Updates on TCAAP/RCC
Arden Hills City Manager Dave Perrault provided an update on the JDA Chair selection process currently
under way in the City of Arden Hills. Applications will be accepted for the Chair position until February
24th. Interviews will follow and the candidate will be selected in March or early April.
Staff Updates
Kari Collins thanked all staff that helped get us to this point. A lot of expertise and time invested has
gotten us to this point. We will be moving forward together collaboratively.
Commissioner Updates
Commissioner Reinhardt stated that this organizational meeting today gives us a foundation to move
forward. This process is transparent and in line with our values.
Commissioner Frethem thanked community members that have participated in engagement activities in
the last two years related to this project. Her hope for the JDA and this phase of the process is that we
can all collectively commit to being “unconditionally constructive”, as JDA members, and as members of
the public. Our partnership will create resilient, inclusive communities.
2023 Meeting Schedule
Location: Arden Hills City Hall Council Chambers
Time: 5:30PM
Monday, April 3, 2023
Monday, June 5, 2023
Monday, August 7, 2023
Monday, October 2, 2023
Monday, December 4, 2023
Adjournment
Approved _____________________________________ _______________________
, Chair Date
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 6a
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 3, 2023
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Collins and Perrault
SUBJECT: Building 189 Schedule – Rice Creek Regional Trail Summary Presentation
Scott Yonke, Ramsey County’s Director of Operations – Planning and Development – Parks and
Recreation Department will present information on the Building 189 schedule and Rice Creek Regional
Trail summary.
Attachment:
Rice Creek Regional Trail Overview – JDA meeting.
Action Requested:
Review presentation.
Rice Creek North Regional Trail Corridor -
Overview
April 3, 2023
Agenda Item 6a
Rice Creek North Regional Trail Corridor
2
Corridor Summary.
•Overall Ramsey County Section.
–County Road J to Long Lake Regional Park.
–4.75 miles.
•Central Segment
–County Road I to County Road H (I-35W).
–Future trail extension to Highway 96.
Long-term Improvements.
•Bituminous trail.
•Off-road cycling and hiking trails.
•Cross-country ski and hiking trails.
•Outdoor Recreation Area.
–Combine with future multi-season trailhead.
•Rice Creek Water Trail access
improvements.
–Pedestrian access.
–Canoes and kayak.
•Natural resource & habitat restoration.
Rice Creek North Regional Trail Corridor
3
Rice Creek North Regional Trail Corridor
4
Future Improvements –
Central Segment.
•Extension of access road
in Parcel C (TBD).
•Trailhead development
(TBD).
•Trail improvements (TBD).
•Parcel D trail development
(TBD).
–Tied to Rice Creek
Commons Development.
•Natural resource
improvements (TBD.)
Completed/Initiated Improvements – Central
Segment
•Parcel C –Road and Site Access Improvements.
•Parcel A and B –Fencing Improvements.
•Building 189 Demolition.
–April 2023 –July 2023.
Questions & Answers
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 6b
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 3, 2023
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Director Collins
SUBJECT: Equity Framework Presentation
In 2019, Ramsey County led the development of a comprehensive economic development strategy
centered around equitable growth and the intent to strengthen economic competitiveness in the region.
This process was led by the county with the help of local and national consultants that supported the
development of in-depth analyses of the county’s economy, including:
• A market and industry cluster analysis.
• A property-based fiscal analysis.
• A countywide housing assessment.
The data was startling and demonstrated county-wide deficits in housing infrastructure (particularly
deeply affordable housing units), missing or weakened pathways to intergenerational wealth through
avenues such as homeownership, and limited accessibility to start and grow a business/access to livable
wage jobs. The research and engagement led by the team coalesced around the following eight
strategies:
1. Preserve and increase the supply of rental housing units for lowest-income residents.
2. Expand affordable home ownership opportunities and improve housing stability for
communities that have experienced historic wealth extraction.
3. Foster inclusive economic development within county transit and key commercial corridors.
4. Support communities in equitable site development.
5. Sustain and accelerate workforce recovery programs.
6. Develop pathways to entrepreneurship and Black, Latinx, Asian, and Indigenous business
ownership.
7. Attract and grow high-wage industry and innovation: technology, advanced manufacturing, and
life sciences.
8. Strengthen business retention and expansion infrastructure to support communities.
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
These strategies have become the roadmap that is now referred to as the Economic Competitiveness &
Inclusion (ECI) Plan. The ECI Plan was adopted on March 23, 2021, after 18 months of engagement with
residents, businesses, community leaders, a steering committee, and the Ramsey County Board of
Commissioners. The plan now acts as a guide directing community objectives, staffing and budgets for
the next five years.
The county has also been tracking its investment into these eight strategic areas through an ECI Tracker
which can be found on the Plan’s website.
www.ramseycounty.us/economicinclusion
Lastly, and per the recommendations of the ECI Plan, the County in 2021 worked with the Alliance for
Metropolitan Stability on developing an Equitable Development Framework. This Framework is attached
to this packet and has become the tool in which County staff vet proposals requesting county funding,
as well as proposals seeking the acquisition of county land.
Core tenets of the Equitable Development Framework include:
1. Cultivating economic prosperity and invest in neighborhoods with social vulnerability through
proactive leadership and inclusive initiatives that engage all communities in decisions about our
future.
2. Enhancing access to opportunity and mobility for all residents and businesses through
connections to education, employment, and economic development throughout our region.
3. Fostering strong communities and people by recognizing and building on racially and ethnically
diverse communities’ existing capacity for self-determination, and anticipating and preventing
displacement of vulnerable residents, businesses, and community organizations.
4. Increasing opportunities for low-income households of color to live in all neighborhoods, with
access to home ownership and rental opportunities.
5. Fostering places that are healthy, vibrant and resilient.
ECI Accolades:
Since Plan adoption, County staff have presented the plan to numerous bodies locally and nationally.
The plan was awarded an Excellence in Equity Award by the International Economic Development
Council (IEDC) on October 5, 2021, and a Local Leaders in Government Award by the St. Paul Area
Chamber that year as well.
Attachments:
JDAPres_0329
RC Equitable Framework
Action Requested:
Review presentation.
Economic Competitiveness and Inclusion Plan
Community & Economic Development
April 3, 2023
Agenda Item 6b
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Three Local Artists
Leeya Jackson
Mayumi Park
Khou Vue
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Thank You and Questions
Ramsey County
Equitable Development
Framework
Community & Economic Development
Agenda Item 6b
I. Background + Purpose
The intent of the Equitable Development Framework is to center racial equity in
County land use development and economic development decisions. This means
significantly reducing racial disparities, recognizing and working with community towards
reconciliation for harm caused by historical racism and current conditions, and partnering
with impacted neighborhoods and populations to create vibrant communities (with
housing that is affordable to all, quality education, living wage jobs, etc.).
Ramsey County Vision
A vibrant community where all are valued and thrive.
Ramsey County Goals & Priorities
Ramsey County seeks to advance racial equity and eliminate ethnic-based disparities
where all residents can experience fair outcomes including the highest level of health,
wellbeing and opportunities for advancement and growth. Other key strategic goals
include:
i. Cultivating economic prosperity and invest in neighborhoods with social vulnerability
through proactive leadership and inclusive initiatives that engage all communities in
decisions about our future.
ii. Enhancing access to opportunity and mobility for all residents and businesses through
connections to education, employment and economic development throughout our
region.
iii. Fostering strong communities and people by recognizing and building on racially
and ethnically diverse communities’ existing capacity for self- determination, and
anticipating and preventing displacement of vulnerable residents, businesses, and
community organizations.
iv. Increasing opportunities for low-income households of color to live in all
neighborhoods, with access to home ownership and rental opportunities.
v. Fostering places that are healthy, vibrant, and resilient.
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II. About the Framework
The Equitable Development Framework provides criteria to guide internal evaluation
of property acquisition, disposal and development decisions, and to advance County
goals related to transportation, housing, and community and economic development.
This framework uses the term “project”
throughout, but the framework may also
be used to evaluate plans or other related
decisions.
The goal of equitable development is to
meet the needs of underserved communities
by reducing disparities while fostering places
that are healthy and vibrant.
Equitable Development Drivers
Advance economic opportunity. Promote local economic development and
entrepreneurial opportunities, enhance community-serving establishments, and
increase quality living wage jobs for people in all neighborhoods.
Prevent displacement. Develop policies and programs that allow anyone who
wants to live in the community to do so, especially current residents, and discourage
displacement of viable small businesses that serve community needs.
Preserve and expand affordable housing options. Create healthy, safe, and
affordable housing, including pathways to home ownership, for all family sizes and
incomes in all neighborhoods.
Understand and respond to local context. Respect local community character,
cultural diversity, and values. Preserve and strengthen intact neighborhoods, building
upon their local assets and resources.
Promote broader mobility and connectivity. Prioritize an effective and affordable
public transportation network that supports transit-dependent communities and
provides equitable access to core services and amenities, including employment,
education, and health and social services.
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Equitable Development Drivers continued
Practice meaningful community engagement. Require local community participation
and leadership in decision-making to reflect a diversity of voices, including targeted
strategies to engage racial populations that are most disproportionately harmed by
disinvestment. Build cultural competence and responsiveness among all stakeholders,
and structure planning processes to be clear, accessible, and engaging.
Develop healthy and safe communities. Create built environments that enhance
community health through public amenities (schools, parks, open spaces, complete
streets, health care, and other services), access to affordable healthy food, improved
air quality, and safe and inviting environments.
Promote environmental justice. Eliminate disproportionate environmental burdens
and ensure an equitable share of environmental benefits for existing communities.
Secure resources to mitigate and reverse the effects of environmental hazards past
and present.
Achieve full accessibility. Ensure that results from investments in the built
environment is accessible and welcoming to people regardless of age, race or
ethnicity, physical condition, or language.
These drivers are not designed to be
deployed independently; their inter-
relationship is fundamental to undoing
the structural racism perpetuating
current disparities. If implemented
piecemeal or in isolation, they will
result in transactional wins that do not
produce lasting change. The Equitable
Development Framework presents an
integrated fabric of strategies to close
racial inequities. Used together, these
drivers have the potential to transform
systems and shift from the current
trajectory of growth that marginalizes
many populations and compromises the
diversity that makes communities strong.
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III.Equitable Development Principles
and Guiding Questions
Equitable Community Engagement & Alignment ensures that vulnerable
populations within Ramsey County, especially low-wealth residents, Black, American
Indian, Latino, and Asian, neighborhood groups, community organizations, people living
with disabilities, immigrants, and small businesses are centered in the project. These
guiding questions can inform internal evaluation decisions. A scale of High-Medium-Low
can be used in evaluating the responses to each question.
How does the project address an issue already identified by the county or the
affected community (i.e., racial inequities in homelessness or homeownership)?
How were affected community members involved in the development of the project?
How are engagement practices tailored to the affected community? For example,
how are Black and American Indian (or racially and ethnically diverse) residents,
immigrants, low-income residents, renters, youth/young adults, residents with
disabilities, multilingual communities, and others represented in the engagement
process?
How does the project reflect the priorities of Ramsey County’s
Economic Inclusion Plan?
Do contractors display a commitment to diverse hiring, etc.?
What is the quality of communication with the affected community? How is
communication shared through multiple platforms (i.e., include mail, social media
and e-mail, community newsletters, community-based organizations, and community
meetings or events)?
What are the advantages or disadvantages of creating a community governance
group for this project?
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Equitable Land Use and Design ensures that the vision and implementation of a
plan or a project prioritizes promoting people’s health, well-being and prosperity; prevents
displacement of the current residents; and benefits all residents.
How does the project assess and document beneficial and harmful impacts on
environmental health and economic prosperity in partnership with the community?
How does the project connect to the existing neighborhood? Do publicly accessible
amenities including green space, biking/walking trails, community gardens, shade and
trees connect to the existing neighborhood?
How does the project mitigate any existing water, air and soil contamination on site?
What resilient features are incorporated, including energy reduction features,
stormwater management techniques, biking/pedestrian amenities, etc.?
If the project is located along major transit corridors, how does it increase density and/
or reduce minimum parking requirements?
If the project results in significant changes in land use, how does it include provisions
for community ownership of land?
How does currently zoned industrial and commercial lands promote an increase in
living wage and/or entrepreneurial opportunities for all residents?
Equitable Housing ensures that all current and future households across the county
have access to affordable housing choices.
How does the project improve housing stability for communities with a record of
historic wealth extraction?
What is the provision of affordable housing? Does the project ensure that at least 20%
of units are available at 30-50% of AMI?
Are housing choice vouchers are accepted in rental buildings?
How are affordable home ownership opportunities provided, when applicable?
How is new housing developed with energy efficiency features to help cut down on
utility bills for its lowest income residents?
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Equitable Transportation assures that development integrates transit and bike/
pedestrian friendly land use practices to enhance healthy living within low-income
communities and communities of color.
How does infrastructure provide access to pedestrian, bicycle and transit systems?
How does the project include traffic calming, where applicable, and pedestrian safety
features?
How do wayfinding installations, when applicable, use best practices for inclusivity
and accessibility?
How does the project maintain and improve public transportation services?
Is the proposed development within 1/2 mile of
Metro Transit’s high-frequency transit system? If
so, how does it respond (i.e. avoiding over provision
of parking, increasing density)?
How does parking accommodate bicycle use and
storage, and address access or
passage to pedestrians and people with disabilities?
How does the project encourage people to walk,
bike, and/or use public transit?
Equitable Economic Development assures that policies and programs associated
with a plan or development prioritize equitable, sustainable wealth creation and high-quality
job opportunities that prevent displacement of residents and small businesses from low-
income communities and communities of color.
How do lease agreements prioritize business opportunities results in local investment?
How does the project use existing workforce programs to connect residents to
construction jobs and long-term employment within the project?
How do a substantial number of jobs created pay living wage and hire local residents
(especially those with barriers to employment)?
How is employee growth, training and mentorship is promoted?
How does the project invest in neighborhoods with concentrated financial poverty?
How do residential buildings incorporate ADA and/or transit accessible features?
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Other Factors to Consider (Feasibility, Fiscal Impact, etc.)
Costs & Risks»Price (Acquisition or Sales)»Appraised Value»Other Potential Costs (Relocation, Remediation, Demolition)»Total Costs (Transaction Cost, Consultants, Due Diligence)
Project alignment with local Comprehensive Plan and current Zoning
Project benefits»Total Costs (Transaction Cost, Consultants, Due Diligence)»Resale Potential of Land for Development»Change in Market Value and Tax Base»Grant Eligibility
Gap Analysis (Subsidy Requirement, etc.)
Project Timeline
Equitable Development Review Elements
Project/Plan Name
Location of Project/Plan
Public Investment
Developer Contact Info
Developer Financial Subsidy Request (if applicable)
Public Partner(s) Contact Info
Other Stakeholders
Description of the Project/Plan
Community Profile (Key Comments)
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Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 6c
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 3, 2023
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Collins and Perrault
SUBJECT: Draft For Solicitation of Thumb Parcel
Summary
A request for Development Interest Solicitation is attached to this packet for Joint Development
Authority review and authorization. The Solicitation is exclusively for Outlot A within the Rice Creek
Commons project boundaries. Outlot A is available to be sold to interested buyers without additional
infrastructure investment. The land sale proceeds are anticipated to be invested by the County into the
larger vision for Rice Creek Commons.
Ramsey County is working with the developer, Alatus, on an agreement that provides exclusive
development and brokerage rights for the remainder of the site. The development team represented by
Alatus, LLC may participate in this solicitation as well by providing industry outreach or as negotiated
with Ramsey County.
Key Considerations:
• The solicitation is designed to attract development seeking shovel-ready land.
• The intent for this solicitation is minimize expense incurred to maximize land sale proceeds
through future transaction(s).
Process & Timeline
The Advisory Committee, or a Selection Committee identified by the JDA, will review all proposals, and
recommend finalists for JDA consideration.
The County Board will enter into a Purchase and Development Agreement with the selected proposer.
That Agreement will address the financial and other terms of the transaction.
A tentative solicitation timeline is identified in the Request for Development Interest Solicitation
attached to this report.
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Attachment:
Draft Request for Development Interest Solicitation
Action Requested:
Authorize the issuance of a solicitation for Development Interest and endorse the solicitation review
process.
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Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant Outlot A (“TCAAP Outlot A”)
Request for Development Interest (RDI)
Submission Schedule and Contact
Estimated RDI Schedule
Request for Development Interest Issued May 3, 2023
Last date for submitting written questions May 31, 2023
Answers to questions posted on DemandStar June 12, 2023
Response deadline July 28, 2023
Review and assessment of responses August 28, 2023
Proposal recommendation and selection Fall, 2023
Negotiation of terms of purchase End of 2023-early 2024
Ramsey County reserves the right to amend or withdraw this RDI at any time, to waive minor
irregularities in the RDI process, and to reject any or all RDI responses.
Questions regarding this RDI should be directed to:
Kari Collins, Director
Ramsey County Community & Economic Development
15 West Kellogg Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102
Kari.Collins@ramseycounty.us
Agenda Item 6c
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Submission of Responses (electronic submittals only; maximum 25 pages). Submit as an email
with header “Proposal for TCAAP Outlot A”. Complete proposals must be received by 4:00 p.m.,
July 28, 2023. Changes or clarifications to this RDI and answers to any questions will be posted on
DemandStar. Proposals received after the deadline will not be accepted. Send proposals to:
Kari Collins Director
Ramsey County Community & Economic
Development
Kari.Collins@ramseycounty.us
Overview
The Ramsey County (County) and City of Arden Hills (City) Rice Creek Commons Joint Development
Authority (JDA) is offering a singular development opportunity in Arden Hills: a distinctive,
commercially-zoned, 40-acre parcel located along I-35W with direct access from County Road H.
The County seeks proposals from responders with the ability, experience and financial resources to
purchase and develop this property, in alignment with the current zoning and comprehensive plan
designation for the property, as well as with principles of Ramsey County’s Equitable Development
Framework. For purposes of this request, “responder” includes any end-user buyer, business,
developer or development team.
Site Area History
The former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant property (TCAAP) once comprised over 2300 acres
of land in the City of Arden Hills and was used by the federal government for the manufacture of
small arms ammunition during World War II. The TCAAP Site ceased operations in 1976 and was
largely decommissioned in the 1980’s.
In 2013, Ramsey County purchased 427 acres of TCAAP property from the federal government,
including TCAAP Outlot A, and renamed the area Rice Creek Commons (“TCAAP/Rice Creek
Commons”). The Arden Hills Army Training Site (AHATS) now uses 1500 acres of the TCAAP
property. The remaining 300 acres are used by MnDOT, Ramsey County/Arden Hills Public Works
Facility, Arden Hills City Hall and Rice Creek North Regional Trail.
Site Description
Ramsey County TCAAP Outlot A (“Site”) is a 40-acre property located in the northwest corner of
Arden Hills, with frontage along I-35W and direct highway access from County Road H. TCAAP
Outlot A is a portion of the 427-acre TCAAP/Rice Creek Commons redevelopment area.
West of Site: I-35W. Beyond is the City of Mounds View residential and commercial/industrial uses.
North of Site: State of Minnesota Department of Motor Vehicles facility in the City of Arden Hills.
East of Site: Rice Creek North Trail Corridor. 112 acres, owned by Ramsey County.
South of Site: County Road H and Rice Creek. Beyond is TCAAP land zoned for mixed use retail.
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Site Description
Total Area 40.10 acres
Existing
Buildings
None – Vacant Property
Master Plan TRC
Zoning
Campus Commercial (CC) Zoning District
Per TCAAP Regulating Code (TRC):
The Campus Commercial Zoning District facilitates a building format that
allows multiple, single tenant buildings or campuses within the northern
"Thumb" site of the Plan Area. The goal is to allow for an individual plan
approach for each campus or building, based on user preferences within a
range of requirements.
Background on the TCAAP Master Plan is found on the City of Arden Hills
website.
Permitted Uses -
Commercial
Business Service
Clinic/Medical Office
Financial Institution
Food Preparation
Hotel/Motel
Office
Pet Services
Research and Development Facility
Permitted Uses -
Industrial
Manufacturing & Processing – Class I.*
[30% of gross building s.f. (GSF) must be office use.]
*Manufacturing & Processing. Class I: All uses which include the
compounding, processing, packaging, treatment, or assembly of products
and materials. Generally, these are industries dependent upon raw materials
refined elsewhere. These uses include, but are not limited to: fabrication of
wood, metal, and plastic products; assembly of electronic components,
equipment, and appliances; processing of chemicals, plastics, food products,
and nonalcoholic beverages; manufacturing of clothing and textile products;
distribution centers, lumber yards, printing and binding shops, machine
shops, sheet metal shops, sign shops, contractor's shops and storage yards.
Class I = without exterior storage.
Accessory
Commercial Uses
Club, Sports & Fitness
Daycare Facility
Drive-up Windows
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Personal Services**
Restaurant and Restaurant Fast-Food
** Typical personal services include but are not limited to: apparel tailoring
and cleaning; hair styling, trimming and cutting; beauty services;
photographic services; and other services of a similar nature. Per Arden Hills
Zoning Code Section 1305.04 Definitions.
Accessory
Industrial Uses
Warehousing (as an accessory use only to Manufacturing and Processing)
[30% of GSF must be office use.]
Comprehensive
Plan Future
Land Use
Campus Commercial – (City of Arden Hills 2040 Comprehensive Plan)
Platting
Required
TCAAP Outlot A will need to be platted into one or more lots.
Preliminary and final plat are approved by the Joint Development Authority
(JDA) and checked by the Ramsey County Surveyor’s Office.
TCAAP Joint Development Authority
The TCAAP Joint Development Authority (TCAAP JDA) is chaired by a resident of the City of Arden Hills, and
consists of elected officials from the City of Arden Hills and Ramsey County with the purpose of joint
governance of economic development and redevelopment of the TCAAP/Rice Creek Commons property. The
TCAAP JDA reviews all development proposals for conformity with the TCAAP Master Plan and has approval
authority for such proposals.
On February 6, 2023, the TCAAP JDA adopted the following vision statement for TCAAP/Rice Creek Commons:
The Joint Development Authority’s (JDA) vision for the Rice Creek Commons site is to create
economic prosperity, build an inclusive economy, have a long-term sustainable development,
and develop an energy forward community by providing much-needed housing at a variety
of income levels – including affordable housing – and creating well-paying jobs.
Environmental History, Remediation and Current Status
In 1983, the TCAAP property was placed on the federal and Minnesota Superfund lists.
In 2013, Ramsey County acquired the 427-acre TCAAP/Rice Creek Commons property from the U.S.
Government. Demolition and site remediation occurred on the 427-acre TCAAP/Rice Creek Commons
property, cleaning the soil to residential standards, as defined by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
(MPCA). In 2016, the MPCA issued a Certificate of Completion of Response Actions for soil remediation.
In 2019, the 427-acre TCAAP/Rice Creek Commons property soil and surface water was delisted by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) from the federal National Priority List (“federal Superfund”). In
2020, the MPCA also delisted the 427-acre TCAAP/Rice Creek Commons property from the state Permanent
List of Priorities (“state Superfund”).
As result of the above actions, the site is development ready.
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More information about cleanup activities and environmental history can be found via the U.S. EPA and MPCA
websites.
Infrastructure Context
Road and Utility Access (Thumb Road - Old Highway No. 8)
•Two-lane undivided roadway with stripped center median with turn lanes - constructed and opened for
access - access to Interstate l-35W at County H interchange to the south and County Road I to the north.
•Sanitary Sewer - 8" PVC constructed. Will require a joint powers agreement - Sewer Line Ownership,
Operation, and Maintenance Agreement to be fully executed and will require the City of Arden Hills to
replace flow-metering system.
•Watermain - 12" PVC watermain with hydrants constructed in Thumb Road is operational. 12" public
watermain loop must be constructed on the easterly side of Outlot A.
•Storm Sewer - constructed and operational - no provision for Outlot A.
Stormwater Management
•Part of the approved Comprehensive Stormwater Management Plan (CSMP) with the Rice Creek
Watershed District.
•Infiltration possible on this site due to favorable soils and limited impacted soils.
•Surface stormwater management facility at south end of site.
•Discharges to Rice Creek.
Request for Development Interest – Required Proposal Contents
Responses must clearly and accurately demonstrate the expertise, capacity, and experience of the team to
meet the requirements of this RDI and the proposed project. Responses will be reviewed and evaluated
according to alignment with the County’s Economic Inclusion Plan and Equitable Development Framework
(see Appendix).
Responders should provide the following information:
•A cover page expressing the proposer’s vision for the property and including the following
information: Name, mailing address, telephone number and email of the primary contact
person; signature of authorized representative of proposal team.
•Company Information (Brief description of the company, size of the company, years in
business, and type of entity). Identify any women, racially and ethnically diverse and/or
veteran-owned contractors/construction managers or professionals who would be involved in
the project.
•Proposed project description to include the vision, use(s), scope and intended development program
for the site.
•Conceptual site plan showing the development program.
•Statement regarding alignment of the proposed development program with underlying zoning
•List of at least three successfully completed projects of similar size and scope to the project proposed.
•Brief narrative describing how the proposed project meets or exceeds the vision for TCAAP/Rice
Creek Commons adopted by the TCAAP Joint Development Authority (see above).
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•General approach, including community engagement plan, and proposed timeline.
•Land valuation (purchase price).
Proposal Evaluation and Selection
Evaluation of complete responses to this RDI will be conducted in a systematic manner that will include, but
not be limited to, the following criteria:
I.Site and Project Program. Proposed commercial or industrial components, square footages. Creative
and efficient design. Preservation of existing natural features.
II.Racial Equity and Inclusion. How the proposed development aligns with Ramsey County’s Equitable
Development Framework strategies.
III.Regulatory feasibility. The extent to which the project aligns with the TCAAP Regulating Code and City
of Arden Hills Comprehensive Plan.
IV.Economic Impact: Proposed property purchase price, estimated taxable market value of completed
project, hiring of BIPOC contractors and workers, and project’s overall employment potential.
V.Development Team: Overall experience of company and project principals with similar projects and
the type of development being proposed; financial and team member capacity to implement
proposal; previous experience of development team working together.
County Terms and Conditions
Solicitation addenda and additional information
Changes, additions, alterations, corrections or revisions to the RDI will be made in writing via an addendum.
Addenda will be posted to DemandStar and Rice Creek Commons and sent by email to those who provide contact
information to the RDI contact, Kari Collins. The County reserves the right to request any additional information at
any stage of the process. The County intends to conduct interviews with any or all responders at its discretion. The
County is not responsible for any costs incurred by the responder in preparing for or participating in an interview or
site visit.
Additional due diligence
It is the prerogative of Ramsey County to continue to do due diligence as needed during the RDI solicitation period,
to inform future direction for this property.
Collusion
Responders shall not enter into an agreement, participate in any collusion, or otherwise take any action in restraint
of free competition in connection with this solicitation or any contract which may result, including actions involving
other responders, competitors, County employees, or County Commissioners. Evidence of such activity will result in
rejection of the proposal.
Negotiation
Upon selection of preferred buyer(s), the County will negotiate development and purchase agreement(s) with the
selected respondent(s).
The resulting agreements and final design will include those terms and the salient features that the parties agree
are appropriate to achieve the development objectives articulated and referred to in this solicitation document,
including the County’s objectives for the sale of the land, and the terms and conditions required or deemed
appropriate as matters of County policy or relevant law, including those relating to data practices, audit, equal
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opportunity, and other matters. The selection will not be final until the appropriate agreement(s) are executed by
the parties. The County is not obligated to proceed to enter into a contract as a result of this solicitation and the
selection of respondent(s) for the purpose of entry into negotiations does not obligate the County, or the
respondent(s) to enter into a binding agreement.
Public notice
The County usesDemandStar to release information on this real estate development opportunity and associated
addenda through a public process. DemandStar offers immediate and automatic notification of documents, and
information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Subscription to DemandStar is free by following the DemandStar
Registration Instructions. Notice of this opportunity will also be communicated through other publications and
membership organizations focused on real estate and economic development.
Public information
Upon submission, submissions become the property of the County and will not be returned. All information
submitted to the County will be considered government data in accordance with Minnesota statutes governing data
practices, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13, including Sections 13.37 and 13.591.
Conflict of interest
The selected responder shall comply with all conflict-of-interest laws, ordinances and regulations now in effect or
enacted during the term of the eventual agreement. The responder warrants that it is not now aware of any facts
that create a conflict of interest.
If a responder becomes aware of any facts that might reasonably be expected to create a conflict of interest, it shall
immediately make full written disclosure of such facts to the County, including identification of all persons involved
and a complete description of all relevant circumstances. Failure to comply with this requirement shall be deemed a
material breach of the requirements of this solicitation and the eventual agreement.
Response acceptance
RDI responses conditioned upon selection and receiving any other contract award from the County shall be
rejected.
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Appendix
Arden Hills and Ramsey County Development Policy Resources
City of Arden Hills 2040 Comprehensive Plan
City of Arden Hills TCAAP Zoning Regulating Code (TRC)
Ramsey County Equitable Development Framework (attached
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 7
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 3, 2023
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Collins and Perrault
SUBJECT: JDA Advisory Committee Update
The JDA Advisory Committee met on February 24, March 10 and March 17. A verbal update will be
provided at the April 3 JDA meeting.