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An argument could be made that these monies should only be used for the original intended <br />purpose, and any other use would nullify the "but for" reasoruing for creating the District in the <br />first place. One could also make the argument that circumstances have changed, and the City has <br />greater needs. elsewhere. The Council is advised to consider this decision carefully. The use of <br />tax increment proceeds are typically among the most closely watched expenditures a <br />municipality makes. In addition to interested citizens, close scrutiny is given by both the State <br />Auditor and Attorney General. <br />With respect to the potential uses, it is estimated that future development will generate <br />approximately $200,000 in increment per annum from 2005-2015, or a total of $2 million. The <br />use of these monies are restricted to; demolition, public infrastrueture, park facilities, and <br />housing. It is suggested that the Council prioritize these uses both within the Arona site and <br />within the City as a whole, before determining where the monies should be spent. <br />Potential Use of Land Sale Proceeds <br />In contrast to the future tax increment revenue, the monies deTived from the sale of City -owned <br />Iand at the Arona site is free and clear of any obligations. The monies may be used for any <br />lawful purpose. when considering the potential uses, it is suggested that the Council consider <br />the 1) original intent of purchasing the property, ) the one -time nature of these monies, 3) the <br />overall needs of the City, and 4) where the greatest value can be obtained. <br />The Arona site was purchased by the City after the original development proposal fell through. <br />The monies to purchase the site carne from the City's Community Development Fund (which <br />includes economic development and housing activities), for the purpose of capitalizing on future <br />development opportunities on the site. <br />In addition to the Arona site, their remains a long list of potential uses all with varying rewards. <br />A list of potential uses was created for the /04/03 Council Meeting, and is included in <br />Attachment B. It is difficult to provide guidance on hour best to use these proceeds. Although <br />management tools and decision tree models exist, determining the "best" use ultimately conies <br />down to value judgments. It is suggested that the Council begin by considering its core values <br />and community goals. <br />The most recent City Council goal - setting session took place in early 2002. At that time, six (6) <br />high - priority objectives were identified and include: <br />❑ Decide what to propose for a community center, and bring it to the citizens for a vote. <br />❑ Resolve the public safety function, structure, and facilities. <br />❑ Complete the planning process for the Arona site, and facilitate construction. <br />❑ Address the unique service issues and housing needs of our wing population. <br />❑ Define how the City can/ ants to achieve developing affordable housing. <br />❑ Revise the City" s special assessment policies. <br />Whether these objectives remain a high- priority is something for the Council to consider. As <br />was suggested above, an argument could be made that circumstances have changed, as has the <br />needs of the City. <br />