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Commissioner Welsch supports the concept. He believes that there is a larger gap <br /> between lower and higher incomes these days and that affordable housing can be very <br /> • nice and respectable. There is more and more of a demand for this housing as the gap <br /> continues to increase. He would like to see assurances that if the new housing is <br /> approved that the rehab also continues and that it would not be allowed to deteriorate. <br /> Motion/Second: Carlson/Welsch moved to support the general concept of the development as it <br /> pertains to the rehabilitation of Red Oak Apartments and the construction of 26 new <br /> townhomes but that there is a lack of financial information and analysis to support a <br /> recommendation for tax increment financing assistance at this time. <br /> Motion Carried 6 ayes 0 nays <br /> Staff was directed to provide more financial information and analysis and more <br /> information regarding the management company. <br /> C. Update on the U of M Metropolitan Livable Communities Design Center Course. <br /> Community Development Director Pam Sheldon gave a brief update regarding the two <br /> classes. The first class presented an overview of course objectives and each community's <br /> focus issue. We learned that our perceived challenges with regards to a plan for <br /> Highway 10 can be overcome. Sheldon described the second class which focused on <br /> Highway 10's function as a transit corridor. An expert transportation planner, Robert <br /> Kulash, described the tunnel vision of traffic engineers regarding the movement of traffic <br /> rather than looking at enhancing the drive along a highway and ways to encourage lower <br /> speed without even changing the speed limit. She noted that there were many excellent <br /> opportunities for change along Highway 10 and that they are achievable. The goal <br /> 4111 should be to change Highway 10 from to a vehicle moving road to a boulevard area that <br /> vehicles move through. The next class will be held again at City Hall and a <br /> representative from the Design Center will bring a concept that would help the <br /> I community to move forward on a plan for the Highway 10 Corridor. <br /> 6. Reports From Chair, Commissioners and Staff: <br /> No Reports <br /> 7. Adjournment <br /> There being no further business before the Commission, this meeting of the Economic Development <br /> Commission adjourned at 8:34 a.m. <br /> Respectfully Submitt- <br /> Ado <br /> Director of E gromic Development <br /> • <br />