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8. Action Items: a. Consider Support for Metropolitan Council Livable Communities Demonstration Grant Application by Central Community Housi ng Trust for Har Mar Apartments Renovation Ms. Radel explained that Central Community Housing Trust (CHHT) is working on the revitalization of the Har Mar Apartments and is asking the city to consider preparing a grant application to the Metropolitan Council’s Tax Base Revitalization Account (TBRA) on their behalf. CCHT is seeking the support of the HRA before taking the matter before the City Council at their September 24 meeting. Ms. Radel introduced Kate McGough from CCHT and provide d the board with a handout about the Har Mar Apartments project. Ms. McGough provided background in formation on the Har Mar Apartments project, explaining that CHHT plans to rehabilitate the existing five apartment buildings on the site; creating 105 one- and two- bedroom units during the first phase of the project and constructing a new buildi ng of 30 two- and three- bedroom units during the second phase. Ms. McGough explained that CCHT applied for funding from the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) in 2006 and did not receive funding. CCHT reapplied for MHFA funding this year a nd Ms. McGough was optimistic that the MHFA will award funding to CCHT for the project this fall. If CCHT secures this funding, the rehabilitation phase of the project can begin. Ms. McGough indicated that CCHT has discovered lead-based paint and asbestos in the existing apartment buildings which is not unusual given their age. Ms. McGough noted that CCHT has an idea of the scope of work involved in abatement of these issues and hopes to submit an application to the Metropolitan Council’s Tax Base Revitalization Account to assist in this effort. Ms. McGough explained that the apartments will carry affordable rents and w ill be targeted to lower-wage service sector workers. Ms McGough noted that CCHT has received funding support from Ramsey County, the City of Roseville, Andersen Foundation and Ande rson Corporate Foundation. Member Pust asked Ms. McGough if CCHT has a back -up plan in case they don’t receive funding from MHFA. Ms. McGough noted that CCHT would proceed with rehabbing the existing units and would reapply for MHFA funding in 2008. She noted that it isn’t unusual to apply a few times before receiving funding, due to the agency’s limited resources. In the event that CHHT doesn’t receive MHFA funding this year, Ms. McGough indicated that CCHT could pr oceed with lead and asbestos abatement if they receive funding from the TBRA (while waiting to reapply for MHFA funding in 2008). Member Kelsey inquired after the current occupa ncy in the buildings. Ms. McGough replied that approximately 85% are currently occupied and the re maining units are considered uninhabitable due to water damage. Member Maschka i nquired about renter qualifications . Ms. McGough indicated that qualification will be based on income; six units will be set aside for homeless, six units will be set aside for renters receiving Section 8 assistance and the rema ining units will be rented to those who make 50- 60% of median income. Chair Majerus asked Ms. Mc Gough to clarify the type of support CCHT is seeking from the HRA. Ms. McGough noted that the TBRA grant application must be made by the City, therefore she is asking for a vote of support from the HRA before taking the matter up with the City Council at their September 24 meeting.