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Mounds View EDA November 14, 2005 Regular Meeting Page 8 Commissioner Thomas stressed that the EDA is not just talking about purchase and if there is something the developer needs assistance with to make it work, they should talk to the EDA. Ms. Kvilvang stated the message is clear that County Road 10 is the priority for redevelopment. She suggested the EDA think about setting their vision beyond the infrastructure so if an opportunity comes forward with a property like the Donut Connection or Moundsview Square that is owned by Krause Anderson, they can take advantage. She noted the EDA has now identified three major projects. B. Resolution 05-EDA-210 Authorizing the Demolition of 7861 Groveland Road Community Development Director Ericson stated this is a request for authorization from the EDA to accept a bid to demolish the house at 7861 Groveland Road that the City acquired in 2000, tried to rent out but that didn’t work. The building has now been vacant for several years, there has been vandalism, so it has become a liability. Director Ericson advised that there are good neighbors who let the City know if there is a problem but staff recommends the City explore demolition. He noted three bids were received but came in somewhat high. If approved, the site would be restored to a natural level condition with the basement filled in and the ground sodded or seeded. Staff recommends approval. Vice President Stigney stated the report indicates that efforts were made to sell the house and move it. He asked if the house was advertised for free. Director Ericson stated they have and also contacted moving companies but he does not recall if it was advertised in the last year. He explained the problem with trying to move it anywhere into the metro area is that the building has to come up to current codes, which the building is not able to meet. So, it would have to be moved beyond the metropolitan area. In addition, it may not survive the move and the valuation is not high enough. Vice President Stigney asked about the new furnace. Director Ericson stated that anything of value can be salvaged. He stated some money may have been put into this house to rent it out, but a new furnace was not purchased. In addition, the appliances have been removed from the building. Vice President Stigney asked that the furnace be removed if it is new. Commissioner Thomas asked about the asbestos issue. Director Ericson stated the old linoleum floor tile may have asbestos but they do not expect it to be significant. Commissioner Flaherty agreed the demolition price seems to be high, noting the demolition of two other structures were in the area of $8,000. He asked why there is such a disparity in the demolition bids for this home that contains about the same square footage. He also asked when was the last time the house was rented.