2022-02-23 Administrator's Report

Home Browse Search

Anoka County Regional Economic Development (ACRED) th Samantha Markman, ACRED Executive Director attended the February 16 EDA meeting and provided an overview of 2021 activities, project inquiries, goals, committees, initiatives, and events. Highlights include the 2021 Up River Real Estate Event and 2021 PGA Tour: 3M Open. Almost half of the project inquiries were from the industrial sector, followed by commercial, assistance, and housing. Organization goals include: Marketing, Readiness, and Regionalism & Alignment. Initiatives include: Regional Broadband Efforts, Marketing at 2022 Events, Regional Business Retention & Expansion Initiative and Community Support. A number of events are in the process of being planned for this year, including: ACRED Business & Banking Summit and ACRED Up River Real Estate Event. The dates have not been confirmed. A number of sponsored events are also being planned – more information can be found on the ACRED website. EDA The EDA reviewed their 2021-2022 Strategic Plan at their th February 16 meeting. The Commissioners talked about past accomplishments (success with the CenterStage and Blue Logo programs as well as business engagement). The focus for this year, although not exclusively, will be on developing a plan for downtown and the waterfront, Business Retention and Expansion visits, Community Outreach, Intersection of th 20 and Main. The EDA is also weighing their options regarding their involvement with vacant properties. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Block 7 Property (Downtown) – “Sorel Quarter” Centra Homes will appear in-person at the March 1 Planning and Zoning Commission to review exterior finishes. They will have physical samples to present and updated renderings. As always, the public is welcome to attend this meeting. This will be the last opportunity to give input on the design of the homes. A Developer’s Agreement and draft Homeowner’s Association Documents will be presented to the Planning Commission and City Council in the coming weeks. Centerville Elementary School Expansion A few supply chain issues in addition to a sanitary sewer service issue, are producing challenges for the contractor, in meeting their original schedule. An expected completion date is unknown at this time. stnd Old Mill Estates 1 and 2 Additions The developer has requested a Letter of Credit reduction. A warranty bond for the improvements has now been received by the city, allowing the reduction request to be processed. The City is in discussion with the homeowner near the cul-de-sac on Old Mill Court, exploring alternative routes for the trail. The city will continue to hold security for the completion of the trail until this process plays out and the trail link is completed. th Centerville Storage (20Ave. Mini Storage) A few items remain to be completed prior to allowing the facility to be opened, including some fence work.