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HRA Meeting Minutes – Tuesday, November 16, 2010 Page 10 Chair Maschka cautioned the need to view the numbers in comparison to the total number of homes in Roseville. Member Lee questioned whether the cumulative foreclosure data indicated vacant homes; and who was purchasing the foreclosed homes. Mr. Trudgeon advised that there were approximately 15,000 single-family homes in Roseville, and while no foreclosures were preferred, the important trend to consider was if those foreclosures were random or if they were clustered on a certain block and the cause of such a cluster; in addition to the effect of vacancies and increased vandalism and deterioration of neighborhoods. Ms. Kelsey noted the limitation of the information based only on Sheriff’s Sales in Ramsey County, with other data being difficult to track to prove a more objective or comprehensive overview, such as how many had been redeemed or a plan worked out, or those in short sales. Ms. Kelsey cautioned the Board to take the entire picture into consideration, reminding members that the City of Roseville was not a hard-hit community when compared to other metropolitan communities. Ms. Kelsey noted, based on that status, the City of Roseville could not quality for any resources to alleviate foreclosures, which could be seen as a positive; and unlike other communities, using Brooklyn Park as an example, the City was not required to utilize a lot of its resources to deal with the situations. Mr. Trudgeon advised that the foreclosure update would be part of the quarterly HRA report to the City Council scheduled for Monday, November 22, 2010. b.Free Energy Audit Survey Results Ms. Kelsey provided an update and results of the post card survey, with a 75% return rate on those surveys, on the free energy audits. Ms. Kelsey noted that the survey indicated that 97% of those responding said the free audit was beneficial and useful; 95% planned to make improvements related to audit findings; 72% discovered a lack of insulation; 20% had inadequate appliances; 32% inefficient heating/cooling systems; with only 14% inefficiencies related to windows, 10% to humidity or consumer elements needed to better operate homes. Ms. Kelsey advised that there was a good cross section of recipients for the free audits, providing positive benefits to the community; and suggested the HRA may want to consider a repeat of the program in 2011. Ms. Kelsey advised that, of the 87 free audits provided, seven had pulled building permits related to furnace and/or window improvements or replacements, recognizing that a permit was not required for those doing insulation work. Member Lee noted the phenomenal response for the survey; with Ms. Kelsey noting that staff had used stamped post cards to encourage their return. Chair Maschka opined that this may be how to get the most effective use for improving and/or reducing energy use throughout the City, and achieving green city goals. c.HRA Quarterly Update to City Council on November 22, 2010 Executive Director Trudgeon encouraged Members to attend the November 22, 2010 quarterly update to the City Council, which would include the HRA’s “Green Smart” website. Mr. Trudgeon advised that the program would be introduced in the near future by staff to area realtors and benefits to them in promoting Roseville homes. Ms. Kelsey reviewed the success of and interest in the recently-implemented Google pop-up advertizing, and the variety of internet and social media venues in which they were being utilized through Minnesota promotions. Ms. Kelsey and the HRA’s marketing consultant were