2018.01.29 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Parks Plan. The Parks Plan is a chapter of the City's Comprehensive Plan and is one of the chapters that will likely see major revisions when the comp plan is updated. The Parks Commission has begun this process with approval expected this spring. Administration and Planning: Downtown Hugo. Following the completion of the downtown market study, we know that commercial development in downtown is viable. Staff anticipates continuing to spend time in 2018 meeting with people who are interested in development within downtown. The Council and Planning Commission have also determined that the downtown design guidelines are still a proper guide for new development in the downtown area. The EDA has approved a marketing plan that is being implemented by staff. Staff will continue to facilitate discussions between landowners to promote the private redevelopment of the old stock lumber site. Collaboration with others. We will continue to seek ways to provide improved municipal services at a lower cost where possible by combining efforts with other entities. Washington County has completed a study of Economic Development services and has hired a full time staff person who has been collaborating with us. The Building Department continues to provide full time building permit and inspection services for the City of Scandia, and part time for other cities. The City has strong working relationships with a multitude of organizations and agencies throughout the region. Development. Staff is closely monitoring the pace of development activity which has been increasing recently. Some ongoing development projects include Adelaide Landing, Prairie Village, Victor Gardens North Village, Clearwater Cove, The Good Life Senior Living, Schweiters, TGK Auto, Creekside Heights, Fable Hills, Leroux Property Development, and others. There is significant interest in vacant, undeveloped land parcels as well. Facilities. In early 2018, staff anticipates hiring an architect to perform a space needs study of city facilities, including a review of expansion at Public Works, remodeling of the front lobby at City Hall, and the evaluation of the Fire Hall. A new roof and HVAC mechanical equipment will be installed at the Fire Hall in spring 2018. White Bear Lake School Facilities. The school district is evaluating their own facility needs in response to growth within the district, including Hugo. There has been significant discussion between While Bear Lake School Administration and Hugo staff about the need for additional school buildings. It is possible that new school location(s) will be identified in 2018. Technology. The staff continues implementation of a document imaging system. Much of this conversion to electronic files has been complete, which is improving the way that service is delivered. Staff is beginning the implementation of a new permitting software that will allow for electronic submittals of permits and plans. We expect the system to be in place by mid -2018. When complete, much of the transactional business that must now occur at the front counter, will now occur on-line instead. New equipment that has been installed in the conference room, and at the front counter has been helpful during meetings and interactions with the public. Comprehensive Plan. This will be a major effort for the Council, Commissions and City staff throughout 2018. We anticipate approval of the plan to occur by mid -2018 with formal submission to the Met Council by the end of the year.