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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 [08] Aug 10 :!7~ -. . Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the Economic Development Authority for the City of St. Joseph met in regular session on Monday, August 10, 1998 at 8 :00 a.m. in the St. Joseph City Hall. Members Present: Chair Kenneth 1. Hiemenz. Board Members Ken Twit and Bruce Gohman. EDA Director Chad Carlson. Recording Secretary Judy Weyrens. Approve Minutes: Gohman made a motion to approve the minutes of July 15, 1998 as presented; seconded by Twit and passed unanimously by those present. 1999 Proposed Bucœet: Carlson presented the Board with a proposed budget. The overall budget has been increased by approximately 2%. Significant changes in the budget include a reduction in the budget category for Professional Services, as the fees originally budgeted in this category will be recaptured by the Tax Increment Financing deposit required by applicants and an increase in advertising/marketing category. Carlson also discussed the membership fees the St. Cloud Economic Development Partnership and the benefits received. He encouraged the EDA to continue membership, using them as a resource. The following is a summary of the proposed budget and past expenditures: 1997 Actual Expenditures: $ 35,629.07 1998 Budget $ 66,107.00 1998 Year to date Expenditures $ 22,821.79 . 1999 Proposed Budget $ 67,393.00 Gohman made a motion to recommend the Council approve the 1999 Budget for the Economic Development Authority in the amount of$ 67,393.00. The motion was seconded by Twit and passed unanimously by those present. Business Park Update: Carlson reported that the time table for Vic West Steel has changed and they are looking towards mid summer or fall 1999. The funding application to USDA has been forwarded and if the City receives an award letter, the money does not need to be expended immediately. In fact, it can be expended six to eight months after award. Twit questioned if the delay is a stall tactic ofVic West Steel and if they have committed to relocating. Carlson responded that he has prepared a letter of intent for Vic West Steel to sign. This letter is not a contract nor is it binding and has been prepared with the assistance of the Partnership and Ed Tschida. Carlson stated. that he has been working with Leo Buettner on completing the preliminary plat to be completed within the next four months. Additionally Carlson has been coordinating the Right of Way activities for the realignment of County Road 133. With regards to the realignment of County Road 133, Carlson stated alternative proposals are being considered for an east/west link to County Road 133 and hopefully this link will be part of the plat being prepared by Buettner. Gohman suggested moving the proposed east/west link southerly, By doing this the road would be straightened and parcel A would be enhanced. Board Members also discussed alternative roads to service the Borget property and adjacent properties. It may be beneficial to the City to redesign the road to tie into County Road 134. Hiemenz reported that the MN Transportation Alliance and MNDOT are looking at ways to reduce access to primary roads and encourage the use of frontage . roads. Also discussed was the use of stop lights to move traffic in a more efficient manner. Media Coverage: Carlson reported his disappointment in a recent article in the S1. Joseph Newsleader . where information was reported inaccurately. This mis-information has created a need for damage control with one of the local businesses. Carlson urged all Board Members to be cautious when discussing matters with the media. Proiect Updates: The task force reviewing future facilities for the City will make a presentation to the City Council on August 25, 1998. Carlson indicated that he has received information on a possible funding source which could be used to purchase land for a new facility. The funding is competitive and will be awarded in April 1999. Conference Request: Carlson presented Board Members with information regarding the Minnesota Development Conference scheduled for September 17 - 18 at the RiverCentre in 5t. Paul. Twit made a motion authorizing the attendance of two (2) members of the EDA to attend the Minnesota Development Conference. The motion was seconded by Gohman and passed unanimously by those present. Carlson reported on the recent certification program he attended focusing on Real Estate and Finances. The program was presented from the perspective of a developer. The course involved reading and interpreting appraisals and the specifics of Tax Credits, The program is sponsored by the Department of Trade and Economic Develop and they indicated that they may not offer the final course in 1999, Therefore, Carlson requested the Board authorize his attendance in 1998, Carlson stated that he is aware V'thatt)s budget will not fully support the total cost of the final course, so he has contacted the utility companies for funding assistance. At this time Carlson stated that he has received funding in the amount of$400,OO from Northern States Power. Board Members questioned the longevity of Carlson's employment if the Board approved the fmal course . and Carlson became a certified Economic Developer, Carlson stated that it is not his intent to leave. Further, he stated that he was offered a job with one of the surrounding communities who is in the process of forming an ED A and has turned down that offer. He further stated that he is committed to his position with St. Joseph, Gohman made a motion authorizing Carlson to attend the final coursework towards his certification. The motion was seconded by Twit and passed unanimously by those present. Other Matters: The Central MN Initiative Fund is seeking ideas to change their name, anyone who has ideas should contact Carlson. Adjourn: Twit made a motion to adjourn at 9:10 a,m.; seconded by Gohman and passed unanimously by those present, i ::l7i.~ Judy Weyrens ording Secretary .