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7.Action Items: a.Set public hearing for June 15, 2004 in consideration of the use of eminent domain for the property located at 2012 Eldridge Street (HF0020). Executive Director Bennett introduced the topic, stated the history and noted that at the April HRA meeting, this item was delayed to allow the current property owner, Frank Wu, to present a schedule for development of the site and demolition of the home. HRA staff forwarded a list of demolition contractors to Mr. Wu and offered to assist in preparing a development schedule and bids for demolition. HRA staff contacted Mr. Wu by phone on May 10 again to offer assistance. Staff received an email from Mr. Wu indicating that he was meeting with a builder to review house plans and costs late the week of May 17, 2004. Bennett handed out a proposed construction timeline prepared by Mr. Wu that was received May 18, 2004 by email. The proposed schedule indicated that the new home would be started by the end of 2004 with demolition of the home in August 2004. Bennett further advised that the appraisal of the property located at 2012 Eldridge Street has been finalized based upon the property history, condition and exterior site review. (An interior inspection was not allowed by Mr. Wu after attempts by the appraiser. The appraised value is primarily the value of the land at $107,000 as of the date of the report April 30, 2004.) Bennett indicated that the HRA has powers to acquire the site using its statutory authority MN Stat. 469- 012 which allows the HRA to use eminent domain to acquire “substandard buildings or improvements”. She indicated that the history and condition of the property at 2012 Eldridge would meet this definition. Bennett indicated that the requested action tonight is to set a public hearing for June 15 at 7:00 p.m. to allow public comment regarding the project. At that hearing neighbors will be invited to comment on the condition of the house. The HRA, thereafter, could continue the item or take action to us their HRA authority for eminent domain. Member Scheunemann asked why the timeline to construct the house would take until the end of the year. This seems very long and drawn out. Member Bean explained how long this process has taken and is disappointed that the demolition of the home would not occur until late summer. She felt that the HRA should hold the hearing. : Motion Member Scheunemann moved, seconded by Member Marks, to adopt the attached resolution setting a public hearing for June 15, 2004, to consider the acquisition of the property at 2012 Eldridge Street by proceeding with eminent domain process. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Motion carried. 2