HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-18-2024 EDCCITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
THURSDAY, January 18, 2024
7:30 a.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL: Chair, Jeff Moritko, Vice Chair, Jim Freichels, Commissioner Jason
Helgemoe, Gary Stevenson, Gary Rundle, Andrew Kovacs, Andrina Moe
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
4. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes: November 21, 2023
5. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
A. Oath of Office: 1. Andrew Kovacs
6. PUBLIC COMMENT
Citizens may speak to issues relating to business and economic development and
not on the agenda. Before speaking, please give your full name and address for the
minutes. Also, please limit your comments to three minutes.
7. EDC BUSINESS
A. Elect Chair & Vice Chair
B. New Member Appointment Discussion
C. Future Topics & Presentations
8. REPORTS
A. Reports of Staff
B. Reports of Council Members
C. Reports of EDC Commissioners
8. NEXT REGULAR EDC MEETING: February 15, 2024 at 7:30 a.m.
9. ADJOURNMENT
Minutes of the Economic Development Commission
City of Mounds View
Ramsey County, Minnesota
Regular Meeting
February 16, 2023
City of Mounds View, Council Chambers
2401 County Road 10, Mounds View, MN 55112
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Jeff Moritko called the meeting to order at approximately 7:30 a.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Chair, Jeff Morito, Vice Chair, Jim Freichels, Commissioners, Gary
Stevenson, Gary Rundle, Jason Helgemoe, & Andrina Moe
Members Absent: Donn Lindstrom
Staff Present: Assistant City Administrator, Brian Beeman
Meeting Attendees: Gary Meehlhause
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Motion/Second: Commissioner Freichels moved and Commissioner Stevenson
seconded the approval of the November 21, 2023 EDC Agenda.
Motion Carried: 6 Ayes, 0 Nays
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Motion/Second: Commissioner Rundle moved and Commissioner Moe seconded the
approval of the February 16, 2023 EDC minutes.
Motion Carried: 6 Ayes, 0 Nays
5. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
There being no special order of business, the EDC moved to the next agenda item.
6. PUBLIC COMMENT
Chair Moritko called for public comments. There being no public comments, the EDC
moved to the next agenda item.
7. EDC BUSINESS
A. Recommend New EDC Commissioners for EDA Approval
Motion/Second: Commissioner Freichels moved and Commissioner Stevenson
seconded approving the recommendation to the EDA to appoint Jeff Moritko as the
Business Representative, and Andrew Kovacs as the Resident Representative with
terms starting January 1, 2024 and ending December 31, 2026.
Motion Carried: 6 Ayes, 0 Nays
EDC Minutes
November 21, 2023
Page 2 of 2
B. Resolution 23-EDC-49, Establishing 2024 Calendar Meeting Dates:
Motion/Second: Commissioner Moe moved and Commissioner Freichels seconded the
motion to approve resolution 23-EDC-49, Establishing 2024 Calendar Meeting Dates.
Commissioner Freichels questioned the December 26, 2024 meeting date. The EDC
determined that as it get closer to that date, the EDC can choose to cancel that meeting
if desired.
Motion Carried: 6 Ayes, 0 Nays
8. REPORTS:
A. Reports of Staff
Assistant City Administrator updated the Commission on the Rice Creek Commons
open house, informed the Commission that the Mounds View Business Council has
merged with New Brighton’s Business Council, provided an update on the Villas of
Mounds View, the Long Lake Woods development, Tom Fields Estates, the old
Simon’s building site, Ardan Park redevelopment which may become a wetland
banking area, then turned it over to Chair Moritko.
B. Reports of Council Members
Council Member Meehlhause provided an update on the Community Center that will
not be going forward due to a failed local option sales tax vote, informed them that
the EDA purchased two more properties along the Mounds View Boulevard corridor
with money from the Skyline Motel sale, and an update on the Rice Creek Commons
open house.
C. Reports of EDC Commissioners
Commissioner Helgemoe informed the Commission that Twin Cities North Chamber
of Commerce is holding a fund and food raising event for the Ralph Reeder Food
Shelf December 12, 2023 at 3:30 p.m. and encouraged EDC Members to attend.
9. NEXT REGULAR EDC MEETING
Chair Moritko reminded the Commission that the December EDC meeting will likely be
canceled but there will be a January and February meeting.
10. ADJOURN
There being no further business, Chair Moritko adjourned the November 21, 2023
meeting at approximately 8:55 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_______________________________
Brian Beeman
Assistant City Administrator
Item #: 5A
Meeting Date: January 18, 2024
Type of Business: EDC
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Economic Development Commission
From: Brian Beeman, Assistant City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Administer Oaths of Office to Newly Appointed EDC
Members
Background
At their November 21, 2023 regular meeting, the Economic Development Commission
recommended the appointed Jeff Moritko as a Business Representative and Andrew
Kovacs as a Resident Representative to the EDA. Both were confirmed by the EDA with
terms starting January 1, 2024 and ending December 31, 2026.
As per standard practice, all new commission appointees are required to be sworn in, or
in other words, take an oath of office. Since Jeff Moritko is already on the EDC and was
sworn in when he was a new appointee, an oath of office is not required. However, an
Oath of Office is required for Andrew Kovacs.
Staff Recommendation
The Oaths of Office for the appointee is attached and will be administered under Special
Order of Business at the first meeting in January, 2024.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
Brian Beeman, Assistant City Administrator
Attachments:
1) Oath of Office Andrew Kovacs
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
Oath of Office
I, Andrew Kovacs, do solemnly swear, to support the Constitution of
the United States, and of this state, and to discharge faithfully the duties,
devolving upon me as a member of the Economic Development Commission
of the City of Mounds View, to the best of my judgment and ability.
Sworn before me this 18th day of January, 2024.
_______________________________
Andrew Kovacs
(SEAL)
_______________________________
Brian Beeman
Assistant City Administrator
Item #: 7A
Meeting Date: January 18, 2024
Type of Business: EDC
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Economic Development Commission
From: Brian Beeman, Assistant City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Appoint 2024 EDC Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
Background
Per the following Section 408.07 of the Mounds View City Code:
Subd. 1 Organization: At the first regular meeting of the year, the Commission shall appoint a
chairperson from among its voting members. This appointment shall be subject to
Authority approval and shall consist of a one (1) year term. The position of chair shall
rotate among members, with no Commissioner serving in that capacity for more than two
(2) consecutive terms. The Commission shall also elect a vice-chair from among its
appointed members for a term of one (1) year. The Commission may create and fill such
other offices from its members as it may determine to transact Commission business.
Only the recommended Chair is subject to EDA approval. The Vice-Chair is elected by the EDC.
There is no term limits for the Vice-Chair. However, the Chair can only serve two consecutive
terms, and must sit out at least one term before being considered again. Example, Jeff Moritko
served one year 2023 as Chair. He could serve another term for 2024. However, he would need
to sit out one year, and could reconsider starting 2026. Current and past EDC Members
highlighting past Chairpersons is attached.
Staff Recommendation
1. Consistent with City Code, Staff recommends that the EDC make a motion
recommending appointment of the 2024 EDC Chairperson for the EDA’s consideration.
2. Consistent with City Code, Staff recommends that the EDC elect a Vice Chairperson to
serve for 2024 via motion.
The EDA will consider the recommendation of the EDC Chair on Monday, January 22, 2024.
Once the appointment is confirmed by the EDA in January, the new EDC Chair and Vice Chair
will begin their duties at the February 15, 2024 regular EDC meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
Brian Beeman, Assistant City Administrator
Attachment(s): 1. EDC Current and Past Member History
Economic Development Commission (EDC) Member History
The City Council formed the EDC by Ordinance 542 on June 27, 1994. The EDC is unlike
any other City Commission because the EDC represents both residents and businesses.
Below is a history of those who have served on the EDC since its inception. Names of
Commissioners who have served as EDC Chair are bolded with an asterisk. Business
names of Commissioners who have served as business representatives are highlighted.
Commissioner Years Served Representative Designations
1) Rosemary Goff 1994-2000 Resident
2) Peg Mountin 1994-1995 Resident
3) *Dan Nelson 1994-1998 Resident
4) *Delane Welsch 1994-1997 Resident
5) Mark Malone 1994-1996 Western Bank
6) Ronald Schmidt 1994-1997 Amoco
7) *Philip Seipp 1994-1995 Sysco
8) Brian Sjoberg 1996-1997 Dynex Industries
9) Bev Tarhark 1996-1998 Resident
10) Steven Larson 1997-1997 Resident
11) Cindy Carlson 1997-2001 Western Bank
12) *Tom Field 1997-2007 Resident
13) Sean Walther 1999-2003 Resident
14) Wendy Marty 1999-2001 Resident
15) Julie Olsen 1999-2000 Realtor
16) Jerold Kahn 1999-1999 Resident
17) *Torri Johnson 2000-2012 Xcel Energy
18) *Greg Belting 2000-2014 Silver View Chiropractic
19) Stan McDonald 2001-2003 Resident
20) Dave Fox 2002-2004 Fedtech
21) *Jason Helgemoe 2002-Current Western Bank/Northeast Bank
22) Jackie Entsminger 2003-2010 Resident
23) Jerry Jaker 2005-2007 MN Institute of Public Health
24) *Gary Meehlhause 2006-2012 Resident
25) Dan Larson 2008-Current Resident
26) Jennifer Wagner 2008-2013 Resident
27) Jim Paron 2011-2014 Resident
28) *Jim Freichels 2013-Current Dell-Comm
29) Gary Stevenson 2013-Current Resident
30) Jessica Birken 2014-2014 Resident
31) Jessica Rieland 2015-2017 BioLife Plasma Services
32) Laurie Shoop 2015-2017 Resident
33) Royal Dahlstrom 2015-2016 Resident
Jan 18, 2024 EDC Meeting
EDC Member History
Page 2 of 2
34) *Dennis Farmer 2017-2020 Resident
35) Teresa Muckala 2017-2019 Resident
36) Ken Breske 2018-2018 McClellan Sales (Blaine)
37) Lisa Marquis 2020-2021 Premier Materials (Mounds View)
38) Gary Rundle 2020-Current Resident
39) Donn Lindstrom 2021-2023 Resident
40) *Jeff Moritko 2022-Current Moe’s Restaurant
41) Andrina Moe 2023-Current Resident
42) Andrew Kovacs 2024-Current Resident
Item #: 7B
Meeting Date: January 18, 2024
Type of Business: EDC
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Economic Development Commission
From: Brian Beeman, Assistant City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: New Member Appointment Discussion
Background
The EDC received a commission application from Andrew Kovacs as a Resident Representative for the
2024-26 term. The EDA confirmed his appointment at its November 21, 2023 regular meeting. Multiple
attempts have been made to contact Mr. Kovacs using the information he put on his application. He
has not responded to emails, phone messages, letters, and recently, a certified letter was mailed. He
has until Monday January 15, 2024 to respond to the most recent attempt to contact him. As of the date
this staff report was written the City has not receive any communication from Mr. Kovacs.
When Mr. Kovacs applied for commissions in the City, he applied to every commission. Since, the EDC
had a Resident Representative opening at the time, he was selected to serve on the EDC. Without a
response, it is difficult to determine if he will be able to attend the 7:30 a.m. EDC meetings and this
could jeopardize the possibility of a full quorum at times. This puts staff and the commission in a
dilemma.
Discussion
The EDC should have a discussion to determine the next steps.
Recommendation
Staff recommends the EDC discuss options and make a recommendation that staff can take to the
EDA.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
Brian Beeman
Assistant City Administrator
Item #: 7C
Meeting Date: January 18, 2024
Type of Business: EDC
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Economic Development Commission
From: Brian Beeman, Assistant City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Discuss Future Topics & Presentations
Background
The EDC is an advisory commission to the EDA and meets as-needed per City Code. The Commission
meets January, February, and November each year to complete administrative requirements such as,
new Member recommendations, Oaths of Offices, Chair & Vice Chair appointments, assignment of the
annual calendar of meeting dates, review of by-laws, goals and priorities, and other topics. The
Commission normally breaks for the summer and only meets if necessary until the November meeting.
The EDC should have a discussion to identify specific topics and/or potential presenters that it feels will
add value for 2024 if needed.
Discussion
The EDC to brainstorm ideas for potential topics and/or speakers for 2024. The EDC to further
elaborate and discuss.
Recommendation
Staff recommends the EDC continue to meet January, February, and November and meet as-needed
for the remaining of the year. If a topic/speaker is recommended then a meeting will be set up in one of
the established 2024 EDC calendar slots.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
Brian Beeman
Assistant City Administrator
The Mounds View Vision
A Thriving Desirable Community
Item #: 8A
Meeting Date: January 18, 2024
Type of Business: EDC
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Economic Development Commission
From: Brian Beeman, Assistant City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Reports of Staff
A. Rice Creek Commons (TCAAP) Development Update
In late spring of 2019 project engineers were in the process of plans for mass grading, utility installation,
and primary roadways on the site. This work was slated to be completed in 2019. Initially, the first phase
of housing and early commercial construction was expected to begin in 2020 and when fully realized, the
mixed-use development was expected to offer 1,460 housing units, support at least 4,000 living-wage
jobs, and generate approximately $8.6 million in property taxes annually. Ramsey County Commissioner
Nicole Joy Frethem met with the Mounds View City Council January 11, 2021 and stated that the law suit
is still in effect however, neither party is at liberty to mention any details of the lawsuit. However, she
stated that they feel progress is being made and they are nearing an agreement. As of November 2022,
all construction is still on hold. At the November 1, 2023 open house, the developer is proposing
additional density. The Arden Hills City Council did direct Staff to bring the necessary code amendments
through, which will happen in December 2023. In a perfect world, master development agreement
discussion will begin January 2024 with the goal of having a final agreement in 2024. For more
information: https://www.cityofardenhills.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09272023-1166
B. Mounds View Business Council Meeting
The next meeting will be held at Dalco Enterprises, Inc. in New Brighton Wednesday March 21, 2024
from 8:00-9:00 a.m. The Twin Cities North Chamber of Commerce has combined Mounds View with
New Brighton into one Business Council. All meetings are free and all EDC Members are encouraged
to attend. The featured speaker is from the MN Retailers Association and will be providing an update
on the retail industry as well as the new cannabis law updates for municipalities.
C. Long Lake Woods
Marty Harsted is moving forward in creating 12 new single-family residential lots. He would like to
break ground in 2024. He apparently has about four homes that would be built right away once the
development has been completed.
D. Tom Fields Estate
A developer had planned to purchase three lots from Tom Fields located across from Lambert Park to
construct three assisted living homes, however Mr. Fields has delayed the project. Therefore, the
developer has backed out of the project. Several more developers have inquired about these lots,
however the asking price is too high and they have backed out as well. This project is on hold until
the land owners agree to move forward.
E. Simon’s Building
The Simon’s property has been purchased by Sabry Shrara, the owner of Mounds View dentistry. He
initially, wanted to construct a new professional building consisting of a new dental office and two
additional suites to be leased to a future tenant with apartments on the upper levels. However, he
couldn’t get lending for that type of use, so he is reevaluating and the project is on hold until he can
get his current dental office build out completed near the movie theater.
Reports of Staff
January 18, 2024
Page 2 of 2
F. Kusina Restaurant
The Kusina Restaurant and Fillipino Village are taking advantage of a Critical Corridors grant through
Ramsey County to finish exterior painting of the entire building. They are hoping to get that
accomplished in the spring of 2024.
G. MV Square
Staff met with Paster Enterprises in September 2022 to seek their interest level in redeveloping the
Mounds View Square area. They see the potential need to redevelop the site. Staff met with Paster
Enterprises to brainstorm ideas. Then the City submitted and received a grant for $50,000 from
Ramsey County to help with redevelopment planning for this area. The City hired a consultant to
complete a market study and concepts for the site. Meetings were held at two City Council work
sessions and they also held a public engagement open house to capture comments from the public.
The City Council accepted the final findings and recommendations at its December 11, 2023 meeting.
It is up to Paster Enterprises to determine the next steps and what they will do if anything with the
property.
H. Forgivable Loan Program
The EDA offers three forgivable loan programs each year to local businesses in the amount of $5000
each. It is a first-come, first-served basis. As of January 10, 2024 all three loans have been fulfilled.
(Shifty’ s Barber Shop, Big Dipper Creamery, & Sandwich King) Since that time, two more loan
requests have come in. The other loan program is the Business Improvement Loan. When funded, it
allows businesses to apply for up to $50,000 for business improvements to the building, landscaping,
façade, signage, remodel, etc. This is a participation loan, meaning the EDA can approve up to
$25,000 at 2%, however the business must first find a participating lender to fund the first $25,000 for
a total of $50,000. The lender would set their own rates, but the EDA rate is set at 2%. The lender
would take first position, do the credit checks and due diligence and collect and keep track of
payments then disperse the EDA amount monthly. As of January 10, 2024, the EDA only has $9,000
remaining for this type of loan. The City also has three other loan programs for residential purposes.
I. Ardan Park & Greenfield Park Redevelopment
Wetland delineation studies were completed in the fall of 2022 on both sites. Several developers
showed interest and the Council ultimately chose Pulte Homes to develop market rate town homes as
per the City’s Strategic Plan. Since then, the Council voted against the development. The City is
currently researching wetland banking for that area and the possibility of a nature park.
J. EDA Property Acquisitions
The EDA recently acquired a single-family residential lot next to Steve’s Appliances with the idea of
rezoning to allow for a commercial use. The EDA also closes on a residential lot near American
National Bank January 19, 2024. The EDA has the same idea in mind for future commercial
redevelopment.
K. Other Upcoming Events/Reports
N/A
______________________________
Brian Beeman
Assistant City Administrator
Attachment(s): None