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EDC Minutes November 16, 2007 Page 2 that the December EDC meeting be cancelled to allow the EDC enough time to provide comments (also because there does not seem to be any pressing issues for the EDC to consider in December). Commissioner Meehlhause reminded the EDC that he represents the EDC on the Comprehensive Plan task force. He added that the task force has reviewed Chapter 4 and there have not been significant changes thus far. It was of EDC consensus that comments be provided to staff regarding the entire Economic Development component (pages 90-95) upon receiving the comparison from staff. Staff will then provide a summary of the comments at the next meeting. It was also noted that additional changes may arise during the EDC’s January 2008 goals discussion. 6. REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS Chairperson Helgemoe reported on a Twin Cities North Chamber event that he attended recently at the Janes Field (Anoka County) Airport regarding a new banquet/conference facility/restaurant that may be constructed there. The building will be 50,000 square feet and worth $4 million. The project’s investor group still needs to raise $900,000 in stock to fully fund the project. The project has been “in the works” for a couple of years. Commissioner Field also attended the event. Commissioner Johnson mentioned that the Schwan’s Super Rink facility at the National Sports Center in Blaine will be expanding to include a hotel/water park/restaurant. She also thanked Commissioner Jaker for his years of service on the EDC. Since it appears that the December EDC meeting will be cancelled, today is Commissioner Jaker’s final EDC meeting because his term expires in December. Commissioner Jaker stated that it has been an honor and privilege to serve on the EDC. 7. REPORTS OF STAFF A. Premium Stop Redevelopment: Economic Development Specialist Heidi Steinmetz stated that the EDA approved a resolution this past Monday regarding a six-month Preliminary Development Agreement with Master Development, which allows the developer exclusive negotiating rights to assemble a project on the former Premium Stop site. Commissioner Belting added that he is very impressed with the developer’s credentials. Chairperson Helgemoe inquired of Director Ericson whether or not the Robert’s parcel is involved in a forclosure process. Director Ericson stated “yes” and that he has placed a phone call to confirm that the redemption period has expired. Commissioner Meehlhause inquired about the large pipes that are currently located on the property. Director Ericson responded that the City is undergoing a project with Xcel Energy to replace the 4-inch gas main that runs through the City with an 8-inch line. Commissioner Johnson, employed by Xcel, added that the 4-inch line is 40 years old and that it’s simply time for an upgrade. B. Silver View Plaza: Ms. Steinmetz reported that staff met with the property manager this week and that it appears that until the City sets forth a redevelopment concept or vision for the property that the property owner, Kraus-Anderson, will be taking a “wait and see” approach regarding the future of the property.