04-21-2020 EDC Meeting Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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EDC Minutes Apri121, 2020 Page2of7 ----------------------------- Mark Jurchen asked for clarification on the population of 8,000 for Pequot Lakes in the packet. Ms. Malecha stated that she questioned that also and she stated that is for the Pequot Lakes zip code. Chair Lindholm inquired about the map not reflecting the most recent zoning change. Ms. Malecha stated that the City is trying to update maps annually and once that gets updated it will be added to the packet. Commissioners Lelwica asked if there been any movement on the access from old 371/Patriot Avenue to this property. Ms. Malecha stated that she has not reached out to the DNR as she is waiting to see what transpires with the discussions befinreen the School District, the City and ICS Consulting. 5. Welcomina Communitv Advocacv Group Update Ms. Malecha informed the EDC that she received an email from Dawn Espe with Region 5 and due to the pandemic and stay at home order they are pausing the Welcoming Community Advocacy Group until June 15t in order to give the communities a chance to focus on emerging needs among organizations, businesses, schools and families. Ms. Malecha stated that she would like to get the contact information for the people discussed for the Advocacy Group. 6. Pepuot Lakes Incentive Pro4ram & Housina Update Mark Jurchen stated that on March 18th he had a meeting with several realtors. He stated Jim Fogarty said that he is getting a lot of requests for homes similar to the ones by Pequot Lake's business park where they have two units or twin homes on smaller lots so there is very little yard work and upkeep. He stated they may be rentals or owned by one party and rented out to the other. He said Mr. Fogarty thought they would be good for older adults and are similar to what is being sought after at this time. He stated that he knows of a few people that wanted to stay in Pequot Lakes but could not find housing. He said that people are looking for units that are 1,500 to 2,000 square feet priced in the $175,000 to $250,000 range. Mr. Jurchen said that there is a need all over the spectrum from small homes that are retirement homes or starter homes to larger homes with the price ranging from $150,000 to $450,000. He pointed out that having the ability to hook up to the Internet and high-speed is very important. He said if there are not the internet speeds needed then the sale does not go through and they will look elsewhere. Mr. Jurchen stated there needs to be further research done relating to rental vs homeownership. He said further research is needed with some of the major apartments and rentals in town to find out where we are at with vacancy levels. Commissioner Lelwica stated that at meeting several months ago it was said that Babinski apartments always have vacancies and are maybe 75%full most times therefore she believes that we are covered for those types of rentals but we may need to look at rentals for new teachers coming into the area with families that do not want to buy something in their first year. Discussion ensued about