HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-06-13 CC WS
City Council 2007-06-13, 6:00 p.m.
Minutes of Work Session
Present were Mayor Mary Capra, Council members Michelle Lakso, Linda Broussard-
Vickers, Jeff Paar, and Tom Lee. Also present were Finance Director John Meyer, city
engineer Mark Statz, City Attorney Kurt Glaser, and attorney Bob Deike, retained by the
City. Representing the developer, Beard Group was Tom Mehl.
The purpose of the meeting was to review the development agreement and the status of
the downtown development project. Bob Deike reviewed the development agreement.
John Meyer explained the financial details of the plan and the various funding that would
support the project. It was noted that funding of Phase 1 is substantially complete.
Developer Mehl indicated that they hope to begin construction in the spring, but exact
dates are open yet, because they need to meet private bank financing requirements for
presales and rental agreements.
Council member Paar questioned the term of the tax increment financing. John Meyer
noted that the structure has the TIF running for 26 years, although that could be shortened
as other financing sources are pursued.
The council discussed the property acquisition. Mr. Mehl indicated that none of the
properties have purchase agreements; however, he has met with several property owners.
City attorney Glaser reminded Council that it will be likely that eminent domain will be
necessary to acquire some of the parcels, in the event some of the owners are reluctant to
sell. It was further noted that eminent domain could only be used for property used for
public purposes, such as streets and parking lots.
Council member Broussard-Vickers made several suggestions regarding the insurance
sections of the agreement.
The Council discussed the phasing of the project and the various public improvements
that will be needed. It was pointed out that Centerville Road will need to be coordinated
with Anoka County, since it is also a county road. Administrator Larson indicated that he
has contacted Doug Fisher at Anoka County to schedule a meeting to discuss the
improvements to Centerville Road.
Everyone seemed satisfied that the agreement could be finished and placed on the next
Council agenda for consideration.
Adjourned at approximately 9:15 p.m.
Dallas Larson, Administrator