HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/05/2019 EDAC Minutes
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CITY OF LINO LAKES
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
MEETING DATE: September 5, 2019
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Schueller, Andrew Cravero, Don Johnson, Chad Wagner, Thomas
Colgan, Julie Jeffrey-Schwartz, Nathan Vojtech, Patrick Kohler
MEMBERS ABSENT:, Michael Ruhland
OTHERS PRESENT: Mike Grochala, Mara Strand, Katharine Dowlding
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
It was moved by Mr. Cravero to approve the minutes from July 2, 2019. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Johnson, passing unanimously.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Board Member Strengths and Experiences.
Mr. Schueller stated that he wanted to discuss members strengths and experiences to assist
businesses within the community. He noted, however, that given the upcoming election and
possible new council he requested that the item be tabled until the first of the new year.
Board members noted that finding employees seems to be one of the most difficult issues
facing local businesses. Opportunities to attract employees should be investigated.
Transportation was noted as one of the biggest problems. Mr. Grochala noted that Anoka
County hosts monthly job fairs that employers are welcome to attend.
B. Business Retention Expansion (BRE) Program Visits
Mr. Grochala stated that several businesses responded on the BRE survey that they would
welcome a meeting with the City to discuss their operation. He explained staff will be
setting up meetings in October and November. It was suggested that this would be a good
opportunity for committee member outreach by accompanying staff on these meetings. A
sign-up sheet for EDAC members interested in participation will be made and distributed.
C. Lyngblomsten TIF recap.
Mr. Grochala provided an update on the Lyngblomsten Tax Increment Financing request.
He stated that the City Council approved the request detailed in the staff report. A total of
$3.6 million will be provided. The TIF note is expected to be paid off within 7.5 years
based on an initial taxable market value of $33,000,000.
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Lyngblomsten is working on final plan submittal and is hoping to break ground in late fall.
D. Project Updates
Mr. Grochala provided an update on the Minnesota Tech Corridor. He noted that it has
grown from a marketing stand point and there is a lot of interest. The City has worked out
partnerships with electric company and property owner to share site investigation costs. ,
The City is doing preliminary work regarding how the site will be served by utilities
He also noted the following:
There is pavement in Watermark, small utilities are being worked on, and permits will start
to be issued.
Construction will begin on the model homes in Eastside Villas.
Nature’s Refuge is pending City Council approval.
All Season’s Rental is under construction.
Otter Lake Animal Care Center expansion is going to City Council.
Main Street Shoppes 2nd Addition is progressing.
Hy-Vee pulled out of a purchase agreement for a property on the south side of the City.
A study was completed on Centerville and County Road J and identified a potential
roundabout. Centerville Road and Ash Street was identified as a problem. Discussion
regarding on and off ramps at the County Road J/35E interchange is in progress with
Ramsey County, Anoka County, Mn/DOT and local property owners.
An open house for Birch Street will take place this fall. The road was paved this year,
roundabouts are going to be developed, and some school entrances will be relocated.
A contract was awarded for water tower #3 and will be located near the fire station.
The City is still working on the well #7 project, which would be the restoration of the old
house. The test well tested well but at this point the City cannot get a new well due to the
White Bear Lake case. An update on the White Bear Lake case was discussed.
Saddle Club 4th Addition will connect Foxborough and Saddle Club.
Progress is being made on Lino Lakes Mini Storage.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 A.M.