2020-03-11 CC Minutes - Approved

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City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes March 11, 2020 rd Ms. Sherry Cerra, 1975 - 73 Street, questioned why Council was tabling the vote and when the community would know when it was going for a vote? Mayor Paar stated truthfully they do not know when it will be brought back for a vote. He stated that at the March 25 meeting he will officially resign his seat. Administrator Statz stated that Council will want to fill the vacant position as soon as possible. He stated that he felt that the end of April would be the soonest they would probably bring the development back to Council for consideration. Administrator Statz provided the website as a tool for residents to located agenda packets and upcoming meeting topics. Ms. Cerra stated so the community will be informed about a vote on the project through the web site or newspaper? Mayor Paar stated the council packets are available the Friday prior to the meeting. He stated that the City is attempting to inform the public through other social media venues like Twitter and Facebook also. Mayor Paar recessed the meeting for a brief break. Mayor Paar called the meeting back to order at 8:17 p.m. Ms. Melissa Mills, 1654 Hunters Ridge Lane, asked how the design for the building was conceived by the developer, the Council, the Comprehensive Plan or a subcommittee. She stated that the design of the building that she has seen in the newsletter of both proposed buildings does not look similar to building in Hugo’s business area. She stated that if she had a potential coffee shop business to put in the downtown area, she would think twice because of the surrounding buildings in the area look to need cosmetic/aesthetic repairs. She stated she received this information on Block 7 in the City’s newsletter and realizes that one of the buildings is a concept plan and wondered if they could make the buildings look similar. She felt that it would bring in more businesses due to the fact that it was more attractive. Mayor Paar stated the City along with the EDA have provided programs to local businesses allowing for grant funding and matching low interest loans for façade type renovations and other renovations. He stated that meetings have been organized and held with these business owners. Mayor Paar stated that new attracts new and old attracts nothing. Mayor Paar stated that Council utilizes its Comprehensive Plan as a tool for development and it is revised over time through required updates and trending. He stated that they City previously completed a study with the Damon Farber Group who suggested that the City recognize and embrace the City’s French-Canadian heritage through facades, and building aesthetics. He also stated that it is the City’s goal to bring some type of business to the downtown area rather than a massive redevelopment due to the economy and City owned property being available. Mayor Paar stated the City had enacted an EDA to assist with attracting businesses to the area. Council Member Love stated that the EDA was requested to give a “mock up” plan on the design of the building on what could go at 1737 Main Street and what it could possibly look like. He stated this is not a final plan but rather a concept plan. He stated its Council is attempting to adequately provide the community with avenues for attracting businesses. Ms. Katie DuFault, 7045 Centerville Road, asked Council why they are not voting on the item this evening. She stated that Council has five (5) acting members, the item was on the agenda, and many individuals are here expressing their concerns? Mayor Paar explained that due to his resignation and residing outside of the community he is uncomfortable casting his vote for the Page 7 of 18