Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012.03.12 EDA MinutesMINUTES FOR THE EDA MEETING OF MARCH 12, 2012 Miron called the meeting to order at 8:30 am. PRESENT: Arcand, Graff, Klein, Puleo, and Miron ABSENT: Bever and Denaway STAFF: Bryan Bear, City Administrator Rachel Juba, Planner APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR THE EDA MEETING OF FEBRUARY 13, 2012 Arcand made motion, Klein seconded, to approve minutes for the EDA meeting of February 13, 2012 All aye. Motion carried. UPDATE ON ROUNDABOUT CENTER ISLAND DESIGN The EDA discussed the possible roundabout at the intersection of 170th Street and TH61. The City Engineer provided a presentation on the project and outlined possibilities for the center island design. The EDA made a recommendation to the City Council to authorize preparation of concepts and associated costs for the design for its consideration. This item was considered at the March 5. 2012, City Council meeting, staff updated the EDA on the decision of the City Council. The City Council directed staff and WSB to develop options for the roundabout for consideration by the EDA and City Council. UPDATE ON HARDWOOD CREEK TRAIL The EDA discussed the railroad abandonment and the extension plans for Hardwood Creek Trail. The EDA also discussed the grade of the trail as it extends south of 1451h Street. The EDA made a recommendation to the City Council to direct staff to continue working with Washington County to ensure the grade of the trail will be consistent with the rest of the trail to ensure accessibility and visibility for businesses. This item was considered at the March 5. 2012, City Council meeting, staff updated the EDA on the decision of the City Council. The City Council accepted the EDA and Parks Commission recommendation and directed staff to work with Washington County in planning the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail extension from 145th Street to 140th Street and ensure that it has the proper grade to be accessible and that the grade and tree line to remain south of CSAH 8 to continue to provide a buffer for the residential neighborhood. KIDZ Y BIZ SPONSORSHIP REOUEST On April 21, 2012, the 8th Annual Kidz n' Biz Fest will be take place at Oneka Elementary School. This annual event is an opportunity for the HBA and Hugo EDA to directly connect with the Hugo families and children in a PTA Carnival atmosphere. This event is expected to attract more than 500 Hugo children and their families; and will once again feature an assortment of games presented by the Hugo businesses with assistance from the White Bear School District. Last year the EDA sponsored the event in the amount of $750. The HBA asked the EDA to sponsor in that same amount again for 2012. Klein made a motion, Arcand seconded, to make a recommendation to the City Council for the EDA to sponsor Kidz n' Biz Fest in the amount of $750. All aye. Motion carried. UPDATE ON DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT Staff updated the EDA on the Metropolitan Grant that was awarded in December 2011. The property owner continues work with the City in completing the grant funded activities. One of the items that will be evaluated is stormwater management. The Ricci's property will be coming on the market again soon, after the new bank evaluates the appraisal of the property. City Administrator, Bryan Bear, updated the EDA on an effort to attract data centers by Greater MSP. They are looking for information on properties that may be suitable in the region for data centers. They are looking for property that has access to fiber, water, and dual power, as well as a secure location away from hazards. Staff has met with both Connexus Energy and Xcel Energy on what they have to offer for power to data centers. Miron asked about data center demographics. Staff stated that they need a lot of building space, cooling systems, and do not usually employ over 20-25 people. Graff talked about data centers within the 3M complex and that they are interesting to tour. Staff stated that the Xcel training center site plan applications are on upcoming Planning Commission and City Council agenda for formal approval. The plans are for a 20,000 square foot building with associated outdoor training areas. Klein asked staff to bring in Xcel Energy Inc representatives after their formal site plan approval. OPEN DISCUSSION Miron asked the members of the EDA if there were items that they would like to see upcoming agendas. Graff stated that he would like to discuss the City's regulations for businesses. Klein stated that he would like to discuss development of an industrial park with an emphasis on a specific trade. Miron asked staff to provide an update to the EDA on the 2012 road projects. ADJOURNMENT Puleo made a motion, seconded by Graff, to adjourn at 10:00 am. All aye. Motion carried.