11-21-2017 EDC Meeting Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Commission Minutes November 21, 2017 Page 2 of 4 ----------------------------------------------------------- Sheila Haverkamp noted BLAEDC completed a study of the existing Business Park approximately 10 years ago; this information does need to be updated. This 80 acre site was identified as the location to expand the Business Park in a study completed by Charles Marohn who was the Planning Consultant for the City. It wasn't a viable solution at the time. Does this site make sense toda.y for Business Park expansion? It is highly visible, flat, open land. The City does have opportunities such as a Business/Industrial Park, a business opportunity such as a hotel, recreational ball fields, or some other recreational type of activity, or move toward a technology park creating a sense of campus. Sheila Haverkamp reviewed the email provided regazding the potential land uses. T`he EDC should brainstorm all of the potential land uses for this area, determine the �' benefits of each use and create a matrix of pros and cons of each use. She further stated if the City desires a Business Park expansion,they need to plan for the long ' term. Business Parks are not going to net a fast return on investment. When a11 of the information is collected a recommenda.tion can be made to the City Council. Then i the City would need to deternune how to mazket the vision. Justin Burslie asked Ms. Haverkamp wha.t the vacancy rate is of business parks in the region. Ms. Haverkamp stated pre-2008 there was a definite need for more to meet the demand. In the last 10 years this has come to a halt. John Babinski sta.ted all of their rental properties aze full, but didn't know if there is a need for more industrial. Commissioner Holley stated industrial expansion brings people in but there are not that many vacancies for housing for medium incomes and , retirees. Commissioner Clement stated she has been told nice housing, no maintenance, with homeowners associations are difficult to find. Mr. Babinski sta.ted there really are no newer, nice areas for housing. It would bring a lot of families to Pequot Lakes. Chris Monroe inquired if a community center has ever been a discussion point. She has heard this request while visiting Chamber Members. Mayor Adams sta.ted this is something everyone wants but no one wants to pay for it. Mayor Adams further asked what type of use is going to provide the most tax base. Mr. Babinski stated it would be nice to see ball fields, housing and commercial, but do you want to put housing next to a Business Park? Is there another location for housing? Chair Jurchen stated ball fields could show quality of life. A huge server fann could tie into technology. Commissioner Lindholm stated the school has seen a population increase in the secondary level, over 50 families a year are looking to move here. They want nice housing. He doesn't feel this location is good for housing. The parents aze looking