HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-01-2024 JDA Agenda Packet
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
JDA MEETING AGENDA
Monday, April 1, 2024, 5:30 p.m. at Arden Hills City Hall
1. Roll Call
2. Approval of Agenda
3. Approval of Minutes
4. Public Input
5. Consent Agenda
6. Old Business
7. Public Hearings
8. New Business
a. Update on Communications
b. Update from the State Legislative Session
c. Update from Energy Advisory Committee
d. Update from Development Agreement Discussions
e. Review Road Map
9. Administrative Director’s Report
10. Development Director’s Report
11. Commissioner Updates
12. Adjournment
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 2
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Collins and Perrault
SUBJECT: Approval of Agenda
The agenda for the April 1, 2024, JDA Meeting must be approved.
Action Requested:
Approve the agenda for April 1, 2024.
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 3
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Collins and Perrault
SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes
The meeting minutes from the February 5, 2024, JDA Meeting must be approved.
Attachment:
2/5/24 JDA Minutes.
Action Requested:
Approve the meeting minutes from February 5, 2024.
Joint Development Authority
Monday, February 5, 2024
Arden Hills City Council Chambers
Minutes
5:30 pm
Roll Call
Joint Development Authority: Chair Jon Wicklund, Commissioner Nicole Frethem,
Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt, Commissioner Tom Fabel, Commissioner Tena Monson
Also present: Dave Perrault (Arden Hills); Jessica Jagoe (Arden Hills); Ella Mitchell (Ramsey
County)
Roll call taken.
Approval of Agenda
Motion by Commissioner Fabel seconded by Commissioner Frethem to approve the agenda as
presented. Motion carried.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Monson seconded by Commissioner Frethem to approve the January
2, 2024 JDA meeting minutes as presented. Motion carried.
Public Input
Donna Weiman, 1406 Arden View Drive, explained the TCAAP terms sheet that was approved in
December of 2023 includes that at least 20% of the 1,960 units will be affordable rental at or
below 60% AMI. She asked if this percentage increases, who will decide and questioned what
factors will determine the percentage increase. She inquired if there will be any citizen
involvement in the decision to make changes. She reported since 2019, the County has stated
they need 15,000 units of affordable housing units to very low-income households. She
questioned what this means for the County’s affordable housing plans and their intentions for
the TCAAP property. She understood affordable housing was needed, but asked that the County
and JDA keep the City informed of changes that are made to the percentages that are being
considered and to keep the public involved.
Lynn Diaz, 1143 Ingerson Road, indicated she recently read that the Surgeon General states
loneliness is as bad for our well-being as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. She commented on how
people who are socially isolated feel the effects of stress more and are more likely to be in poor
health. She encouraged the JDA to have public gathering spaces and rooms available for
seniors. She hoped a library or a community center could be included in the development
because Arden Hills currently has no gathering space for the public. She suggested that all
senior buildings constructed be required to have a van.
Consent Agenda
None.
Old Business
None.
Public Hearings
None.
New Business
a. Update on JDA Annual Report
Ella Mitchell reviewed the JDA Annual Report for 2023 in detail with the Commissioners.
Commissioner Monson questioned what the balance of the budget was at this time. Ms.
Mitchell explained all JDA expenses were currently funded by a County project account. She
stated the communications balance would be used to pay for the energy consultant.
Commissioner Monson recommended energy and large accomplishments be reflected within
the annual report along with risks.
Chair Wicklund stated in 2023, the JDA spent $62,000. He requested expenses in previous
years be further detailed. He suggested staff also provide further information regarding the
2024 budget.
The JDA supported the financials and four additional bullet points being a part of the annual
report going forward.
b. Update on Outlot A
Ella Mitchell stated on April 24, 2023, a Request for Development Interest (RDI) for Rice Creek
Commons/TCAAP Outlot A (also known as the Thumb Parcel) was released on DemandStar. The
response deadline was July 28, 2023, and six proposals for commercial/industrial development
concepts were received. An evaluation team made up of County staff, City of Arden Hills staff,
and a financial consultant reviewed and evaluated all proposals based on the criteria listed in
the RDI. Through this evaluation process, the pool of proposals was narrowed to the three top
scoring proposals for consideration.
Ms. Mitchell reported on August 22, 2023, an overview of all proposals was given in a closed
session of the Ramsey County Board. On October 2, 2023, the TCAAP Joint Development
Authority (JDA) received a presentation on the top three proposals and recommended a
proposal from Ryan Companies, labeled in the presentation as Proposal A, to the Ramsey
County Board for consideration.
Ms. Mitchell explained on October 10, 2023, the Ramsey County Board met in closed session to
review the JDA‘s recommendation and directed staff to move forward with negotiations with
Ryan Companies. Staff worked with Ryan Companies to negotiate a Letter of Intent (LOI), signed
on November 6, 2023, and then began drafting a Purchase and Sale Agreement (PSA).
Ms. Mitchell indicated a Purchase and Sale Agreement was negotiated based on Ryan
Companies’ concept plan for build-to-suit light-industrial/office and retail development that
includes placemaking aspects and pedestrian access to the adjacent Rice Creek Regional Park
trails and open space. The Purchase and Sale Agreement provides for an inspection period up to
15 months, during which Ryan Companies will complete their due diligence on the property.
The sale transaction is anticipated to close in early 2025, with site development work to begin
thereafter. A closed session of the Ramsey County Board was held on January 9, 2024, where
the Ramsey County Board reviewed the terms of the PSA and the timeline associated with the
proposed Outlot A site development.
Ms. Mitchell stated on January 16, 2024, the Ramsey County Board voted unanimously to
approve and execute the PSA with Ryan Companies, and the PSA was fully executed on January
17, 2024. Ryan Companies thus commenced the due diligence period and began working
directly with City and County staff on predevelopment activities such as entitlement process
and document review. Media coverage of Outlot A is described in agenda Item 8c, Update on
Communications. The disposition of Outlot A to Ryan Companies will result in land sale
proceeds of $12,751,319, which will be deposited into the County Rice Creek Commons Project
account for future reinvestment into the Rice Creek Commons development.
Commissioner Reinhardt appreciated how Ryan Companies was working to meet the JDA’s
energy goals.
Commissioner Fabel agreed the energy goals were terrific. He indicated he was troubled by the
15-month due diligence period and asked if Ryan Companies could walk away from the project.
Ms. Mitchell explained earnest money has been paid by Ryan Companies towards the closing
price. She indicated Ryan Companies sees a great deal of value in the site and offered the
County $12.75 million for the property. In addition, they have end users that were interested in
the site. She stated she could not speak to what would happen if Ryan Companies were to walk
away in 15 months. She reported she could speak to legal counsel to get further information
regarding this matter. She commented on how the County has made Ryan Companies aware of
the fact two JDA members, the County Commissioners, would not be running for re-election
and that it would be beneficial to move this project along sooner rather than later.
Commissioner Frethem reported Ryan Companies was very excited about this project and
noted there were legal hoops in place. She indicated she did not have any concerns with the
proposed project timeline. She hoped the project timeline would create momentum to move
the entire project forward.
Commissioner Monson explained the $12.7 million would be paid to the County in February to
May of 2025. She asked when the bonding money would be made available to the County. Ms.
Mitchell reported decisions on this funding would be made in the next six months.
Commissioner Monson stated it appears the County won’t have a problem getting the bonding
because the County would have a match. She requested further information regarding the
development agreement. Ms. Mitchell reported the JDA would have to approve a development
agreement for Outlot A.
Commissioner Monson questioned if there had been interest in Outlot A. Ms. Mitchell stated it
was her understanding there has been interest, noting the location was a great selling point.
She indicated the key would be to hold out for a high-quality tenant.
Chair Wicklund inquired what the energy goals were for this parcel. Ms. Mitchell explained the
JDA is was just starting work with the energy consultant and noted Ryan Companies has been
made aware of the all-electric goal. She indicated the JDA could consider a carbon neutral goal
as well.
c. Update on Communications
Ms. Mitchell stated Goff Public worked with Ramsey County, Arden Hills and Ryan Companies
to announce the purchase and sale agreement for Outlot A, approved by the Ramsey County
Board of Commissioners on January 16. Communications tactics included a media advisory,
press release, county and city social media channels, the Rice Creek Commons e-newsletter,
and updates to the Rice Creek Commons microsite, including a revised Outlot A webpage. Goff
Public also worked with Ramsey County and the Joint Development Authority on reactive
messaging for the updated Alatus term sheet approved in December. Nine people submitted
inquiries through the microsite contact portal, which Ramsey County staff responded to
directly. Topics included trails, commercial use, schools, safety, traffic and multiple people
interested in future housing units.
d. Review Road Map
Ms. Mitchell reviewed the road map in detail with the Commission. She reported no changes
had been made since last month.
Chair Wicklund stated there were five meetings on the calendar for the JDA for 2024. He noted
the end goal for 2024 was to have a development agreement in place.
Commissioner Reinhardt believed the proposed timeline was reasonable.
Commissioner Fabel commented the main project of concern for him was having the financial
resources in place by March 31. He understood Commissioner Frethem would be going to
Washington, he requested the JDA receive a report or update on the progress that was being
made regarding project financials. He suggested the JDA receive an update from federal
government representatives as well.
Commissioner Frethem indicated she would continue to work to build federal awareness for
the project and to build partnerships in order to secure funding and investors. She commented
on how developing Outlot A with specific energy goals would assist in identifying future
partners.
Commissioner Monson requested further information on what the financial gap is at this time.
Ms. Mitchell reported there are a lot of costs to putting in the infrastructure for the site and
preparing the site for vertical development. She stated the horizontal work included grading the
site, roads, stormwater, parks, water tower, trails, and sidewalks. She explained the estimated
cost for the horizontal work was $180 million. She indicated the County has some sources that
would be invested in the project, along with requested State funding, but noted the County
would continue to seek funding to assist with funding these expenditures. She reported the
County may not have all funding in place when the project begins, but would continue to seek
funding.
Commissioner Monson stated one of the biggest gaps is significant potential for subsurface risk,
given the soils. She reported subsurface risk was a real risk. She commented on how important
it was to properly manage soils for stability purposes. She stated because this land would cost
more to prepare, it may outweigh the value of the land, which was creating the real financial
gap. She recommended funding updates be given to the JDA going forward but questioned how
this should be completed by staff.
Chair Wicklund suggested the portions of the development agreement that are complete be
reviewed by the JDA. He recommended the financials for TCAAP be reviewed on a monthly
basis.
Commissioner Monson supported the JDA reviewing the financials on a monthly basis as well.
Commissioner Reinhardt indicated there were a lot of moving parts when it comes to this
project. She appreciated how diligently staff was working on this project, in addition to selling
Outlot A. She supported the City and County pursuing grants through the federal government
for this project.
Commissioner Frethem explained she worried about getting too into the weeds when it came
to the financials, noting cost projections can generally be good, but things may also change. She
discussed how costs may need to be adjusted over time as the County and City pursue grants
for this project. She recommended the level of depth within the term sheet check in be both
useful and necessary.
Commissioner Fabel commented on the soil concerns before the Town Center area could be
developed. He stated communications suggest the possibility that this area is not developable.
He indicated this was an enormous concern to him. He questioned if the design of the project
had to be reimagined.
Chair Wicklund recommended staff or experts speak to the JDA regarding soil conditions at the
next workshop meeting. Ms. Mitchell clarified that there is a difference between soil
remediation and soil corrections. She said that soil remediation has already been completed,
but soil corrections in order to make the soil structurally sound for building is the issue at hand.
Ms. Mitchell reported soil corrections was a topic staff could address in further detail with the
JDA in March.
Commissioner Monson questioned if the County had spoken to Met Council regarding transit.
Ms. Mitchell explained the County met with Met Council a couple of weeks ago and requested
transit be brought to this site.
Commissioner Monson suggested Met Council be invited to attend a future JDA meeting. Ms.
Mitchell stated she could invite the Met Council to attend a meeting.
Commissioner Reinhardt recommended the Met Council not be invited to attend a JDA meeting
until after the legislative session. She commented on how the Met Council has been
underfunded and how things could change going forward.
Commissioner Frethem encouraged the JDA members to reach out to Peter Lindstrom, who is
the Met Council rep for this area.
e. Update from Energy Advisory Committee
Ms. Mitchell provided the JDA with an update from the Energy Advisory Committee. She
explained Ever-Green Energy and LHB have been brought on board as the green energy
consulting team. She stated she was excited to work with both of these organizations for the
green energy goals within this project. She reported a project kickoff would be held with Ever-
Green Energy and LHB on Friday, February 9. She commented further on the grants staff would
be pursuing for this project.
Commission Monson explained the Energy Advisory Committee last met in January. She
commented on the Red Bull tour that was conducted and noted she would be exploring a
partnership with the AHATS energy team. She reported she was beginning to explore what it
would take to do geothermal on the site. She stated the Energy Advisory Committee would be
meeting next on Wednesday, February 14.
Commissioner Reinhardt explained she spoke with the Department of Health to learn if there
were health or pollution concerns. She spoke to the JDA further about the health concerns from
a superfund site, noting there were no major concerns at this time. She commented further on
the three different types of geothermal systems that were allowed in Minnesota. She
understood there would be a lot of hurtles for geothermal, but she appreciated the fact the
Energy Advisory Committee had more information.
Commissioner Frethem asked if Xcel Energy would be part of the advisory committee going
forward.
Commissioner Monson reported Xcel Energy would have a representative attending meetings
going forward.
Chair Wicklund questioned if the Energy Advisory Committee meetings should be added to the
road map.
Commissioner Monson stated in theory these meetings should be added to the road map, but
noted the group does not have a standing meeting date. Rather the group meets as needed.
Chair Wicklund commented at this time, the Energy Advisory Committee meetings will not be
added to the road map. He inquired if there was any reason for the JDA to meet with the
energy consultants.
Commissioner Monson stated the project kickoff would be held later this week and a summary
of this meeting could be provided to the JDA in March.
Commissioner Frethem suggested the consultants be invited to a meeting later this year in
order to allow the public to engage on this topic.
Administrative Director’s Report
Ms. Mitchell reported she had no further update for the JDA.
Development Director’s Report
Director Perrault explained the JDA requested an increase in the density allowed at the Rice
Creek Commons site, which required City approval. The City approval consisted of a
comprehensive plan amendment and TRC amendment. He reported the Council considered this
in January and was approved. He stated the Met Council has yet to review and approve this
matter. He indicated the City Council requested a conversation with commercial developers to
discuss the commercial zoning on the west side of the spine road at the Rice Creek Commons
site. This discussion will be held during a special City Council work session meeting on Monday,
February 12 at 5:00 p.m. He noted at least two commercial developers would be attending this
meeting. Lastly, he thanked staff for all of their efforts on Rice Creek Commons.
Commissioner Updates
Commissioner Frethem reported she would not be able to attend the March JDA meeting.
Commissioner Monson responded to a couple of the comments made during Public Input. She
noted this board would decide on the affordable housing mix. She explained she understood
the importance of social and gathering spaces noting they were vital for human relationships.
Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 6:46 pm.
Approved _____________________________________ _______________________
Jon Wicklund, Chair Date
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 4
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
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 three minutes per person.
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 8a
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Allison Winters and Sara Swenson, Goff Public
SUBJECT: Update on Communications
Goff Public worked with Ramsey County to prepare messaging for the Rice Creek Commons public
infrastructure development and design request for proposals (RFP). Messaging tools included talking
points, website copy and a reactive media statement. There have been no media inquiries or coverage
regarding the infrastructure RFP to date.
Student journalists with the Mounds View High School student newspaper, The Viewer, wrote an article
about the Outlot A purchase and sale agreement and history of Rice Creek Commons in late February:
TCAAP land development changes. Goff Public worked with Ramsey County and Arden Hills to
coordinate information, clarifications and an interview with Councilmember Monson.
Goff Public also worked with Ramsey County and Arden Hills on edits to the Joint Development
Authority annual report.
One person submitted an inquiry through the microsite contact portal regarding parks and trails, which
Ramsey County staff responded to directly.
Attachment:
None
Action Requested:
None
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 8b
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Jennifer O’Rourke, Director of Government Relations, Ramsey County
SUBJECT: Update from the State Legislative Session
Will there be an Omnibus Bonding Bill? According to the legislative schedule, 2024 is traditionally a
bonding year. Speaker Hortman has been consistent with her messaging—the only thing left she wants
to accomplish this year is passing a bonding bill. Some speculate that there won’t be a bonding bill and
they don’t have the necessary Republican votes to pass a bonding bill as they need a
supermajority. Others remain hopeful that they will pass a bonding bill—Senate Capitol Investment chair
Senator Pappas (Saint Paul) has certainly expressed a desire to pass one. Going into an election year,
conventional wisdom would say most legislators should be motivated to pass the bill so they can talk
about projects they’ve been able to deliver on.
Bill Information: On the House side, HF3510 was introduced on 2/12/24, with Representative Moller as
the chief author and Ramsey / Anoka county area Representatives Hussein, Curran, and Fischer, Norris,
Feist, Kraft, Newton who have signed on as co-authors. On the Senate side, SF3990 as introduced on
2/20/24, with Senator Marty as the chief author and Senators Xiong, Gustafson, and Oumou Verbeten
as co-authors.
Lobbying: Ramsey County commissioners and Government Relations staff have been consistent with all
legislators, our Ramsey County delegation, and the Governor’s office that bonding for Rice Creek
Commons is our number one issue and we need the full $25 million. Rice Creek Commons has been
popular with members and everyone seems to understand the need for investment in this project and
that the timing is right. We have been collecting letters of support for the project.
Hearings: While the House and Senate Capital Investment committees have been meeting, they have
not been hearing individual bills. They have been taking presentations from the various agencies,
essentially the Governor’s recommendations which did not contain any local projects. They have also
spent committee time taking up lots of technical and clarifying changes related to the 2023
bonding/cash bills. The general thought this year is that if you received a tour stop on the bonding tours,
which Rice Creek Commons did on both the Senate and House side, then you do not get a bill
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
hearing. We do not expect a hearing in either body, which again is expected. It makes the need for
individual conversations all the more important.
Attachment:
Rice Creek Commons Fact Sheet
Action Requested:
None
ricecreekcommons.com
Rice Creek Commons
Ramsey County is working together with the City of Arden Hills and Alatus LLC to revitalize the former Twin
Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP) site into a vibrant, sustainable community including housing that is
accessible to the diverse needs of new and existing residents, commercial development with high-quality
jobs and public parks and trails. The site is now known as Rice Creek Commons, in reference to Rice Creek
which meanders through the development and will provide the setting for walking, bike paths and a natural
resource corridor.
Public investment request
In 2023, Ramsey County requested $25 million of state funding to build
stormwater infrastructure and a public roadway (known as the Spine
Road) that will connect County Road H and Highway 96 through the
Rice Creek Commons development.
The construction of this public infrastructure is the key to unlocking the
development potential of the 427-acre site to deliver the site vision
which is to create economic prosperity, build an inclusive economy and
develop an energy-forward community by providing much-needed
housing at a variety of price points – including deeply affordable
housing – and creating well-paying jobs. Mass grading at the Rice Creek
Commons redevelopment site and the construction of “Spine Road”
could begin as early as 2026, upon project funding determination.
Additional information
By the numbers
Size of development site
427 acres
Cost of public infrastructure
including Spine Road
$89 million
Housing units
up to 1,960
County investment to-date
$43.7M
Estimated value
of future development
$1 billion
*All figures 2023 estimates
Rice Creek Commons will provide
Housing opportunities for thousands of Minnesotans.
Commercial development providing high-quality jobs.
Public park and amenity space.
Rice Creek North Regional Trail Corridor pedestrian and cycling facilities.
Natural resources corridor and regional stormwater treatment system.
Significant tax base expansion.
A model for sustainable development
Project partners are committed to a bold vision for
clean energy and sustainable development. Xcel Energy and Ever-Green
Energy are actively partnering with the JDA Energy Advisory Committee
to plan for Rice Creek Commons to become a model for energy resilience
and sustainable development.
A natural resource corridor
The site will have abundant public space,
including over 200 acres of public land
for trails, parks, amenities, and open
space. A 50-acre natural resources
corridor winds through the proposed
site, providing a natural amenity and
regional stormwater treatment. Rice
Creek provides access to area lakes and
the Mississippi River by canoe and kayak.
A model for equitable development
This public-private partnership is committed to building an inclusive
economy that offers high quality jobs and affordable housing
infrastructure. Ramsey County’s Equitable Development Framework and
Economic Competitiveness & Inclusion Plan are guiding documents
which will advance the County’s commitment for this development
toward an equitable outcomes vision.
Rice Creek Commons will have:
• Rental and ownership opportunities.
• Apartments, townhomes and single-
family homes.
• Housing available at all income levels,
including deeply affordable homes.
Joint Powers Agreement
(JPA) is established between
the City of Arden Hills and
Ramsey County for the
redevelopment of TCAAP,
creating the TCAAP Joint
Development Authority (JDA).
Ramsey County purchases a
427-acre parcel of the TCAAP
property from the U.S.
Government and began its
environmental remediation of
the site.
Cleanup of the site to
unrestricted land use standards
is complete. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) and
Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency (MPCA) remove the
site’s soil and surface water
from the state and federal
Superfund lists.
TCAAP Redevelopment Code,
outlining the land use for the
site, adopted by the JDA.
The JDA is working with
public and private partners
to move forward with the
development of the site.
2012
2013
2015
2016
Ongoing Did you know? The U.S. Army constructed
TCAAP to manufacture munitions during World
War II. At its peak, the plant employed 26,000
people – more than half were women.
JENNIFER O’ROURKE
Director of Government Relations
651-724-3461 . jennifer.orourke@ramseycounty.us
KARI COLLINS
Director of Community & Economic Development
651-302-4455 . kari.collins@ramseycounty.us
LEARN MORE: ricecreekcommons.com
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 8c
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Commissioner Monson
SUBJECT: Update from Energy Advisory Committee
Commissioner Monson and staff will provide updates from the Energy Advisory Committee.
Attachment:
None
Action Requested:
None
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 8d
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Perrault and Collins
SUBJECT: Update on Development Agreement Discussions
Staff will provide a verbal update on the Development Agreement discussions including a review of the
Term Sheet.
Attachment:
Term Sheet – working draft
Action Requested:
None
Rice Creek Commons Terms for Final Development Agreement 4/1/2024 Working Draft
1
Term Sheet
Parties: Alatus LLC and the Joint Development Authority (JDA)
Current Status To Be Determined
A. Assumptions
This Term Sheet is intended to set forth the general terms that
the developer and the JDA may be willing to enter into in a
definitive final Development Agreement to be
negotiated. Neither this Term Sheet nor approval thereof shall
constitute an offer or agreement and no agreement with
respect to the matters set forth herein shall be effective until
the date of execution of a definitive final Development
Agreement in writing by all parties thereto.
The terms below are predicated on the County receiving
funding from the State for site infrastructure ($25M request). If
this funding is not allocated, there will be implications both for
timing and financing of the project.
The Final Development Agreement shall be consistent with the
Joint Powers Agreement.
State funding
request submitted.
Legislature currently
in session.
B. Infrastructure Financing
The parties understand that the infrastructure funding for the
project is critical to its advancement and will work
collaboratively to ensure the infrastructure financing is
achieved in a manner mutually agreeable to the parties. The
City’s goal is to have their respective infrastructure financed
and paid for by the development and not burden existing
residents.
Request for
Proposal for County
infrastructure
released 3/14/24.
Infrastructure
financing analysis
underway.
• Financial commitments of all parties to infrastructure
• Who will be responsible for managing infrastructure
project(s)
Rice Creek Commons Terms for Final Development Agreement 4/1/2024 Working Draft
2
C. Public/Private Financing
The parties understand from financial analysis that there are
funding gaps in the project. The parties will actively pursue
both public and private sources of funding with the goal of
identifying a path to filling these gaps by the end of 1Q 2024.
The parties understand that beyond infrastructure financing,
there may be opportunities to leverage financing tools available
to the site, which may include City, County, State, Federal,
and/or private funds. The parties will work collaboratively to
explore funding opportunities and find mutually agreeable
solutions. The County expects to invest money in affordable
housing on the site through its funding sources, such as the
Housing and Redevelopment Authority levy, CDBG, and HOME.
Financial analysis
underway.
• Financial commitments of all parties to other parts of the
development
D. Housing Density
The parties will work toward developing a maximum of 1,960
housing units on the site, pending final approval of the
necessary regulatory changes. Lesser densities may be
considered upon mutual agreement. Housing will include a
range of types, including but not limited to single-family
houses, townhouses, and apartments.
Regulatory
approvals complete.
TRC update
underway.
• Number of units of each housing type planned (single-family,
townhomes, multifamily, co-ops, etc.)
E. Housing Affordability
The parties share a goal of providing affordable housing on the
site and will work toward a minimum of twenty percent of the
total housing unit count (392 units at a maximum of 1,960 total
units) to consist of affordable rentals at 60% AMI or below. The
developer will pursue opportunities for funding and submit
applications to make these rental units more deeply affordable,
from sources such as Minnesota Housing (low-income housing
tax credits (LIHTC)), CDBG-HOME, County HRA levy funds, Local
Affordable Housing Aid (metro area sales tax funding), etc. and
with partners such as Habitat for Humanity.
Goal affirmed.
Terms and funding
to be discussed.
• Financial commitments for housing affordability – will be part
of future discussions at the individual development level
• Number of units of affordable rental housing planned and
affordability/AMI level
• Number of units of affordable for-sale housing planned (i.e.
eligible for down payment assistance)
• Affordability terms
• Rental policies (e.g. projects must accept Section 8 vouchers)
Rice Creek Commons Terms for Final Development Agreement 4/1/2024 Working Draft
3
The parties will additionally work toward constructing ten
percent of the owner-occupied units to accommodate Ramsey
County down payment assistance, which is accessible to
households who make less than 115% of area median income
(AMI) (in 2023, that equates to a for-sale price of less than
$372,000).
F. Housing Ownership versus Rental
The parties share a goal of providing opportunities for
homeownership opportunities in the development, and as part
of the final development agreement will come to a mutually
agreeable ratio of owner-occupied units to rental units.
To be discussed.
• Number of homeownership and rental units planned
• Mechanism for ensuring this balance comes to fruition
G. Commercial/Industrial Development and Job Creation
The parties understand that new employment at well-paying
jobs is an important objective for Rice Creek Commons, for
which reason certain areas have been zoned for commercial or
industrial usage. Accordingly, the parties agree to pursue
appropriate buyers or tenants for such areas as will maximize
the opportunities for such employment.
Affirmed.
• Details about job creation goals
H. Green Energy Goals and Infrastructure
The parties share the goal of building an ambitious, sustainable
development. The parties endorse the Rice Creek Common
Energy Vision, as adopted by the JDA on 10/2/23, and will
collaborate in alignment with the guiding principles therein. As
part of working toward this vision, the parties will explore the
feasibility of an all-electric development and work with the
selected energy consultant to create metrics to be included in
the final development agreement to achieve these goals.
Green energy
consultant under
contract. Analysis
underway.
• Specifics to be determined through energy consultant
contract:
o Goal for the development (i.e. net zero or all-electric
or carbon neutral or other)
o Energy technologies to be used to achieve that goal
o Metrics
• Financing for green energy work
• Other sustainability requirements beyond energy
Rice Creek Commons Terms for Final Development Agreement 4/1/2024 Working Draft
4
I. Building 116
The JDA will support the developer’s exploration of the
feasibility of moving Building 116 off the site, including
identifying a way to pay for the relocation.
Strategy underway.
• Financial resources to pay for potential relocation
• Regulatory process and permissions necessary
J. Maintenance and Operating Costs/Responsibilities
The parties understand that ongoing maintenance and
associated costs will need to be addressed in the final
development agreement. Furthermore, each party may have its
own goals in the short and long term. The parties will work
collaboratively to address these in the final development
agreement. For example, it is important to the City to ensure
the Rice Creek Commons does not put undue financial risk or
burden on the entire City and will seek to have short-term and
long-term funding gaps addressed.
Analysis underway.
• Financial responsibilities of all parties for long-term
maintenance and operating costs of the development
K. Ordinances and Policy Applicability
The developer will comply with all applicable federal, state, and
local ordinances.
To be discussed.
• Other construction standards including green building
standards, quality of construction, etc.
• Applicability of ordinances including Ramsey County
Prevailing Wage Ordinance No. 2013-329
L. Conveyance of Property
The property will be conveyed to the developer in tranches.
The parties will establish performance metrics, and the JDA will
assess performance on these metrics prior to the conveyance
of the next tranche.
Analysis underway.
• What exactly each tranche comprises
• Order in which tranches will be conveyed
M. Timeline
The parties will work together in earnest to negotiate and sign
a Final Development Agreement by the August JDA meeting,
scheduled for 8/7/2024.
Negotiations
underway.
• The PDA extends through June 2025 so this timeline is not set
in stone but is a goal.
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 8e
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Directors Perrault and Collins
SUBJECT: Review Road Map
Staff will provide an update on project updates since the last JDA meeting and a review of scheduled JDA
meetings and work sessions.
Attachment:
2024 JDA Road Map
Action Requested:
None
Month Date Meeting/Action or Deadline Topics or Notes
Jan 2 JDA Meeting JDA Schedule, Development Agreement Schedule,
Infrastructure and Traffic Updates
2 JDA Advisory Committee Prep for February JDA
5 JDA Meeting 2023 JDA Annual Report, Development Agreement Progress
Report
15
Mar 31 Term Sheet Goal: Financial Sources Identified
1 JDA Meeting Development Agreement Progress Report
25 JDA Advisory Committee
1
6 JDA Work Session Development Agreement Progress Report
23 JDA Advisory Committee
3 JDA Meeting Development Agreement Progress Report
20 JDA Advisory Committee
1 JDA Work Session [Tentative] Green Energy Work Session, Development
Agreement Progress Report
25 JDA Advisory Committee
5 JDA Meeting Review and Approve Development Agreement, JDA 6-month
Expense Report
22 JDA Advisory Committee
Rice Creek Commons 2024 Roadmap
Apr
Jun
Feb
Deadline: JDA Annual Report due to City and County
Deadline: Draft 2025 JDA Budget
May
Jul
Aug
1 Deadline: Coordinate JDA Budget with City and County budget processes
Potential Community Engagement Green Energy and Sustainability
10 JDA Work Session
19 JDA Advisory Committee
Potential Community Engagement Spine Road Infrastructure
7 JDA Meeting
31 JDA Advisory Committee
4 JDA Work Session
14 JDA Advisory Committee
15 Deadline: Report back on City/County approval of JDA budget
2 JDA Meeting Adopt 2025 JDA budget
19 JDA Advisory Committee
Key
JDA Meeting
JDA Work Session
Advisory Committee Meeting
Deadline
Other Meeting
Oct
Dec
Nov
Sept
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 9
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Ella Mitchell, Redevelopment Manager, Ramsey County
SUBJECT: Administrative Director’s Report
A verbal update will be provided by staff.
Attachments:
None
Action Requested:
None
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
Joint Development Authority
TCAAP Redevelopment Project
AGENDA ITEM 10
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 1, 2024
TO: Joint Development Authority Board of Commissioners
FROM: Director Perrault
SUBJECT: Development Director’s Report
A verbal update will be provided by Director Perrault.
Attachments:
None
Action Requested:
None