2011.05.09 EDA Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner Denaway asked about the cost per square foot to construct the building. The development team stated approximately $150 per square foot. Commissioner Granger, who is on a temporary leave, was in the audience and stated that event space does not have a lot of cash flow, but maybe the shell can be constructed and the build outs can be sold. This will need to move quick since the bridge construction across I -35E is almost complete. Commission Klein asked the development team what their biggest hurtle has been. The development team stated the location has been struggle, but they feel the area and location has high potential. Commissioner Arcand asked if free land would bring a restaurant to this location. The development team stated that free land does have an impact, but a public/private partnership may be more enticing. EDA President Miron stated that the purchase agreement assumes the City will be a partner is some way, whether is TIF or a reduction of the purchase price. He stated that this issue will need further discussion. Commissioner Granger and Miron stated that would involve presenting numbers as to what the cost would be to the City. There would need to be discussions with the Finance Director and discussion on the administration. The EDA stated that they appreciated the work and innovation the development team has been doing for the property. Graff made a motion, seconded by Bever, to extend the purchase agreement for one year. All aye. Motion carried. DISCUSSION ON FLEXIBLE OFFICE SPACE Graff made a motion, seconded by Klein, to table this item until the next meeting. All aye. Motion carried. DISCUSSION ON COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DESIGN GUIDELINES The EDA reviewed the draft commercial and industrial design guidelines. The EDA discussed four sided architecture and wanted to ensure that buildings that were close together and sides of buildings that are not easily seen have flexibility on four sided design. Staff stated that as long as the architectural elements are wrapped around the building and designed properly there is some flexibility. The guidelines allow flexibility for industrial buildings in regards to areas with loading docks that may already be screened with berms or landscaping. Commissioner Puleo asked about flexibility on specialty types of operations that are allowed in commercial districts, for example greenhouses. Staff stated that most specialty types of businesses are only allowed with a conditional use permit and staff would work with the applicant at that time on meeting the guidelines. In the case of greenhouses, the intent of Section 90-256 Plant Nurseries is to allow landscaping plants, shrubs, and trees, to be grown as an agricultural activity. DISCUSSION ON TAX ABATEMENT