08-18-2020 EDC Meeting Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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EDC Minutes � August 18, 2020 Page 2 of 4 ----------------------------- 5. Workforce Housinq Studv Chair Lindholm shared that at the July 19, 2020 meeting the Commission was presented the information regarding the Workforce Housing Study, which allows us to figure out our next steps. Chair Lindholm stated we, as a City and Commission, are heading in the right way to start 6. Peauot Lakes Housin4 Inventorv— Mark Jurchen Mr. Jurchen presented the housing inventory of vacant lots and homes that either need to be rehabbed or torn down to create better housing. Mr. Jurchen stated they tried to identify two areas within the housing inventory: (1)those with existing water and sewer and (2)those with at least a paved road within a short distance to keep investment by city for infrastructure at a minimum. Commissioner Lelwica said she would like to start by thanking Mr. Jurchen for putting together this inventory. She stated the City of Pequot Lakes lacks housing for individuals who work within our City. Commissioner Lelwica would like to explore possible incentives for builders and/or homeowners to rehab their homes or build new construction. Commissioner Rieck stated the City of Pequot Lakes did try to apply for the Small Cities Grant Program, however there was a lack of interest for the program. The City of Pequot Lakes will attempt to get the program again next year for our residents. Mr. Jurchen stated we need to consider engaging pa�tners such as government, realtors, and contractors to try to brainstorm on possible ways to improve our housing inventory within Pequot Lakes. Chair Lindholm inquired about the Preserve Golf Course development. Mr. Jurchen stated that there is a 14unit development going up there, however, we need to see where our moneys need to be spent. Mr. Jurchen said that there needs to be a look at how we can bring in a larger tax base. Chair Lindholm inquired how do we get to individuals who own multiple lots before they list these properties. Mr. Jurchen said if the task force could possibly start talks with property owners now, in the future there could be a real opportunity for the City. Commissioner Lubke inquired if this should be more the responsibility of the Housing 8 Redevelopment Authority(HRA)than the EDC to find the housing options. Mr. Jurchen stated one of the key elements of the housing inventory is to involve the Housing & Redevelopment Authority in the task force to not just manage the properties but to start researching housing opportunities within the City of Pequot Lakes.