HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/11/2015 EDAC Minutes 1
CITY OF LINO LAKES
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
DATE: June 11, 2015
MEMBERS
PRESENT: Nathan Vojtech, Lou Masonick, Chad Wagner.
MEMBERS
ABSENT: Thomas Colgan, Rebecca Glewwe, Tami Wier, Don Johnson, Julie Schwartz.
OTHERS PRESENT: Michael Grochala, Kirsten Barsness
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
It was moved by N. Vojteck to approve the minutes of March 5, 2015. The motion was
seconded by C. Wagner and passed unanimously.
FIRE STATION UPDATE
L. Masonick requested an update on the construction of the Fire Station due to a recent article in
the Quad Press. Mr. Grochala stated that there appeared to be some inaccuracies within the
article. Specifically, Mr. Grochala noted that use of Lease/Revenue Bonds for construction of
public facilities is common. City Hall, constructed in 1998 used the same financing. He also
stated that the use of Lease/Revenue Bonds does not increase costs 10 to 15 percent as claimed
in the paper. Cost differences are primarily the interest rate difference compared to issuance of
general obligation bonds. L Masonick suggested that additional information be provided to
residents to clarify this issue.
BUSINESS RETENTION & EXPANSION PROGRAM
Mr. Grochala introduced Kirsten Barsness to discuss next steps in the development of a Business
Retention Program. Ms. Barsness provided an overview of the work plan and identified two
steps in the process. First, City needs to decide the scope of the program including, identifying
what businesses, who will reach them and what will be provide. Secondly, we need to develop
the program and provide training for those involved.
Committee members discussed the value of maintaining and expanding communication with
local businesses. Mr. Grochala stated that he would work with Ms. Barsness to develop a work
plan and cost estimate.
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PROJECT UPDATES
Mr. Grochala provided an overview of ongoing projects including updates regarding the new fire
station and upcoming housing developments. Staff is working with the owner of the 49 Club to
demolish the building. The Watermark project will likely submit an application for preliminary
approvals this fall. Street reconstruction in the Shenandoah area is underway. Fiesta Cancun
recently opened at the former Bobby & Steve’s location by the 35E/Main Street interchange.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 AM.