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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 [12] Dec 03 .' " --v- Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the Economic Development Authority for the City of St. Joseph met in regular session on Wednesday, December 3, 1997 at 8:00 a.m. in the St. Joseph City Hall. Members Present: Chair Kenneth J. Hiemenz. Board Members Bruce Gohman, Mike Deutz, Kenneth Twit, Ross Rieke. EDA Director Chad Carlson. Recording Secretary Judy Weyrens. Others Present: Ellen Wahlstrom. Minutes: Gohman made a motion to accept the minute of November 12, 1997 as presented; seconded by Rieke. Ayes: Hiemenz, Gohman, Rieke, Deutz. Nays: None Abstain: Twit EDA Director Reports Railroad Update: Carlson and Hiemenz reported on the status of securing an additional Railroad crossing. Hiemenz stated that during his discussion with railroad representative Spencer Arndt, Hiemenz requested two additional crossings, one for the extension of 4th Avenue NE and one for the realignment of County Road 133. According to Mr. Arndt, the City will be allowed the additional crossings with the understanding that if the buyer of the Rail Corridor needs the rails, the City will incur all costs of replacement. Hiemenz hopes to have the necessary paper work in December. Financial Consultant: Carlson stated that Ed Tschida could not attend this meeting and is requesting the Board consider scheduling an evening meeting due to the distance he must travel. Gohman suggested the Board consider scheduling an afternoon meeting. He stated he would have scheduling problems if the meeting were in the evening. The Board generally agreed to schedule an early afternoon meeting with Tschida when Carlson feels it would be appropriate. Industrial Park Land: Carlson stated that he contacted the City Attorney and discussed alternatives available to the EDA for land purchase. The Attorney advised that a municipality cannot extend a contract for deed past a five (5) year term. Carlson also expressed concern with regard to lot prices that would need to charged to recapture the land costs and improvements. He stated that the City needs to have lots with competitive prices if they are to sell. Carlson stated that he has been contacted by Dr. Koening who also has land in the Industrial Park and he expressed interest in selling such to the City. Koening indicated he currently owns 40 acres. Business Contacts: CJ St. Cloud Cartographic: Jeff Erpple has been working with Carlson and is interested in purchasing the Roske Property north of the Fire Hall. The proposed financial package includes: Bank Loan, DTED loan through the City, participation in Tax Abatement (through the City), a grant from the Central Minnesota Initiative Fund and a company contribution of 10%. CJ Meyer Commercial: Contacted Carlson with a company looking for one (1 ) acre of land to develop. CJ Office Space: Carlson stated that he has been contacted by three (3) separate business looking for office space to rent. The space they are looking for is relatively small. Due to this request and lack of available space, Carlson is looking into the possibility of seeking a - developer who would be willing to construct on office building. The Board indicated a good location for such would be the Roske property lot abutting the Wahlstrom Property. This a - small piece of property that would be suitable for a strip mall. December 3, 1997 Page 1 0/2 ..., Former Bank Buildino: The City Council is requesting input and review from the EDA on the possible purchase of the Historic Bank building on Minnesota Street for a Museum. The matter was turned to the EDA as this body has the ability to purchase land. Carlson stated that the City Attorney has drafted a set of bylaws for a non profit organization, Museum Board. Board Members felt this matter would best be decided by a cross range of people from the College of St. Benedict, St. John's University, City of St. Joseph and Township of St. Joseph. Therefore, the Board is making no recommendation at this time and turning the matter back to the City Council. Twit left at 8:50 a.m, Citv Complex: Carlson and Hiemenz reported the City has been approached by the American Legion about the possibility of the City purchasing the building. The Legion is exploring the possibility of constructing a larger facility as they are currently land locked. A larger facility would allow the Legion to provide banquet services. Hiemenz stated that he has requested the City Engineer to complete a preliminary study to determine if the building would serve the needs of the City. EDA Director - Completion of Introductorv Period: Carlson stated that he has completed the Introductory Period as outlined in the Personnel Policy and questioned the Board about the wage increase associated with such. The Board agreed to conduct a performance review and act on the matter at the January meeting. 1998 Cost of Livino Increase: Deutz made a motion to increase the salary of the EDA Director at the same rate the Council increases the wages for the non union City employees. The motion was seconded by Rieke and passed unanimously by those present. Deutz discussed with the Board Members a bill he received from the City regarding the construction of his car wash. He stated that he was charged to cap a water line that served the existing house and felt this charge should be absorbed by the City. Gohman stated it is common for these types of charges to be assessed to the property owner. Typically City's only pay for costs associated with the main line. Board Members agreed this is a Council issue and will not take any action, Adiourn: Deutz made a motion to adjourn at 9:15 a.m.; seconded by Rieke and passed unanimously by those present. Judy Weyrens Recording Secretary - Do<ombe13. 1997 P8ge 2 of 2