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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-18-2011 CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2011 7:30 A.M. 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. APPROVE NOVEMBER 18, 2011 EDC AGENDA 4. APPROVE OCTOBER 21, 2011 EDC MINUTES 5. SPECIAL BUSINESS 6. EDC BUSINESS A. Review March 2008 Business Toolbox B. Review December 2006 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study C. Discuss Status of 2011 EDC Priorities 7. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS 8. REPORTS OF STAFF A. Recap of November 7th City Council Work Session B. Recap of November 9th Mounds View Business Council Meeting C. Commissioners Belting and Paron Reappointed to EDC D. TCAAP Development Update E. Mounds View Business News F. Available Business Sites in Mounds View G. Upcoming Urban Land Institute “Navigating the New Normal” Workshop 9. NEXT REGULAR EDC MEETING – Friday, January 20, 2012 10. ADJOURNMENT EDC Members: Gary Meehlhause, Jennifer Wagner-Harkonen, Greg Belting, Jason Helgemoe, Torri Johnson, Dan Larson & Jim Paron City Staff: Economic Development Specialist Heidi Steinmetz Minutes of the Economic Development Commission City of Mounds View Ramsey County, Minnesota Regular Meeting October 21, 2011 City of Mounds View, Council Chambers 2401 Highway 10, Mounds View, MN 55112 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Torri Johnson called the meeting to order at 7:34am. 2. ROLL CALL Members Present: Chair Torri Johnson and Commissioners Greg Belting, Dan Larson, Gary Meehlhause and Jim Paron Members Absent: Vice Chair Jennifer Wagner-Harkonen and Commissioner Helgemoe Staff Present: City Administrator Jim Ericson and Economic Development Specialist Heidi Steinmetz 3. APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 21, 2011 AGENDA Motion/Second: Commissioner Larson moved and Commissioner Belting seconded the approval of the October 21, 2011 EDC agenda. Motion Carried: 5 Ayes, 0 Nays 4. APPROVAL OF JULY 15, 2011 EDC MINUTES Motion/Second: Chair Johnson noted that the word “was” should be added in the last bulleted item under Item 7. Commissioner Belting moved and Commissioner Meehlhause seconded the approval of the July 15, 2011 minutes as amended. Motion Carried: 5 Ayes, 0 Nays 5. SPECIAL BUSINESS Commissioner Larson wished his daughter a happy 21st birthday. 6. EDC BUSINESS A. Discuss Future of EDC Economic Development Specialist Heidi Steinmetz provided background information about the formation and makeup of the EDC. Draft EDC Minutes Oct. 21, 2011 Page 2 of 3 Chair Johnson stated that the EDC had received word that the Economic Development Specialist position would be eliminated at the end of the year. She said the news has created confusion about the EDC’s role moving forward. Chair Johnson requested that the EDC discuss the issue before Ms. Steinmetz’s departure and wondered who on City staff would assume Ms. Steinmetz’s duties. Commissioner Paron asked City Administrator Jim Ericson why the City would eliminate the position at this particular time. Mr. Ericson responded that this discussion may be premature because the City Council has not yet discussed this issue publically. He explained that the City Council will discuss the Economic Development Specialist position at the November 7th Work Session. He invited the EDC to attend the meeting. Commissioner Belting said that the EDC has been clear about their goals over the years and that the Economic Development position is important. Mr. Ericson agreed. Chair Johnson agreed that now is an important time to maintain the position because the economy appears to be recovering. Commissioner Meehlhause asked for clarification on how the position is budgeted. Mr. Ericson responded that the position is funded entirely by Tax Increment Financing (TIF), not the City’s General Fund. Ms. Steinmetz mentioned that the City’s TIF Districts will be expiring in a few years, which would eliminate the funding source for the position. Mr. Ericson responded that if the position is worthwhile and a benefit to the community, the City Council would find a way to fund the position. Referring to the Medtronic District, Commissioner Meehlhause added that not all of the City’s TIF Districts expire by the year 2015. Commissioner Belting said that the City can’t afford to be without both an Economic Development Specialist and a Community Development Director. Commissioner Larson agreed. Mr. Ericson concluded by reminding the EDC that although the budget presented to the City Council at the October Work Session did not include the Economic Development Specialist position for 2012, it is not a foregone conclusion that the position will be eliminated. The Council will be discussing it at the November 7th Work Session. The EDC decided to discuss the future of the EDC after the November 7th Work Session. Motion/Second: Commission Meehlhause moved and Commissioner Paron seconded a motion to recommend that the EDA retain the Economic Development Specialist position especially in light of recent developments in neighboring cities and continued needs in our own city for 2012 and beyond. Motion Carried: 5 Ayes, 0 Nays 7. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS There were no commissioner reports. Draft EDC Minutes Oct. 21, 2011 Page 3 of 3 8. REPORTS OF STAFF Ms. Steinmetz said that most recently, Governor Dayton has proposed calling a special session to discuss Vikings stadium funding but a date has not been set. Commissioner Meehlhause added that the Ramsey County Charter Commission recently voted not to hold a referendum on the proposed half cent sales tax for Ramsey County. Commissioner Meehlhause provided a recap of the October Mounds View Business Council meeting where two Edgewood Middle School teachers provided information on Edgewood possibly becoming a magnet school next year. He suggested that School District representatives should attend a future City Council meeting to provide information to the community and the City Council. He also discussed a document that Chamber president distributed to the Mounds View Business Council regarding how most stadiums throughout the country were funded through a public/private partnership. He added that he plans to distribute the document to the City Council on November 7th. Ms. Steinmetz and Mr. Ericson provided updates regarding El Loro Mexican Restaurant, the two pending senior housing projects, Zero Gravity trampoline park and Allina’s ambulance base of operations. Ms. Steinmetz urged people to visit the City’s Website to view a list of available business sites. Chair Johnson asked Mr. Ericson about residential remodeling permits. He said the City has processed about the same amount as was processed last year at this time. Commissioner Larson asked if the City keeps track of who buys foreclosed properties. Mr. Ericson said that the City knows who owns each property due to utility billing and that the residential licensing program allows the City to maintain records of who may be renting single-family properties within the City. 9. NEXT REGULAR EDC MEETING The next regular EDC meeting was scheduled for Friday, November 18, 2011 at 7:30am. 10. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the October 21, 2011 meeting adjourned at 8:35am. Respectfully submitted, Heidi Steinmetz, Economic Development Specialist Item #: 6A-C Meeting Date: Nov. 18, 2011 Type of Business: EDC Administrator Review: ____ City of Mounds View Staff Report To: Economic Development Commission From: Heidi Steinmetz, Economic Development Specialist Item Title/Subject: A. March 2008 Business Toolbox B. Dec. 2006 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study C. Status of 2011 EDC Priorities Recommendation City staff recommends that the EDC review the three attached documents and discuss how each document may be utilized to promote Economic Development activity in the City of Mounds View. Respectfully submitted, ____________________________ Heidi Steinmetz, Economic Development Specialist Mounds View Business Toolbox City of Mounds View Economic Development Internal Document Adopted by the Mounds View Economic Development Authority March 10, 2008 March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 2 of 10 Appendices Appendix A Business Subsidy Policy Appendix B Business Improvement Partnership Loan Program Appendix C Tax Rebate Financing (TRF) Policy Appendix D Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Policy Table of Contents Site Location Assistance Page 3 Development Review Services Page 3 Business Development Programs Pages 3-5 Workforce Development Programs Pages 5-6 Business Finance Loans & Grants Pages 6-10 March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 3 of 10 Mounds View Business Toolbox The Mounds View Business Toolbox is an internal document to the City of Mounds View Community Development Department. The Toolbox is intended to serve as a summary document listing the financial and technical resources available to existing and prospective Mounds View businesses. Any financial assistance available by the City of Mounds View is at the discretion of the Mounds View Economic Development Authority (EDA) and must coincide with the EDA’s priorities and objectives. A. Site Location Assistance The City of Mounds View maintains information on development opportunities within the community. These include vacant parcels, available building spaces, and redevelopment properties. Comprehensive plan, zoning, street, water, sewer, utility, and other maps are available for businesses, developers, realtors, engineering and architectural firms. B. Development Review Services Businesses considering Mounds View as an expansion or relocation are encouraged to contact staff at the Mounds View City Hall for various services, including construction and building services, licenses, and zoning reviews. The Community Development staff evaluates developer proposals and reviews project plans that are presented by businesses and/or architectural/engineering firms. As such, staff does consider setbacks, permits, and rezoning that may facilitate projects. C. Business Development Programs The City of Mounds View collaborates with several other entities that provide services to our local businesses. These include the Twin Cities North Chamber of Commerce (located in Mounds View), the DEED Small Business Development Center (in Minneapolis), and the Ramsey County Workforce Investment Board (also referred to as Workforce Solutions, located in North St. Paul). March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 4 of 10 In addition to several annual events, the Twin Cities North Chamber of Commerce hosts these monthly business education and networking events: 1) Twin Cities North Chamber of Commerce – www.twincitiesnorth.org A. Breakfast Club This activity occurs twice monthly and is held at the Mounds View Community Center. The Chamber hosts a formal morning breakfast networking event attended by area member businesses. The event attracts traditionally 30 participants interested in marketing their organization and exchanging best practice ideas. The group meets the second and forth Thursday at 7:30 a.m. The cost is $5 per person. B. Business Smartz The Chamber provides a practical business education forum in its guaranteed Business Smartz Seminar series. The Business Smartz program takes place the first Tuesday of the month, traditionally in the morning. This hour and a half long seminar is focused on educational topics that are practical and beneficial to business owners and key management in small to mid-sized organizations. Topics vary. The cost per event is $15. C. Evening Exchange Evening Exchange is a monthly afternoon networking event-taking place at an area business. Evening Exchange is designed to create a relaxed networking environment where business professionals from all company sizes can discuss partnership opportunities and exchange ideas. The event generally occurs the second Wednesday of the month. Location varies. No cost except for beverages. D. Monthly Educational Luncheon The TCN Chamber hosts a monthly networking and educational luncheon. The event includes an average of 50 participants and is intended to connect with both new area businesses as well as those with deep roots in the community. A featured presenter discusses issues pertinent to members in the northern Twin Cities suburbs. Location varies. Cost is $16 per person. E. north yp network As an offering geared toward early stage business professionals, the north yp network serves as the Chamber’s young professionals networking and education group (ages from 21 to 35+/-). The north yp network holds events twice a month: one social/networking; one educational. The group self directs its agenda and is run by an active committee. Location and cost varies. March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 5 of 10 2) DEED Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – www.mnsbdc.com The state’s SBDC offers individual advice and guidance concerning the formation, management, financing and operation of businesses. Counseling is provided at no charge to qualified businesses, although there may be a fee for certain out-of-pocket costs incurred by the SBDC. To qualify for counseling, the business must be “small” as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Individuals who are considering starting a business are also eligible for counseling. How does the program work? The client must sign a “Request for Counseling” form and must agree to participate in surveys designed to measure the effectiveness of the SBDC program. To maximize the value of the counseling, clients should prepare a draft business plan before meeting with the counselor. SBDC counselors have significant experience in the private sector, and many have extensive management and financial consulting backgrounds. To learn more about the services, Mounds View businesses can contact the local SBDC office located in at the University of St. Thomas (Minneapolis campus). You can contact Michael Ryan at 651-962-4500. 3) DEED Business Services DEED Business Services staff serve the business community in Ramsey County, and around the state, with business development and workforce-related services. Services including helping startup and expanding businesses, coordinating specialized business development products and services to employers, brownfield redevelopment assistance, and labor market information. Local businesses can contact Cheryl Beaumier, Business Services at 651-779-5645. D. Workforce Development Programs Minnesota WorkForce Centers (WFCs) provide the tools, resources and services needed for job search, career planning and training needs. WorkForce Centers are a collaboration of partners. People seeking work, businesses seeking employees, students, and those looking for a first job or returning to the workforce, will find services to meet their needs, most offered at no cost. Each WFC house houses a Resource Area that operates similar to a library. The Ramsey County WorkForce Center that services businesses in the City of Mounds View is located in North St. Paul. The Center provides a variety of services to employers to meet their employee recruitment and retention needs. Some services provided include training seminars, training grants, job fairs, and wage subsidies to name a few. Businesses may contact Cheryl Beaumier, Business Services at the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development at 651-779-5645. Businesses can also visit the Department’s website at www.deed.state.mn.us. Some of the workforce programs available to employers include: March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 6 of 10 1) Minnesota’s Job Bank The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is responsible for administering various state and federal programs that provide workforce development services. Minnesota’s Job Bank is an Internet-based self-service system where member employers and job seekers can find each other. Employer members can post job openings to be searched by job seekers. Employer members can also search for job candidates and contact them by email. Job seeker members can post a resume to be searched by employers. Members can also search for job openings, contact employers by e-mail, and apply online. 2) Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) & Welfare-to-Work Tax Credit (WtW) WOTC allows employers to take a federal income tax credit when they hire persons from certain targeted groups. For most groups, the maximum credit is 40% of the first $6,000 in qualified wages for a savings of $2,400. The WtW Tax Credit is a two-year program involving the hiring of long-term family assistance recipients that provides tax savings up to $8,500 for each eligible new hire. 3) Customized Training Programs. The Metro Consortium for Customized Training is an association of the Customized Training divisions of the 10 metropolitan area community and technical colleges and Metropolitan State University. It facilitates customized training for Minnesota employers using the expertise and resources of the 10 institutions. For example, Anoka-Ramsey Community College has collaborated with the Consortium and customized training programs for various occupations pertaining to the medical device industry. 4) Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program The VR Program helps Minnesotans with significant disabilities get ready for, find and keep their chosen jobs and careers. E. Business Finance Loans & Grants For both existing businesses desiring to expand and for businesses new to the City there are federal, state and local financial assistance programs. All local financial assistance is at the discretion of the Mounds View EDA and is governed by the City’s overarching Business Subsidy Policy, which is attached as Appendix A. 1) Small Business Administration Loan Programs – SBA 504 Loan / 7a Loan The U.S. Small Business Administration provides a wide array of programs to help small businesses, including financial and federal contract procurement assistance, management assistance, and specialized outreach to women, minorities, and veterans. March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 7 of 10 The SBA 504 Loan program provides fixed-rate, long-term financing for land, buildings and manufacturing equipment or machinery. SBA 504 Loans feature a 10 to 20 amortization, fixed-loan payments, below market interest rates, and a low downpayment. The deal structure is 50% bank loan (1st position), 40% SBA 504 (2nd position), and 10% equity injection. (A new business and a special- purposed building require 20% equity injection.) The program’s minimum and maximum loan amounts are $50,000 and $750,000 respectively. How does the program work? Businesses should contact the certified development company authorized by SBA to originate and service SBA 504 loans in their geographic area. SPEDCO is a non-profit certified development company located in New Brighton whose mission is to help small businesses obtain financing for job creation, to fund business expansion and to promote economic development in Minnesota. SPEDCO can handle SBA Loan financing for businesses wishing to expand or locate in Mounds View. They provide long-term, fixed rate loans through the SBA 504 Loan program and also provide 7(a) loan packaging consulting services to banks and their customers. For more information call 651-631-4900. 2) State of Minnesota Business Financing Programs The Department of Employment and Economic Development encourages the creation of high quality jobs through business growth, expansion and retention. Business Development Services help companies expand or relocate in Minnesota, find and train employees, promote international trade, and finance business expansions. The most likely funding program applicable to Mounds View businesses would be the Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF). It’s designed for businesses acquiring “fixed assets” (such as equipment, buildings, and land) and adding new employees as a result. This program provides companies below-market financing. Virtually all types of businesses are eligible, except retail. The maximum award is $500,000. The applicant is the city. Terms are negotiated. 3) Ramsey County Business Loan Program The Ramsey County Business Loan Program provides gap financing that can be used in conjunction with other private and public funds. Who can apply? In general, loans are restricted to commercial, industrial, or service oriented businesses located in or moving to Ramsey County. In addition, businesses must be registered to do business in the State of Minnesota and demonstrate a need for public financing. How does the program work? Loans are typically made for the purchase of capital equipment, land and building acquisition, and building rehabilitation or new construction. Application fees are March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 8 of 10 low, and rates and terms are more flexible than the market. Loans of up to $250,000 are provided. To request an application, or to obtain more information, you can contact Denise Beigbeder at the Ramsey County Community and Economic Development office at 651-266-8005. 4) Bonds used for Development By state law cities can issue bonds. These debt instruments can be taxable or tax-exempt. Not all bonds are general obligation. Pure revenue bonds are also common, especially for development. Bonds can be used to pay project costs and for the first two or three years of interest payments. This reduces the need for short-term revenue. There are several types of bonds the City could consider for development projects: a) Revenue Bonds. Various bonds used to finance industrial, commercial and medical facilities, multifamily rental housing, nursing homes and some nonprofit activities. b) Industrial Revenue Bonds. Allows cities to issue tax-exempt bonds to finance fixed assets. In the typical transaction, the city issues the bonds and becomes the legal owner of the asset (e.g. building). The City then leases back or sells the asset to the company. The firm’s repayment coincides with bond payback. c) Essential Function Bonds. Certain types of economic development are considered by the state to be “essential functions” of a city. Sometimes called “housing revenue bonds”, these bonds are not general obligation bonds backed by the full faith and credit of the City. Revenues generated by the project pay the bond and can be used for a variety of housing options (market and nonmarket rate). d) Common Bond Revenue Bonds. State and local governments may issue tax-exempt or taxable revenue bonds on behalf of private borrowers to provide lower interest rates on long-term financing. In general, manufacturing, medical facility, nonprofit or nursing home projects are eligible for tax-exempt revenue bonds and those issued for commercial projects are taxable. Bonds issued through the Common Bond Fund are investment-grade instruments with a rating based on the security provided by the fund. e) Bank Qualified Bank Direct Tax-Exempt Loans. These are cost- effective tax-exempt financing for capital projects for small manufacturing companies and nonprofit organizations. 5) Business Improvement Partnership Loan Program Purpose: The City’s Economic Development Authority has a vested interest in helping Mounds View businesses thrive and prosper while improving the aesthetics of the commercial, industrial, and retail sectors of the community. Accordingly, the Mounds View Business Improvement Partnership Loan Program has been March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 9 of 10 established to partner with local businesses by providing 2% interest loans for exterior and interior building improvements. Details regarding this program are attached as Appendix B. Who can apply? Any business owner who has operated a facility or property located in Mounds View for a minimum of two years. How does the program work? The City’s Economic Development Authority, in partnership with local banks, will provide improvement loans to existing Mounds View businesses at a minimum of $10,000 and a maximum of $50,000. The City participates by providing only half of the loan amount at a 2% interest rate. 6) Tax Rebate Financing (TRF) The City of Mounds View has adopted the attached policy (see Appendix C) pertaining to Tax Rebate Financing (also known as Tax Abatement). An abatement is a property tax repayment rather than an exemption from paying property taxes. It is a method to finance up-front costs and provide additional equity to a development or to finance a public improvement. For eligible redevelopment and development projects, all or a portion of City real estate taxes can be rebated for up to 15 or 20 years. Ramsey County and the Mounds View School District can also rebate all or a portion of their share of real estate taxes. If all three taxing jurisdictions participate, taxes may be rebated up to 20 years. Purpose: The fundamental purpose of Tax Rebate Financing in Mounds View is to encourage desirable development or redevelopment that would not otherwise occur but for the assistance provided. Who can apply? Any developer or business owner with a facility or property located in Mounds View, or any developer or business owner intending to construct a facility in Mounds View. How does the program work? The developer or business owner completes a Tax Rebate Financing (TRF) application and submits the application and the required $1,000 application fee to the City’s Community Development Department. Economic Development staff reviews and analyzes the information and presents it to the City’s Economic Development Authority. The maximum applicants may abate is $200,000 per year or up to 10% of the City’s levy. There is no minimum abatement or rebate. March 10, 2008 Mounds View Business Toolbox Internal Document Page 10 of 10 7) Tax Increment Financing (TIF) The City of Mounds View has adopted the attached policy (see Appendix D) pertaining to Tax Increment Financing (TIF). TIF is considered the premier tool for economic development in Minnesota. Since 1986 the biggest single development program in the City of Mounds View’s Toolbox has been the use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF). TIF, in brief, is the ability to capture and use all increased local property tax revenues from new development within a defined geographic area. TIF payments to developers can be used for eligible uses, such as land acquisition, demolition, utilities, parking, relocation, administration, etc. There are different types of TIF districts, including redevelopment, economic development, housing, and soils condition districts. Mounds View currently has four tax increment financing districts—three redevelopment districts and one economic development district. Purpose: It is the policy of the City of Mounds View to consider the judicious use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for those projects which demonstrate a public benefit by constructing public improvements in support of developments that will: create new jobs, retain existing employment, eliminate blight, strengthen the economic base of the City, increase property values and tax revenues, create economic stability, and/or expansion of business and housing options in the City. Who can apply? Any developer or business owner with a facility or property located in Mounds View, or any developer or business owner intending to construct a facility in Mounds View. How does the program work? The developer or business owner completes a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) application and submits the application and the required $5,000 application fee to the City’s Community Development Department. Economic Development staff reviews and analyzes the information and presents it to the City’s Economic Development Authority. The EDA gives preference to the use of “pay as you go” assistance to finance development or redevelopment projects. 1 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View City of Mounds View December 2006 Prepared for: City of Mounds View Community Development Authority Prepared by: DSU/ Bonestroo Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study with Market Research Attachment Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 2 City of Mounds View INTRODUCTION This technical memorandum signals the completion of the research and analysis and redevelopment concept development stages of the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area project. The purpose of this memorandum is to summarize and document the process that has been completed to date. The document begins with a Background section that provides basic information about the project site. This section includes information about both the physical characteristics of the site and its surroundings, and information regarding its comprehensive plan and zoning designation. Also included in the report are: • Description of the physical redevelopment of the Premium Stop Area. • Summary of goals and objectives. 3 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View BACKGROUND Study Area The Premium Stop Redevelopment Area is a series of parcels combined to create a 12.3 acre project area located along County Road 10 in the City of Mounds View. This project area is generally bordered on the northeast by County Road 10, the south west by a combination by O’Connell Drive, the west by Edgewood Drive, and the south by Woodale Drive. The site is surrounded by single family residential neighborhoods on the southwest and by commercial development along County Road 10. The site currently contains a variety of commercial and residential uses including the two restaurants, a car wash and single family homes. Along County Road 10, the City is currently engaged in a trail improvement project which will have some impact on the proposed Premium Stop Redevelopment Area. Some of the improvements proposed along County Road 10 include; a new 10’ multi-use trail, seating areas, bicycle racks, wayfinding signs and markers, landscaping, stormwater management areas and City monumentation. Existing Site Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 4 City of Mounds View SUMMARY OF SITE ANALYSIS Site Zoning and Data The current 12.3 acre Premium Stop Redevelopment Area is guided as business and zoned as B-3 – Highway Business according to the City of Mounds View’s Zoning ordinance. The site is divided into four distinct areas: a) The upper portion of the site at the intersection of County Road H2 and County Road 10 with existing commercial uses, including the City owned and recently removed Premium Stop Gas Station; b) The middle portion located along County Road 10 with the Car wash and vacent parcel; c) And the lower portion of the site along County Road 10 with existing single family homes and numerous existing trees. d) The City currently owns the former Premium Stop Gas station site which is 1.159 acres and has approximately 518 lin. feet of frontage along County Road 10. Enlargement of EDA owned parcel Existing Site Zoning 5 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View Development Pattern Conventional Suburban Development Pattern Very much like residential areas within close proximity to this site, the development pattern of the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area is consistent with suburban trends. As with most suburban commercial areas, the existing site is characterized by widely spaced buildings set back and isolated from the street in order to accommodate highly visible parking lots. Since land uses are compartmentalized, residents are forced to make most trips by car. As a result, streets and signs have been designed to accommodate the automobile, creating a cluttered environment lacking a distinct sense of place that is not very pedestrian friendly. The ultimate challenge for a suburban environment is to balance the functional needs of vehicles with those of pedestrians, to create a sense of personal safety and comfort while also nurturing a memorable image. The challenge for this particular site also involves defining a focus to the area, reducing clutter, and fostering a sense of community pride. Traditional Community Development Pattern Older, more traditional development patterns include more closely spaced buildings that collectively shape the street corridors and create a more compact, pedestrian-friendly environment. This is the basic development pattern that the City of Mounds View desires for this project which has been articulated as a redevelopment goal. Existing Site Development Pattern Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 6 City of Mounds View Site Ownership The 12.3 acre Premium Stop Redevelopment Area currently has twelve different property owners, including the City of Mounds View Economic Development Authority which owns approximately 1.16 acres of land within the site at the intersection of County Road 10 and County Road H2. The significant number of different property owners has created a non-unified site and has directly resulted in the existing uncoordinated conventional development pattern. In addition, the ownership patterns contribute to the challenge of redeveloping the site. A more unified ownership of the site would contribute to improving site access and circulation as well as creating a more compatible and cohesive development pattern for the redevelopment of the site. Existing Site Uses Existing Site Ownership 7 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View Site Access and Circulation The Premium Stop Redevelopment Area is located along County Road 10, which is the main northwest to southeast vehicular corridor in the City of Mounds View. Each of the individual properties along County Road 10 has a private driveway creating potential pedestrian/ vehicular conflicts. Current access into the project area is limited to right-in and right-out only. Full access to the redevelopment site occurs at the intersection of Edgewood Drive and County Road H2. Future access to the redevelopment project site will be as limited as currently exists with the opportunity to consolidate driveways and remove some altogether. The internal circulation on the redevelopment project site is defined by a series of residential streets with limited pedestrain sidewalks. The existing bicycle and pedestrian network adjacent to the redevelopment site will be enhanced with the creation of a multi-use trails along the entire lenght of County Road 10 within the City limits. The City has expressed a desire to enhance the pedestrian connection between the redevelopment project site and the adjacent single family residential neighborhoods to County Road 10. Existing Site Access and Circulation Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 8 City of Mounds View Goal #4 Use the urban design elements to create a streetscape system that emphasizes a sense of human scale and balance between pedestrian and automobile space along County Road 10 and within the development. Enhance pedestrian connections from the redevelopment site to the County Road 10 corridor and to adjacent residential neighborhoods. Goal #5 Require new development to provide adequate and appropriately screened off-street parking. Redevelopment Master Plan The Premium Stop Redevelopment Area plan envisions the creation of a compact, walkable commercial node with a mix of retail, office and housing. The development will connect to community amenities along County Road 10 as well as existing adjacent neighborhoods, local parks and new multi-use trail, neighborhood schools in the City, all while providing a pedestrian friendly environment. The master plan proposes a development that will be tied together by a new multi-use trail along County Road 10 as well as a series of new pedestrian connections providing access to the redevelopment site and creating a backbone for internal circulation. The proposed commercial properties that front County Road 10 will define the edge of the corridor and provide necessary services to the neighborhood and community as a whole. The commercial uses will be backed by a series of shared surface parking lots that will serve as parking for the commercial and office uses, as well as provide overflow public parking during events and weekends. The proposed housing within the redevelopment project site will include housing that blends with the traditional surrounding neighborhoods providing affordable options for current residents and free up housing for new residents. As a direct result of conversations with City staff, a set of draft goals was created for the Premium Stop Gas Station Area Redevelopment Plana and are listed below: Goal #1 Achieve an appropriate development project that includes business, residential and mixed uses along County Road 10. The business/ commercial uses should frame the intersections and buffer the residential uses from the impacts of County Road 10. The development should also be based on real market conditions and achievable market strategies. Goal #2 Require the development to reflect and reinforce the positive and strong architectural elements that represent the desired character and image of the community. The development should also be designed in a manner to be compatible with adjacent developments. Goal #3 Extend the urban design elements and amenities found along the proposed County Road 10 multi-use trail, demonstrating consistency and compatibility with the existing improvements found along the County Road 10 corridor and visually connecting the site to its surroundings. 9 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Concept A Short Term Short-Term: • Commercial infill – 1 commercial space with a total of 5,000sf located on the old Premium Stop Gas Station site – Building one story in height – Potential drive-thru opportunity – Front yard outdoor dining spaces – Potential users - Office for local services with good visibility to County Road 10 • New shared parking lot – 26 shared parking stalls located behind the buildings that front County Road 10 – Landscaped islands and parking lot edges to screen the parking • Existing Japanese restaurant to remain (however, facade improvements are recommended) – Parking to be reconfigured to create shared parking opportunities – Access maintained from Greenfield Avenue • Streetscape improvements • Maintain single access drive located along County Road 10 (right-in and right-out only) • Shared parking lot located on site • Pedestrian connection from single family neighborhood to County Road 10 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 10 City of Mounds View Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Concept B Short Term Short-Term: • New Mixed-Use infill - Commercial and Office – Add 1 commercial space with a total of 10,000sf at the corner of County Road 10 and County Road H2 – Building two story in height – Front yard outdoor dining spaces – Requires the cooperation and easements with adjacent Japanese restaurant • New shared parking lot – 86 shared parking stalls located behind the buildings that front County Road 10 – Reconfigured parking lot with two driveway access to Greenfield Ave – Landscaped islands and parking lot edges to screen the parking • Existing Japanese restaurant to remain (however, facade improvements are recommended) – Parking to be reconfigured to create shared parking opportunities – Access maintained from Greenfield Avenue through shared parking • Streetscape improvements • New access drive located along County Road 10 (right-in and right-out only) • Shared parking lot located on site • Pedestrian connection from single family neighborhood to County Road 10 11 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Concept C - 1 Mid Term Mid -Term: • Expand Commercial infill – Expand current commercial infill along County Road 10 to 8,000sf – Building remains 1 story in height – Relocate Japanese Restaurant into this expanded building space – 84 shared parking stalls located behind the buildings that front County Road 10 – Reconfigured parking lot with two driveway access to Greenfield Ave – Landscaped islands and parking lot edges to screen the parking – Requires redevelopment of the Sports Bar site • New Senior Condo infill – 40 total units – Building three stories in height – Underground parking – Parking to be reconfigured to create shared parking opportunities – Access maintained from Greenfield Avenue • New Townhome infill – 13 total units – Building two stories in height, with rear garage entries • Streetscape improvements • Public park with connections to residential neighborhoods and County Road 10 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 12 City of Mounds View Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Concept C - 2 Mid Term Mid -Term: • New Commercial infill – 5,000 total sf – Building one story in height – Parking to be reconfigured to create shared parking opportunities – Access maintained to County Road 10 – Requires the redevelopment of the Sports Bar, Japanese Restaurant and Car Wash sites. • New shared parking lot – 40 shared parking stalls located behind the building that front County Road 10 – Landscaped islands and parking lot edges to screen the parking • Streetscape improvements • Pedestrian connection from single family neighborhood to County Road 10 13 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View Long -Term: • New Mixed-Use infill - Commercial and Office – Add 1 commercial space with a total of 10,000sf – Building two story in height – Reconfigured parking lot with 93 shared parking stalls – Staged redevelopment of remaining parcels along County Road 10 • New Condo/ Apartment infill – 60 total units – Building three stories in height – Underground parking with 41 surface parking stalls – Access to Woodale Drive • New Townhome infill – 20 total units – Building two stories in height, with rear garage entries • Streetscape improvements Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Concept D - 1 Long Term Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 14 City of Mounds View Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Concept D - 2 Long Term Long -Term: • New Corporate Office infill – 60,000 sf in two buildings – Buildings each 2 stories in height – 190 parking stalls located behind the buildings that front County Road 10 – Driveway access to Woodale Drive – Landscaped islands and parking lot edges to screen the parking • Streetscape improvements • Pedestrian connections through campus from single family neighborhood to County Road 10 • On-site stormwater management • Maintain existing trees 15 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Concept E Long Term Alternative Long -Term: • New Mixed Use infill – 5 New buildings (Both Mixed-Use and Residential) – Buildings each 2 stories in height – All buildings would require underground parking – 200 total parking stalls located behind the buildings that front County Road 10 – Requires closure of Greenfield Ave at County Road H2 – Requires extension of O’ Connell Drive to Edgewood Drive – Greenfield Ave would terminate at O’ Connell Drive and pedestrian promenade would connect out to intersection of County Roads 10 and H2. – New road connection Jeffery Drive to County Road 10 – 24 total infill Townhomes shown – Landscaped islands and parking lot edges to screen the parking • Streetscape improvements • Pedestrian connections through project site from single family neighborhood to County Road 10 • On-site stormwater management • Maintain existing trees Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 16 City of Mounds View Commercial Development The desired outcome for the commercial development on the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area is to maintain and improve the commercial area as a vital retail and service location along County Road 10. The main objectives for the commercial development are as follows: 1. Identify and recruit business types that will be successful in this location and support land use densities and values that make redevelopment financially feasible. This may require authorization of some Redevelopment Project Staging The redevelopment master plan for the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area has been designed in a way to be phased in over time as parcels located in the redevelopment site become available. The master plan has been defined as short-, mid- and long-term redevelopment potential, which will allow the plan to be flexible and redevelopment to occur regardless of which parcels become available for development. In addition, the master plan will allow for existing buildings to remain as part of the overall redevelopment of the Premium Stop Redevelopment site as long as these buildings were altered in their location and their exterior appearance to be in keeping with the site plan and design guidelines articulated in the master plan. Implementation Strategy: Planned Unit Development Overlay District To accomplish the goals of the Premium Stop Redevelopment Study, the city will consider an overlay zoning district that would provide standards and procedures beyond what is contained in the zoning ordinance for the underlying districts along the Highway 10 corridor. This Planned Unit Development Overlay District, to be developed in detail by city staff and consultants in conjunction with the Planning Commission and City Council, could include the following: 1) All projects on property within a certain defined area along the corridor - perhaps 300 feet from the right- of-way, or another distance to be determined - would be approved only upon application for a planned unit development (PUD) in accordance with the standards for PUDs in the Mounds View zoning code, the additional standards of the overlay district, and the goals of the corridor study. 2) The uses allowed within the overlay will include all permitted, conditional, and accessory uses in the underlying district, plus other uses integrated into the project, upon a finding by the City Council that such uses within the overall project further the goals of the corridor study. Specifically, mixed use projects, integrating retail, office, and residential uses both horizontally and vertically will be encouraged. 3) Site planning standards within the overlay district will include requirements for building placement close to the street, parking to the side and rear, maintenance of a street edge by means of a fence, railing, or hedge, and screening of loading areas and trash receptacles from view of public streets, the front yard of neighboring properties, and adjacent residential areas. Setbacks within the overlay district will be modified from the standards in the underlying district to encourage this building placement through the use of build-to lines, reduced or zero side setbacks where appropriate, and other considerations to implement the overall intent of the corridor study. 4) Architectural standards within the overlay district will be more rigorous than in the underlying district, including increased use of durable building materials such as brick, stone, and glass, and reduced use or prohibition of wood, sheet metal, and plain concrete block 17 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View Architectural and Site Design Guidelines Site architecture has the most significant impact on site character. Buildings define edges and spaces, establish a level of quality, and serve as inherent destinations for pedestrians moving adjacent to and through the site. They must therefore be well designed, relate to surrounding uses and utilize high quality materials. The Premium Stop Redevelopment Area will benefit from architecture that is consistent in quality and relates to adjacent buildings throughout the County Road 10 corridor. The proposed new buildings will be located along County Road 10 and should employ high quality materials such as stone, brick, and masonry with metal, can- vas and stone accents. Basic Architectural Principles and Overall Site Character: • Define spaces with buildings, not with parking lots. • Create a “Downtown” character on the site that will reinforce a pedestrian friendly environment through the site location of buildings close to the property lines, use of high quality building materials and building façade articulation. • Create building facades and entrances that are interesting and inviting. • Accomplish a level of consistency between commercial, office and residential buildings through similar detailing, materials, other building materials and context. flexibility from the current zoning standards related to setbacks, density, parking, open space and building height. 2. Strive to retain existing local businesses when possible, or to relocate them into places that will allow them to continue to contribute to the prosperity of the community. Identify and support the location of businesses that will contribute to the drawing power of the redevelopment site. 3. Implement strategies to reduce parking requirements, including reduced parking ratios, creation of private/ public shared parking, and trails/sidewalks. Residential Development The desired outcome for the residential development within the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area is to provide the City of Mounds View a series of new housing options that currently do not exist within the community that relate in character and scale to the adjacent neighborhoods. The main objectives for the residential development are as follows: 1. Provide additional housing alternatives in close proximity to the County Road 10 that will fill a need in the current housing market. 2. Successfully integrate the new housing into the surrounding older established neighborhoods. 3. Require high quality community design and construction standards. Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 18 City of Mounds View Commercial Buildings The new commercial buildings proposed on the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area site should be designed to be consistent in character with adjacent uses. Design elements of the buildings should include: • Create dual (front and rear) building facades and well defined entrances that are interesting and inviting, allowing people to access the businesses from the street or parking lot. Utilize covered entrances and window canopies to reinforce a pedestrian scale. • Columnar forms at key building corners. • Variety in building planes both vertically and horizontally. • Utilize high quality materials, including stone, brick, decorative masonry units, prudent use of EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems), and a variety of ornamental metals. • Commercial buildings should maximize frontage along County Road 10 and should be 1 to 2 stories tall to create a desired character along County Road 10 and to frame the site. • Setbacks for the commercial buildings should be 5’ to 10’ max. for buildings without outdoor dining components and 15’ to 20’ max. for buildings with a outdoor dining component. Existing commercial buildings that may remain within the redevelopment project area must be compatible with the master plan for the overall site. This will require existing buildings to undergo exterior architectural renovations that would result in an exterior image consistent with newly constructed commercial buildings in the area. The architectural elements described for new commercial buildings should be used as a guide to retrofitting existing buildings. 19 Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study City of Mounds View Residential Buildings The new residential buildings on the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area site should be designed to communicate a high quality living experience for all income levels and be consistent in character with single family uses. The design should include visual interest throughout, with special attention paid to street and sidewalk frontages. Design elements of the buildings should include: • Well defined entrances with creative use of colorful materials and texture. • Unique detailing that reinforces the character and image of adjacent neighborhoods. • Buildings should utilize compatible high quality materials and design that relates to and reinforces the character of adjacent neighborhoods. These materials should include stone, brick, decorative masonry units, and a variety of ornamental metals. • Setbacks for the residential buildings should be 15’ to 20’ minimum from public sidewalk. Building heights should be no more than two stories. Premium Stop Redevelopment Area Study 20 City of Mounds View Pedestrian and Bicycle Network Integral to the function of the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area is the creation of an integrated system of pedestrian linkages. All streets in the site will accommodate pedestrian movement either with sidewalks or trails. In addition, pedestrian connections to adjacent neighborhoods and commercial areas will be enhanced with decorative crosswalk treatments, signs, and landscape improvements. In addition to the improved pedestrian connections, a new multi-use trail adjacent to the Premium Stop Redevelopment Area has been proposed within the public R.O.W. (right of way) of County Road 10. 2011 Economic Development Commission (EDC) Priorities Adopted by EDC on January 21, 2011 1) Development/redevelopment along the County Rd 10 corridor  Potential name change for County Rd 10  Premium Stop Redevelopment Area  Silver View Plaza  Complete remaining trailway connections to businesses  PAK building  Select Senior Living  Improve the aesthetics of properties in the County Rd 10 corridor  Vacant BP gas station site  Reconstruction of County Rd 10 2) Monitor and assist with Citywide housing issues and projects 3) Implement an informal business retention program 4) Continue budgeting to implement the Mounds View Branding Project 5) Monitor development plans for the TCAAP site in Arden Hills 6) Monitor Mounds View properties in transition 7) Skyline Motel redevelopment 8) Support the implementation of the Citywide Street & Utility Improvement Program Item #: 8A−G Meeting Date: Nov. 18, 2011 Type of Business: EDC Administrator Review: ____ City of Mounds View Staff Report To: Economic Development Commission From: Heidi Steinmetz, Economic Development Specialist Item Title/Subject: Reports of Staff 8A – Recap of November 7th City Council Work Session The City Council discussed the Economic Development Specialist position on November 7th and directed the City Administrator to include the position in the 2012 budget. 8B – Recap of November 9th Mounds View Business Council Meeting The Superintendent of Mounds View Public Schools was the keynote speaker at the November 9th Business Council meeting. He discussed the District’s changing demographics and two new projects for the District’s future, including a magnet school option for Edgewood Middle School and a post-secondary option for Irondale students. 8C – Commissioners Belting and Paron Reappointed to EDC The EDA reappointed Commissioners Belting and Paron during the November 14th EDA meeting. The new terms expire on December 31, 2014. 8D – TCAAP Development Update Attached is a Ramsey County press release dated November 10th regarding the County Board’s vote to purchase and clean up 430 acres of the TCAAP site. The County Board approved the purchase agreement this past Tuesday, Nov. 15th. 8E – Mounds View Business News  Zero Gravity Trampoline Park – 2292 Woodale Dr (Mounds View Business Park South) It is anticipated that Zero Gravity will open in December. City staff will arrange a tour of the space for the EDC in January 2012.  El Loro Mexican Restaurant – 2535 County Road 10 (Mounds View Square) Property owner Paster Enterprises has told city staff that El Loro plans to open early next week (the week of November 21st). Paster Enterprises is planning to schedule a ribbon cutting event. When received, City staff will forward the invitation to the EDC. 8F – Available Business Sites in Mounds View For details on each business site available in Mounds View, visit the City’s Website at www.ci.mounds-view.mn.us/availablesites and click on each property name. November 18, 2011 EDC Meeting Items 8A−G Page 2 of 2 8G – Upcoming Urban Land Institute “Navigating the New Normal” Workshop City staff has contacted the Urban Land Institute and requested that this workshop be provided at Mounds View City Hall. The City Council, Planning Commission and EDC will be invited when staff is provided the date. Please see the attached information about the workshop. Respectfully submitted, ____________________________ Heidi Steinmetz, Economic Development Specialist Navigating the New Normal A ULI Minnesota (ULI MN) public official education workshop Realizing great development and redevelopment opportunities for your community is difficult even in the best of times. The ‘Great Recession’ has made this job especially daunting for everyone – including communities that were previously well-positioned in the marketplace. Many believe this is not a short-lived situation, but represents a ‘new normal’ for the marketplace, i.e. the metrics that will govern the economics of development and redevelopment in the foreseeable future will be fundamentally different than the past. Navigating the New Normal is a ULI MN workshop that offers a practical approach to the new challenges of development and redevelopment. It focuses on your city –or a cluster of cities – in a way that strengthens your understanding of today’s realities of development and redevelopment. Navigating the New Normal is designed to foster a dialogue about the opportunities and challenges inherent in a new economy based upon shifts in the market and changing demographics. Navigating the New Normal Objectives ULI MN volunteers will partner with you to lead an interactive two hour workshop geared towards your City Council, Planning Commission, EDA/HRA members, and staff. The ULI MN team will comprise a cross section of professionals representing disciplines such as design, finance, development, planning and marketing. The workshop will be held at a locale and time of your choosing. The workshop is perfect for a pre-Council or Planning Commission meeting work session. City clusters are encouraged but not required! A workshop involving two or three cities with similar interests may provide a great venue for presentation and dialogue. Workshop participants will develop a better understanding of:  the impact of the ‘new normal’ on future growth patterns, demographic trends, and market preferences;  your city’s households, shifts in household moves, housing types, and labor and commute patterns with a focus on strategies to support a full range of housing choices connected to transportation options and jobs; and  how to position your community to attract the best quality development. There is no cost to participate! Navigating the New Normal is an outreach program designed to foster meaningful dialogue between public and private sector leaders. ULI MN is able to provide this workshop through the generous financial support from the Family Housing Fund and Minnesota Housing. In addition, access to Community Change Data is possible through a funding partnership with the Metropolitan Council. Host communities are only asked to arrange for a meeting location, cover printing costs, and provide refreshments for participants. For more information about Navigating the New Normal, please contact Katie Anderson, ULI MN Associate, at 612-338-1332 or katherine.anderson@uli.org. ULI Minnesota actively engages public and private sector leaders to foster collaboration, share knowledge and join in meaningful strategic action to create thriving, sustainable communities.