05-17-2011 EDC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Commission Minutes May 17, 2011 Page 2 of 4 Tommy explained that the reason for looking at the potential of subdividing these lots is to induce growth, increase the tax base, and get the best return out of the infrastructure in the ground. Discussion was held about the water and sewer capacity. The question was asked whether there would be enough capacity if there were an en extra 80 users in the downtown and 30 users in industrial park. The question was also asked whether the WAC and SAC fees will cover the cost of an expansion. Sheila Haverkamp stated that the City should treat the industrial park as an asset. If this committee is in agreement,then the EDC should provide an overview showing what the industrial park could look like if the lots were divided. She suggested that EDC members visit the property owners and ask if they would be willing to develop their land. Discussion was held regarding the City offering incentives to facilitate the subdivisions of the land in the industrial park and in the downtown area. Sheila stated that if the EDC is supportive, we could draft a document explaining that the City is promoting the splitting of lots for higher density. The document should explain the process,the costs, and any incentives that would be involved. Patrick Smith stated that the subdivision process should be very clear. Tommy Woog suggested that the Planning Commission discuss the procedures for subdividing. Dawn Bittner suggested having someone visit each business to explain the purpose and procedure and to offer assistance to anyone who is interested. Sheila Haverkamp stated that the City needs to decide what it will offer, if anything as an incentive. Discussion was held about the sewer capacity being over 50%. Tina Nolden stated that the capacity is at 65%. She indicated that she would verify this percentage. The Commission questioned what happens when we get close to capacity. It was stated that when the Trailside Plat subdivision fills up,the sewer would be at about 75% capacity. Tommy Woog questioned the percentage of capacity for business versus residential. Ed Larsen suggested that the City needs a committee to begin looking at long term sewer and water needs. Mayor Adams stated that the City needs a long range Capital Improvement plan. Patrick Smith stated that we need to find out what our capacity is and study trends so we know how much capacity we will have in the future. Tina Nolden explained that prior to expanding the sewer plant the City would need a facility use plan completed. The EDC questioned why the plan has not been done at this point, especially since the Council approved the plan to be done in a phased-in three-year timeframe. The EDC