06-02-14 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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5 Factors Affecting Financial Condition (Continued) In 2004, the City entered into an agreement with a master developer to develop 40 acres in the southeast quadrant of I-35W and Lake Drive. Called Legacy at Woods Edge, this mixed-use development is intended to include diverse opportunities for housing, retail and office uses. To date, the development includes the Lino Lakes Civic Complex (which houses the city hall and police station), the Chain of Lakes YMCA, a 60 -unit workforce housing project, 13,000 square feet of leasable commercial space, and an assisted living facility. The Civic Complex and YMCA provide a civic and community focus as part of the vision for Town Center. A workforce family housing and assisted living facility provide diversity in housing to underserved populations within the City. In 2006, the City placed a major focus on reconstruction of the 35W/Lake Drive interchange and completion of public improvements in Legacy at Woods Edge to accommodate planned development and completed the improvements by 2008. However, it became evident at the end of 2007 that development was stalling. The recession has had negative impacts on the Legacy development. Both the master developer and lender defaulted, sending the remaining 22 acres intended for townhomes and commercial uses into tax forfeit. Development conditions have begun to improve relative to the Legacy property. During 2013, the assisted living facility purchased an adjoining parcel to expand its current operation. The 36-room addition is scheduled to begin occupancy in early 2014. In addition, the State Legislature approved City-initiated special legislation which has allowed the City to acquire the tax forfeited property from the State at no cost except for an administrative fee payable to Anoka County if future sale revenues exceed to value of the special assessments on the property. The acquisition of this property will allow the City greater control in marketing the property to potential developers. The solid foundation that was built and strong interest by developers prior to the recession ensures that better economic times will once again bring the interest in residential and commercial growth needed to complete the vision. Street, streetscape, water, sewer, and storm water improvements, as well as a small community park, have been installed within the development area and assessed to the development. This $11.1 million improvement was financed through the joint efforts of MNDOT, Anoka County and the City of Lino Lakes. The City has issued $4,215,000 in G.O. Tax Increment bonds and will use tax increment financing and Minnesota State Aid funds to finance its portion of the project cost. Once construction gains its footing again the City can assess the benefitting properties. The City continues to look for ways to resurrect the project and strives to be prepared to market the property when the economy recovers. Building activity and development continued to be soft in 2013, however, improvement in developer activity is evident. Building permits for new homes in 2013 numbered 30, compared to 25 in 2012. In addition, 5 permits for new commercial were issued in 2013, compared to 0 in 2012. In anticipation of a strengthening economy, the City took the lead on developing the infrastructure needed to service future growth on the 35E/County Road 14 interchange area. A major reconstruction of the interchange completed a multi-year improvement of County Road 14 from Highway 61 in Hugo, through Centerville, to 35W in Lino Lakes. The City portion of the cost for this bridge reconstruction project is being financed through Anoka County, with the City issuing an initial $4.26 million General Obligation Note to the County. Due to cost savings in this project the Note was amended to $3.695 million in 2011. With both major interstate interchanges complete, the City is preparing for development of several hundred acres in all quadrants of 35E/14. Interest in the commercial interchange has spurred the extension of Otter Lake Road North east of I-35E and planning for the extension of 21st Avenue west of I-35E, which will leave the City well poised to accommodate significant future industrial, commercial and residential development. Already the development of a McDonald’s restaurant is underway at CSAH 14 and Otter Lake Road. In addition, Metropolitan Transit has received approval to develop a Park and Ride at I35-E at CSAH 14 and 21st Avenue.