HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/07/2018 EDAC PacketCITY OF LINO LAKES
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
Thursday, June 7, 2018
8:00 A.M.
Community Room
AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES. May 3, 2018
3. DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Anoka County Economic Development Initiative
B. Private Activity Tax -Exempt Financing Guidelines
C. Project Updates
4. ADJOURN
CITY OF LINO LAKES
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
DATE: May 3, 2018
MEMBERS
PRESENT: Jim Schueller, Nathan Vojtech, Andrew Cravaro
Thomas Colgan, Patrick Kohler, Don Johnson, Michael Ruhland, Chad Wagner
MEMBERS
ABSENT: Julie Schwartz
OTHERS PRESENT: Mike Grochala, Mara Strand, Ryan Saltis
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
It was moved by Mr. Cravaro to approve the minutes from April 5, 2018 and passed
unanimously.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. 49/J Concept Plan — Lyngblomsten Senior Community
Mr. Grochala updated the board on the 49/J corner. Previous applicant recently pulled their
application. Mr. Grochala introduced representatives. Property is currently guided mixed use.
Jeff Heinecke, President/CEO, informed the board about Lyngblomsten operations.
Mr. Ruhland asked if Lyngblomsten hires or contracts employees. Mr. Heinecke hires employees
directly. Current retention rate is 94%.
Mr. Vojtech asked what the wait time is to use facility. Mr. Heinecke said the general care
facility runs at 95% capacity.
Mr. Vojtech asked about transitional care. Mr. Heinecke informed the board about available care
plans.
Mr. Kohler asked about Hospice. Mr. Heinecke said Lyngblomsten does not have a dedicated
hospice service but serves hospice patients.
Mr. Moore stated the facility focuses on small house hold feels.
Mr. Judd Fenlon, of Grand Real Estate Advisors, talked about the specifics of the 49/J property
and what is being proposed.
• Independent living apartments (100 units), assisted living apartments (50 units), long-
term skilled nursing.
Mr. Fenlon presented the site plan.
Mr. Cravaro asked about the increase of traffic. Mr. Judd stated a traffic study will take place.
About half of residents will have vehicles and average 1 resident per unit, unlike an apartment
building. Mr. Grochala stated there will be capacity improvements. Mr. Ruhland noted the
parking stalls and if there is underground parking. Mr. Rick Moore, Wold Architects, stated there
needs to be enough parking to allow for shift changes.
Mr. Ruhland asked about height of the building. Mr. Fenlon stated buildings are 1, 3, and 4
stories. Specifics will be worked out in the application and review process.
Mr. Ruhland asked about the anticipated staff needs. Mr. Heinecke stated about 30 staff. During
overlap shift (2:30-3:00) will be toward 60 staff members.
Mr. Moore presented building renderings — care facility, townhomes (rental and/or buy, 1350-
1750 square feet in size). Mr. Fenlon presented the reasoning behind the mixed use on the
property and demand.
Mr. Vojtech asked for clarification on HUD. Mr. Heinecke stated the current facility has HUD
housing but not looking as an option for this facility.
Mr. Ruhland stated the state average for skilled nursing is 90% and Lyngblomsten is running at
95%. Mr. Heinecke stated Anoka County is currently under bedded.
Mr. Ruhland asked what the occupancy rate needs to be at from a business perspective. Mr.
Heinecke stated 95% would be needed.
Mr. Wagner asked about the next closest community facility similar to what is presented. Mr.
Heinecke stated Presbyterian Homes in North Oaks.
Mr. Cravaro stated this is quality people who want to build a quality building. Feeling like we
are kicking the can down the road as far as the commercial building on the corner with no set
plans. Mr. Grochala stated the value of the projects have increased over time and will spur
interest on the corner.
The board voted unanimously yes to move project forward.
Chair Schueller requested and update at the June EDAC meeting.
B. Project Updates
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:22 A.M.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
AGENDA ITEM 3A
STAFF ORIGINATOR: Michael Grochala, Community Development Director
EDAC MEETING DATE: June 7, 2018
REQUEST: Anoka County Economic Development Initiative
Background
In December of 2017 Anoka County, in partnership with Connexus Energy and the North Metro
Chamber of Commerce, completed the "Economic Development Business Recruitment
Roadmap". The study was prepared by Ady Advantage, a national economic development and
site selection consultant. The study included a broad range of research and survey information
across Anoka County leading to compilation of a county wide action plan. The EDAC reviewed
the Executive Summary in February of 2018.
The overall purpose of the project is to provide a cohesive, unified economic development
strategy within Anoka County. As a result of the project, three areas of focus and goals were
identified to be achieved:
• Marketing and Differentiation: Address and work to change the perception of Anoka
County, among stakeholders, partners, developers, and potential talent, etc.
• Readiness: Ensure Anoka County is ready for development from both a talent and
product (sites and buildings) perspective, etc.
• Alignment/Regionalism: Clearly define roles within the county, as well as with regional
partners, as it relates to marketing, incentives, business retention, and expansion, etc.
Based on the recommendations of the plan a steering committee, executive team and subgroups,
(comprised of representatives from cities, Anoka County, and Metro North Chamber and
Connexus) have been created to implement the plan.
Ady Advantage has been retained to assist with the Marketing and Differentiation component of
the project. The objectives of this phase are to:
Create a county -wide economic development brand/logo
Create regional and target industries profiles
Create/develop an economic development website
Funding for the project is proposed to be shared by cities and partner organizations. Lino Lakes
share is approximately $1,200. Staff s perspective is that the program is an opportunity to draw
upon a larger resource for economic development assistance. Any marketing efforts that
increase visibility of Anoka County to prospective businesses aids our local efforts and increases
our opportunities.
Bruce Sayler, of Connexus Energy, will be present at the meeting to discuss the regional efforts,
process to date, and address any questions.
Requested EDAC Direction
Staff is seeking EDAC recommendation regarding participation in the project.
Attachments
1. Executive Summary, Economic Development Business Recruitment Roadmap
Anoka County, MN
Economic Development Business Recruitment Roadmap
December 18, 2017
Provided to:
Bruce Sayler
Principal - Community and Economic Development
Connexus Energy
1461 Ramsey Blvd. NW
Ramsey, MN 55303
763.323.2685 o/ 763.350.5119 m
Bruce.sayler@connexusenergy.com
Advantage
� J
Provided by:
Janet Ady
President and CEO
Ady Advantage
301 S. Blount Street, Suite 103
Madison, WI 53703
608.663.9218 o/608.345.2510 m
iady@adyadvantage.com
Table of Contents
Section 1: Executive Summary
Section 2: Introduction
Section 3: The Anoka County Regional Economy
Section 4: Site Visit Analysis
Section 5: Stakeholder & Employer Input
Section 6: Target Industry Analysis
Section 7: Regional and Target Industry Positioning
Section 8: Goals for the Future
Section 9: Best Practices
3
13
16
31
43
55
172
185
187
Section 10: Economic Development Business Recruitment Roadmap 194
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
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SECTION 1: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•AAdvantage
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
Executive Summary
Ady Advantage was retained by Connexus Energy to create an economic development business recruitment roadmap. The following graphic
shows the various elements to this project.
PHASE 1: DISCOVER��
• Project Initiation Teleconference
• Desk Research/Economic Base Analysis
• Site Visit and Stakeholder Interviews
• Target Industry Analysis
• Regional Positioning Statement
• Target Industry Positioning
• Initial Report
PHASE 2: DISTILL FAI
• Vision and Goals Session
• Gap Analysis
• Best Practices Review
PHASE 3: DO
• Economic Development Strategy with
Implementation Plan
• Final Presentation
This process consisted of on -site qualitative research with stakeholders and employers, desk research on the Anoka County economy and target
industries, and the creation of positioning points for the region and for each target industry. The following pages serve as a summary of these
findings.
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Executive Summary
STAKEHOLDER AND EMPLOYER INPUT
During the on -site visit Ady Advantage conducted interviews with nearly 20 stakeholders to gain input. The stakeholders included a mix of local
businesses, local economic developers, educational institutions and workforce representatives, real estate representatives, etc. These
individuals provided input on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in the region. The following key themes emerged:
• Positive perceptions of the county revolve around doing business in the county and quality of life. Proximity to Minneapolis/St. Paul is a
benefit to businesses as well as residents from a quality of life perspective. Other business advantages include supply chain opportunities,
work ethic of employees and business engagement in the community. From a quality of life perspective, perceptions are that Anoka County
has a variety of housing options available and good public schools. Many of the communities are also perceived to be safe with low crime and
low poverty.
• The biggest negative perception of the county is that anything north of Minneapolis/St. Paul is extremely remote and rural, and that there is
only blue collarjobs in this area.
• Talent is currently one of the biggest challenges for local employers, both attracting and retaining talent. The local educational institutions in
the region have done a good job of responding to employers' needs, however, employers are competing for labor with Minneapolis/St. Paul.
• The biggest opportunities that stakeholders see for the county include changing the negative perceptions of the county, continuing to
improve transportation infrastructure and developing clarity and cohesiveness between the cities and the county.
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
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P�
Executive Summary
ANOKA COUNTY'S REGIONAL POSITIONING
The following asset maps depict key business costs and conditions and their importance in a business location decision, as well as how well
Anoka County does on each factor. Essentially the assets in the upper right hand quadrant become the county's positioning and the assets in the
upper left hand quadrant become the gaps that need to be improved, if in Anoka County's control.
GENERAL CONDITIONS ASSET MAP
GENERAL BUSINESS COSTS ASSET MAP Availabilityof
Availability of Availability of Workforce Productivity &
Low -skilled Skilled/Advanced Low -Skilled LaborSemi-Skilled Labor
Labor Cost High -skilled Professional/Technical Work Ethic
Labor Cost Labor Cost Labor
Gas Cost Electric Cost
Manufacturing
Tax Burden
Z
O
Sales Tax H
U
W
Incentives a
N
N
W
Z
Property Tax H
m
Payroll Costs O
W
Cost of U
Living ZQ
H
O
a
Hwy Access
Buildings Sites Air Access
4 Year Ed. 2 Year Ed.
Attainment HSAttainment Attainment
Diversity of Access to Pop.
Higher Ed. Re Enviro
Rail Access g• Tech and
Community
Higher Ed. Student Colleges
Pipeline
Port Access
Population
Growth
Natural Disaster
Risk
ANOKA COUNTY REGION COMPETITIVENESS ANOKA COUNTY REGION COMPETITIVENESS
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
Executive Summary
TARGET INDUSTRY ANALYSIS
In order to determine which specific industries drive Anoka County's economy, a 6-digit NAICS code analysis was conducted on a number of
industry groups. After analyzing and screening these industries, we came up with the following recommended target industries for Anoka
County:
Target Industry
Subsectors of Focus
Comments
Medical Device Manufacturing
' The medical device supply chain is well developed in the region.
and Related Industries
' Technologic advances in medical devices are creating opportunities for metal and
advanced materials fabrication and precision instrument manufacturing.
• Plastics manufacturing technologies are well established in the region
Plastic Product Manufacturing
• Producers are aligned with both advanced devices (e.g. medical devices) and
commodity parts (e.g. food machinery, farm equipment, transportation equipment)
• Instrumentation and measuring devices are critical to manufacturing precision
Instrument Manufacturing
products including medical devices.
Light Manufacturing
• There is growing demand for precision instruments.
• The region has a strong tradition for precision machining and the fabrication of metal
Metal Working, Machining and
and other specialized materials.
Specialized Materials
• Advanced materials, such as carbon fiber, are growing in importance within the global
economy.
• Minneapolis/St. Paul region has a long history around innovation and manufacturing
Chemical Manufacturing
of adhesives and other industrial supply chain specialty chemicals.
• Advances in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, coating technologies are present in the
region and align with Anoka County skill sets.
Heavy Manufacturing
Machinery Manufacturing
' This includes machinery related to existing industries in the region including food
processing and material handling equipment, and farm machinery.
Specialized Distribution and
' The big box -type fulfillment centers are more likely to locate south of the city for better
Distribution and Trucking
Warehousing
access to market; however, Anoka County has seen some small specialty distribution
going on in the region and smaller trucking operations.
• Data centers are big users of electricity and Anoka County has the infrastructure to
Data Centers
Smaller data centers
support this. However, this industry also requires fiber access, which is only available
in some parts of the county. Recruitment should be limited to only those areas.
Medical services
• Some available buildings for this; however, there will need to be a better inventory of
Back Office
Call centers
these buildings in the future in order for Anoka County to realistically recruit this
industry.
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
Executive Summary
GOALS AND VISIONING
The goals for the future were determined and thoroughly discussed during a Goals and Visioning work session on Wednesday, October 11. To
ensure that stakeholder input was significantly considered in this process, Connexus Energy invited a number of key stakeholders.
Address and work to change the
perception of Anoka County,
among stakeholders, partners,
developers, potential talent, etc.
Ensure Anoka County is
ready for development from
both a talent and product
(sites and buildings)
perspective.
T
Clearly define roles within
the county, as well as with
regional partners, as it
relates to marketing,
incentives, business
retention and expansion,
etc.
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
Executive Summary
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The following strategies were developed to help Anoka County meet its three goals, as outlined on the previous page. The strategies fall into the
categories of alignment/regionalism, readiness and marketing. Tactics within each strategy can be found in the final section of this report -
Economic Development Business Recruitment Roadmap.
Alignment/Regionalism IN
OF ]I
Goal #1: Address and work to Goal #2: Ensure Anoka
Goal #3: Clearly define roles
within the county, as well as
change the perception of Anoka County is ready for
with regional partners, as it
County, among stakeholders, development from both a
relates to marketing,
partners, developers, potential talent and product (sites and
incentives, business retention
talent, etc. buildings) perspective.
and expansion, etc.
Articulate roles and responsibilities of Anoka
County, Connexus Energy, and each
local/regional economic development partner to
X
XXX
help avoid duplication of efforts, identify gaps,
and reach consensus on project coordination
protocols.
Communicate regularly with economic
development partners and other stakeholders
about economic development initiatives,
X
XX
business news, county -wide successes, and
quality of life improvements.
XXX: Primary effect on goal XX: Direct effect on goal X: Indirect effect on goal
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
Executive Summary
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES (CONT'D)
Readiness
Goal #1: Address and work to
Goal #2: Ensure Anoka Goal #3: Clearly define roles
change the perception of Anoka
County is ready for within the county, as well as
County, among stakeholders,
development from both a with regional partners, as it
partners, developers, potential
talent and product (sites and relates to marketing,
incentives, business retention
talent, etc.
buildings) perspective.
and expansion, etc.
Product Readiness
Ensure sites and buildings are listed in LOIS or
another sites and buildings database and
X
XXX
X
information is accurate and up-to-date.
Determine the next sites/buildings for short-
term, medium -term and long-term development
XXX
X
that meet the needs of the target industries (as
identified in this report)
Develop and maintain relationships with local
XX
XX
developers and real estate brokers.
Re-evaluate the city and county incentive
XXX
X
policies to ensure they align with future goals.
Talent Readiness
Continue to explore what Greater MSP is doing
XXX
X
with regard to talent, and participate selectively.
Identify any gaps related to the Anoka County
talent strategies and develop approaches to
X
XXX
address.
XXX: Primary effect on goal XX: Direct effect on goal X: Indirect effect on goal
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Executive Summary
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES (CONT'D)
Marketing/Diff r n i
tion J F1
Goal #1: Address and work to
Goal #2: Ensure Anoka Goal #3: Clearly define roles
change the perception of Anoka
County is ready for within the county, as well as
County, among stakeholders,
development from both a with regional partners, as it
partners, developers, potential
talent and product (sites and relates to marketing,
incentives, business retention
talent, etc.
buildings) perspective.
and expansion, etc.
All Audiences
Using this economic development plan as a base
of information, outline the key assets of the
XXX
X
region from both a talent and business
retention/development perspective.
Communicate a consistent county -wide
XXX
XX
economic development brand.
Internal Stakeholders
Market the key assets of Anoka County to
internal stakeholders to ensure that everyone is
XXX
X
communicating a consistent message about the
county and region.
Partners
Market the key assets of Anoka County to
partners so that they are aware of the unique
XXX
assets of the county, as well as the types of
projects Anoka County is best suited for.
XXX: Primary effect on goal XX: Direct effect on goal X: Indirect effect on goal
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
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Executive Summary
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES (CONT'D)
Marketing/Differentiation Ed
Goal #1: Address and work to
Goal #2: Ensure Anoka
Goal #3: Clearly define roles within
change the perception of Anoka
County is ready for
the county, as well as with
County, among stakeholders,
development from both a
regional partners, as it relates to
partners, developers, potential
talent and product (sites and
marketing, incentives, business
talent, etc.
buildings) perspective.
retention and expansion, etc.
Existing Businesses
Help existing businesses continue to grow in Anoka
XXX
XX
County.
Ensure existing businesses are aware of local,
regional and state programs/initiatives that would
XXX
X
benefit their business.
Developers/Real Estate Brokers
Market the key assets of Anoka County to
local/regional developers and real estate brokers
so they are aware of the S&B product in the county,
XXX
as well as the target industries that are best suited
for Anoka County.
Site Selectors
jr
Market the key assets of Anoka County to site
selectors who work in the target industries
XXX
identified in this report.
Target Industries
Communicate the benefits of doing business in
7
Anoka County to companies within the specific
XXX
target industries identified in this report.
Identify companies in the recommended target
XXX
XX
industries to attract to Anoka County
XXX: Primary effect on goal XX: Direct effect on goal X: Indirect effect on goal
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
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Site Visit Analysis - Clearwater Creek Business Park - Lino Lakes
Strengths
• Mix of sites apparently n
development
• Build -to -suit properties
N. are needed in the mai
• New Main St/1-35E inter(
improved 21st Street N.
Weaknesses
• Possible presence of we -
could limit developmen,
No asking price provide(
Limited information on
parcel
Unattractive industrial sLura%e
operations on 21st Street North
are incompatible with quality
development
Voltedge, Inc. dba Ady Advantage 1 301 S. Blount St, Suite 103 1 Madison, WI 53703 1 608.663.9218 1 AdyAdvantage.com
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
AGENDA ITEM 3B
STAFF ORIGINATOR: Michael Grochala
EDAC MEETING DATE: June 7, 2018
REQUEST: Private Activity Tax -Exempt Financing Guidelines
BACKGROUND
Love To Grow On, a Minnesota nonprofit corporation, who operates early childhood education
centers in the City of Lexington and the City of Circle Pines, received approval to construct a
new facility located in the City of Lino Lakes.
As part of their financing Love To Grown On requested City assistance to issue tax-exempt
conduit bonds. Under state statutes that authorize these bonds, the city issues the bonds and
loans the proceeds to the private entity. In actuality, the loan is handled entirely by a separate
bond trustee and the city has almost no role in payment or administration. While creating no risk
for the City, issuance allows the private entity to obtain lower interest rates.
The City was not able to provide the conduit bonds for this project due to other proposed debt
issuance for street reconstruction. However, the City of Columbia Heights issued a revenue
note, which is allowed under state statutes, subject to the local city's approval. The City Council
approved the issuance at the May 29, 2018 council meeting.
As part of the discussion the City Council requested EDAC review of the city's policy and
consideration, not only as an economic development tool, but also a potential revenue source to
assist with economic development activities. While limited to non -profits, affordable housing
and some manufacturing facilities, the city does charge a fee for issuance. The City currently
charges a one-time administrative fee equal to 1% of the bond issue amount.
EDAC CONSIDERATION
Staff is requesting EDAC discussion and recommendations regarding the use of conduit debt.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Conduit Debt summary, League of Minnesota Cities
2. Tax Exempt Bond Guidelines, adopted 2005
1
RELEVANT LINKS:
Note that bond investors have very little interest in how the proceeds are
used, if the bonds are general obligations. Therefore, the classification by
use of proceeds is mostly relevant from a standpoint of city policy and
financial management.
IV. Bonds by user
The most commonly -issued bonds represent borrowing by a city to finance
public assets —the city itself is the "user" of the proceeds. But Minnesota
law authorizes cities to issue bonds where the proceeds are actually used
by private parties. These bonds are referred to in most cases as "private
See Section v111-B
activity bonds" —a name derived from federal tax law. Private activity
Governmental versus private
activity.
bonds fall into two major categories, discussed in turn below.
A. Conduit bonds
Minn. Stat. §§ 469.152 to
Unlike almost all other bonds, "conduit bonds" are initiated by and issued
469.1651.
Minn. Stat. ch. 462C.
for the benefit of private entities. Under the state statutes that authorize
these bonds, the city issues the bonds and loans the proceeds to the private
entity. That private entity repays the loan in an amount sufficient to pay
principal and interest on the bonds. As a practical matter, the loan is
(normally) handled entirely by a separate bond trustee (usually the trust
division of a bank). After the bonds are issued, the city has almost no role
in payment or administration of the bonds.
The bonds are revenue bonds —the city does not pay debt service or any
other cost related to the transaction. As such, the bonds have no effect on
the issuing city's credit rating and are not counted against any statutory
limitations on borrowing. When the bonds are sold, investors look only to
the credit of the private borrower (and any related private security, such as
mortgages and guarantees). While the city council must approve issuance
of the bonds and all the bond documents, the transaction is largely handled
See section x Participants
by the private borrower and the underwriter that usually serves as the
in a bona sale.
initial purchaser of the bonds. The bond counsel for conduit bonds may be
the city's regular bond counsel, or may be retained by the private entity
(this is a matter of city policy and practice).
The types of private activity bonds are governed primarily by federal tax
law. Congress in effect created this kind of bond to provide tax-exempt
(and therefore lower cost) borrowing to certain favored activities carried
out by private entities.
Much of today's tax law regarding these bonds originated with the Tax
Reform Act of 1986, which sharply narrowed the scope of permissible
private activity bonds (previously known as "industrial development
revenue bonds" or "IDR bonds").
League of Minnesota Cities Handbook for Minnesota Cities 10/26/2017
Debt and Borrowing Chapter 23 1 Page 8
RELEVANT LINKS:
The three most common conduit bonds in Minnesota are:
• Qualified 501(c)(3) bonds, where the user of bond proceeds is a
nonprofit 501(c)(3) entity. Typical examples include nonprofits that
own nursing homes, hospitals, senior and other affordable housing, and
schools (from K-12 to college). But any nonprofit with 501(c)(3) status
is eligible for this type of financing, so bonds have been issued for
entities as diverse as the YMCA to Minnesota Public Radio.
• Housing revenue bonds (exempt facilities), where the user of bond
proceeds is a private for -profit entity that builds housing intended for
occupancy by persons or families who meet specified low-income
guidelines.
• Small issue manufacturing bonds, where the user of the proceeds is a
manufacturing business that constructs manufacturing facilities that
meet certain federal requirements.
There are other less common conduit bonds that cities may occasionally
encounter, but the three listed above represent the bulk of this bond type.
B. Tax increment and abatement private activity
bonds
Minn. Stat. § 469.178. Minn. The other category of common private activity bonds are those issued in
Stat. § 469.1814.
the context of economic development and redevelopment. Cities may issue
See Handbook, community bonds secured by tax increments (all the increased taxes in a TIF district or
Development and
Redevelopment. portion thereof) or abatements (the taxes imposed by a participating taxing
jurisdiction, usually just the issuing city).
The city may be the "user" of these bonds, for example, when proceeds
finance public streets or other public infrastructure needed for a private
development project. But bond proceeds maybe delivered to a private
developer to finance aspects of the private development permitted under
law —such as land acquisition, excavation, and other eligible private
improvements. In those cases, the private developer becomes the "user."
In most cases, where the private developer is the user, the issuing city will
also require the developer to provide additional security, such as an
agreement to maintain a minimum value, or a guarantee to cover debt
service if tax increments or abatements fall short of expectations. The
result is that these bonds are treated as "private activity bonds," and must
be issued as taxable bonds.
By contrast, conduit bonds are tax exempt despite the fact that they are
issued for the benefit of, and secured by, a private entity —but only
because the private entity accomplishes some public purpose identified by
Congress in federal tax law.
League of Minnesota Cities Handbook for Minnesota Cities 10/26/2017
Debt and Borrowing Chapter 23 1 Page 9
Exhibit A
LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA
PRIVATE ACTIVITY
TAX-EXEMPT FINANCING GUIDELINES
AUGUST 8, 2005
Lino Lakes, Minnesota
Private Activity
Tax -Exempt Financing Guidelines
-_-
GENERAL
Under the Minnesota Municipal Industrial development Act, Minnesota Statutes, Sections
469.152 to 469.1651 (the "Industrial Development Act"), the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota has
authority to issue revenue bonds or notes to attract or promote economically sound industry and
commerce to the City, including the development of facilities by qualified 501(c)(3)
organizations.
Under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 462C (the "Housing Act") the City is authorized to issue
housing revenue bonds to finance multi -family residential housing projects for low and moderate
income persona and elderly persons.
The City Council is aware that such financing for certain private activities may be of benefit to
the City and will consider requests for tax exempt financing subject to these Guidelines. The
City Council considers tax exempt financing to be a privilege, not a right.
It is the judgment of the City Council that tax exempt financing is to be used on a selective basis
to encourage certain development that offers a benefit to the City as a whole, including
employment and housing opportunities. It is the applicant's responsibility to demonstrate the
benefit to the City. The applicant should understand that although approval may have been
granted by the City for the issuance of financing for a similar project or a similar debt structure
that is not a basis upon which approval will be granted. Each application will be judged on the
merits of the project as it relates to the public purposes of the Housing Act or the Industrial
Development Act and the benefit to the City at the time the request for financing is being
considered.
PART II
GUIDELINES
The City Council will consider tax exempt financing for manufacturing and health
care facilities, and other facilities operated by qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, under
the Industrial Development Act; and housing projects under the Housing Act. An
applicant for tax-exempt financing pursuant to the Industrial Development Act must
submit to the City the application contained in Part IV of these Guidelines.
2. The project must be a positive benefit to the City. The project must be of a nature
that the City wishes to attract, or an existing business which the City wishes to retain
or expand within the City, considering employment opportunities, incentive for further
development, impact on City services, and support for the industrial, commercial or
health care operations currently located in the City. A housing project must provide
significant housing opportunities for low and moderate income persons or the elderly.
3. The City Council will, if requested, grant an applicant a pre -application review. The
purpose of the pre -application review is to inform applicants of the possibility of
rejection or the possible basis for such a rejection. The fact that the project is not
rejected at the pre -application stage is not to be construed as approval of the project
or as an indication that the project will be approved upon formal request to the
Council. Requests for tax-exempt financing may be rejected by the City whether or
not the project was submitted to a pre -application review and regardless of the
outcome or recommendation of that pre -application review.
A request for pre -application review must be in writing, addressed to the City Finance
Director, and set forth the name of the project, the type of project intended and the
name, address and telephone number of the person who will be representing the
applicant at the pre -application review, together with such additional information as
the applicant desires to submit.
The City will appoint bond counsel for the bond issue, which will normally be the
City's regularly retained bond counsel.
4. Pursuant to the Industrial Development Act and the Housing Act, consideration of an
application for tax exempt financing must be done at a public hearing held by the
Board.
5. The City is to be reimbursed and held harmless for and from any out-of-pocket
expenses related to the tax-exempt financing including, but not limited to, legal fees,
financial advisor fees, bond counsel fees, the City's expenses in connection with the
application, and any deposits or application fees required under state law in order to
secure allocation of bonding authority. A non-refundable application fee in the
amount of $2,500 must be included with the submission of the application.
Prior to closing and delivery of the bonds for the project, the applicant must pay to
the City, or commit to pay, as the case may be, a one-time administrative fee equal
to 1 % of bond issue amount. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the
administrative fees required by this paragraph will be reduced to the extent needed
to ensure that the fee does not affect the tax-exempt status of the bonds under
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, amended and related regulations.
6. Should the tax exempt financing request cause the City's total bonding for the year to
exceed $10,000,000 in a year that the City would otherwise be eligible to issue bank
qualified bonds, (bonds with tax incentives to banks), any interest rate differential
between bank qualified and non -bank qualified bonds shall be estimated and the
difference paid by the borrower. If the City would have exceeded this amount
without the tax-exempt issue, no differential would be calculated or paid by the
borrower.
7. Applications for financing must be made on the forms attached to these Guidelines.
In addition, the applicant must furnish a description of the project, together with a
brief description of applicant and the proposed financing in such form as required at
the time of application.
8. The City may, in its sole discretion, withdraw its preliminary approval of a project any
time if in its judgment the purposes of the Act will not be served by going forward
with the project and it's financing.
9. The City may, in its sole discretion, reduce the administrative fee in cases where the
borrower's request is related to a partnership with the City and provides a public
service benefit to the community as a whole.
PART III
MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS
Ratings. The City will give its most favorable consideration to proposed tax-exempt
bond issues that have the same credit rating as the City's obligations by Moody's
Investment Service or Standard & Poor's Corporation. Issues carrying lower ratings
or non -rated issues may be sold only to institutional or other investors on a private
placement basis and must be in denominations of at least $100,000. The City
Council may depart from this guideline when, in its judgment, the project is of a level
of merit and public purpose to justify the departure; and in case of such a departure,
the City Council must state its reasons therefore in the resolution awarding the sale
of bonds.
2. Refundings. The City Council will normally approve the refunding of a tax-exempt
issue but only upon a showing by the applicant of (i) substantial debt service savings,
(ii) the removal of bond covenants significantly impairing the financial feasibility of the
project, or (iii) both (i) and (ii). In the case of refunding of bonds for which the
administrative fee listed in paragraph 6 of Part II have been paid in full, no new
administrative fees are required; but the non-refundable application fee must be paid
together with all City expenses in excess of that fee. If any fees related to the initial
bond issue have not been paid, such fees must be paid in full prior to closing the
refunding bonds.
3. Subsequent Proceedings. Where changes to the underlying documents or credit
facilities of outstanding bond issues are to be made and require Council action
(including changes that are a "deemed reissuance" under Internal Revenue Service
regulation), no administrative fee is charged but a non-refundable fee of $2,000 must
be deposited with the City to cover administrative costs. No formal application form
is required
4. Issue by Another Political Subdivision. The City will consider requests for tax exempt
financing of projects in the City by other political subdivisions. In these cases the
non-refundable application fee must be paid and all procedures through the approval
of the preliminary resolution followed. No administrative fee is charged. At the
Council's discretion, all or part of the application may be waived if there are offsetting
benefits resulting from this financing.
5. City Contact. Initial contacts about tax exempt financing are made by contacting:
City Finance Director
City of Lino Lakes
600 Town Center Parkway
Lino Lakes, MN 55014
(651) 982-2410
6. Deadlines. The City Council conducts all tax-exempt financing matters at regularly
scheduled City Council meetings held on the second and fourth Mondays of each
month. Documents for City Council consideration must be at the City office no later
than the Friday 10 days prior to next regular Council meeting at which the matter is
to be considered. In the case of a publicly offered bond issue, the documents, when
submitted, may specify a maximum price and maximum effective interest rate if
prices and rates have not yet been established.
PART IV
CITY OF LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA
APPLICATION FOR TAX EXEMPT FINANCING
(Commercial, Industrial, Educational or Health Care)
1. APPLICANT
a. Business Name —
b. Business Address —
c. Business Form (corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, etc.)
d. Authorized Representative —
e. Principal contact person and telephone number —
2. PURPOSE OF REQUESTED FINANCING —
a. New Facility (describe) —
b. Expansion (describe) —
c. Refunding (attach explanatory letter)
3. GIVE BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF NATURE OF BUSINESS, PRINCIPAL
PRODUCTS, ETC.
4. ESTIMATED SOURCES AND USESPROJECT COSTS: (Not required for refunding)
SOURCES:
Bond proceeds $
Cash
Other Loans
Total Sources
USES:
Land $
Building
Equipment
Architectural, Engineering
Cost of Issuance
Capitalized Interest
Other
Total Uses
5. TOTAL FINANCING REQUESTED $ ( % of project
costs)
6. TYPE OF FINANCING PROPOSED:
Bonds Tax -Exempt Mortgage
Expected Term of Financing Years
Security:
Mortgage
Letter of Credit
Guaranty (third party)
Guaranty (personal) _
Unsecured
Other (specify)
7. BUSINESS PROFILE: (Not required for refunding)
a. Is the business located within City Boundaries?
b. Number of employees within the City of Lino Lakes geographic boundaries
i. Before this project —
ii. After this project —
c. Approximate annual sales —
d. Length of time in business —
e. Length of time in City
f. Do you have business operations in other locations? If so, where?
8. NAMES OF:
a. Underwriter (name and contact person) —
b. Corporate Counsel —
c. Underwriter's Counsel —
9. WHAT IS YOUR TARGET DATE FOR:
a. Construction start —
b. Construction completion —
10. ATTACHMENTS:
a. Project description materials —
b. Draft resolution calling for public hearing —
c. Notice of public hearing —
d. Draft of preliminary resolution
e. Draft application to Department of Trade and Economic Development —
necessary attachments
f. Financial feasibility letter —
g. Preliminary bond counsel opinion —
h. Initial filing fee (to be set by City Council) —
i. Indemnification Letter of Agreement
The applicant further states that it has been furnished a copy of the City of Lino Lakes's Private
Activity Tax Exempt Financing Guidelines and is aware of its content and agrees to be bound by
its terms and the terms of the indemnification letter.
r:39
DATE
For further information, contact:
City Finance Director
City of Lino Lakes
600 Town Center Parkway
Lino Lakes, MN 55014
(651) 982-2410
Applicant
PART VI
INDEMNIFICATION LETTER OF AGREEMENT
City of Lino Lakes Mayor
And Members of the Council
RE: Application of
Lino Lakes
for Tax Exempt Revenue Bond Financing by the City of
Dear Mayor and City Council Members:
This letter of agreement is given by , a under the
laws of Minnesota ("Applicant") as required by the City of Lino Lakes in connection with its
consideration of an application for tax-exempt revenue bond financing for the project described
in the application.
Applicant hereby covenants, warrants and agrees as follows:
Applicant agrees to pay or reimburse the City for any and all costs and expenses
which the City may incur in connection with its consideration of the project and the
granting of tax-exempt revenue bond financing therefore, whether or not the project
is preliminarily approved by the City, whether or not the project is approved by the
Sate of Minnesota, whether or not revenue bond financing is finally approved by the
City, whether or not the bonds are issued and sold, and whether or not the project is
carried to completion.
2. Applicant agrees to indemnify and hold the City, its officers, employees and agents
harmless against any and all losses, claims, damages, expenses or liabilities,
including attorneys fees incurred in their defense, to which the City, its officers,
employees and agents may become subject in connection with the City's
consideration, issuance or sale of the bonds for Applicant's project and the carrying
out of the transactions contemplated by this agreement and any resolutions adopted,
or agreements executed by the City in connection with the issuance of its bonds for
this project.
3. Applicant here by releases the City, its officers, agents and employees from any
claims, causes of action, losses, damages, or liabilities which it may have against the
City, its officers, agents, and employees or which it may incur in connection with: the
City's consideration of the application for industrial development revenue bond
financing for Applicant's project; the failure of the City, in its discretion, to issue tax
exempt revenue bonds for Applicant's project; the issuance and sale of the bonds;
the construction of the project; or any other matter or thing of any type or nature
whatsoever which may arise in connection with the foregoing.
4. Applicant is aware of the City's application and administrative fee structure for tax
exempt financing and agrees and covenants that all such fees will be paid in the
amount and at the times required.
Dated:
(Applicant)
M
Its