HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-07-2022 EDA Minutes
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Public Safety Building—Training Room, 825 41st Ave NE
Monday, November 07, 2022
5:00 PM
MINUTES
The meeting was called to order at 5:00 pm by Chair Szurek.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Connie Buesgens, Gerry Herringer, KT Jacobs, Amáda Márquez Simula, John
Murzyn Jr., Nick Novitsky, Marlaine Szurek
Staff Present: Kelli Bourgeois, City Manager; Aaron Chirpich, Community Development Director; Ben
Sandell, Communications Coordinator; Mitchell Forney, Community Development
Coordinator; Alicia Howe, Administrative Assistant
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approve the minutes of the special EDA Meeting of September 26, 2022
2. Approve financial reports and payment of bills of September 2022 – Resolution No. 2022-21
Herringer asked about the payment to Short Elliot Hendrickson regarding cell tower design and asked
why it was a reoccurring payment.
Chirpich stated this is the final payment for engineering and design ; the contractor was waiting to send
the final invoice as the City was waiting on AT&T to remove the temporary tower.
Herringer asked what the total project cost was for the cell tower. Chirpich stated that it was 1.2
million dollars.
Motion by Jacobs, seconded by Novitsky, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. All ayes of
present. MOTION PASSED.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-21
A RESOLUTION OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA,
APPROVING THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2022 AND THE PAYMENT
OF THE BILLS FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2022.
WHEREAS, the Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority (the “EDA”) is required by
Minnesota Statutes Section 469.096, Subd. 9, to prepare a detailed financial statement which shows all
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receipts and disbursements, their nature, the money on hand, the purposes to which the money on
hand is to be applied, the EDA's credits and assets and its outstanding liabilities; and
WHEREAS, said Statute also requires the EDA to examine the statement and treasurer's vouchers or
bills and if correct, to approve them by resolution and enter the resolution in its records; and
WHEREAS, the financial statements for the month of September 2022 have been reviewed by the EDA
Commission; and
WHEREAS, the EDA has examined the financial statements and finds them to be acceptable as to both
form and accuracy; and
WHEREAS, the EDA Commission has other means to verify the intent of Section 469.096, Subd. 9,
including but not limited to Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports, Annual City approved Budgets,
Audits and similar documentation; and
WHEREAS, financials statements are held by the City’s Finance Department in a method outlined by
the State of Minnesota’s Records Retention Schedule,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of the Columbia Heights Economic
Development Authority that it has examined the referenced fina ncial statements including the check
history, and they are found to be correct, as to form and content; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the financial statements are acknowledged and received and the check
history as presented in writing is approved for payment out of proper funds; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED this resolution is made a part of the permanent records of the Columbia
Heights Economic Development Authority.
ORDER OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Passed this 7th day of November, 2022
Offered by: Jacobs
Seconded by: Novitsky
Roll Call: All ayes of present.
Marlaine Szurek, President
Attest:
Alicia Howe, Secretary
BUSINESS ITEMS
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3. Façade Improvement Grant Report EDA, 11-7-22
Forney reported that for the third year in a row the Façade Improvement Grant program is
being offered on a first come first serve basis. The program was announced on social
media, email, and word of mouth from commissioners and Staff. Two applications were
presented to the commission.
Accessory City LLC: Accessory City is located at 556 40th Avenue NE. The proposed project
is to furnish and install a store front window on the first floor of the building. The owner
has submitted two bids, and the lowest bid sets the project cost at $6,235 which would
allow the owner to access a grant amount of $3,118.
Columbia Heights VFW Post 230: The VFW is located at 4446 Central Avenue NE, and the
proposed project includes removal of their existing pylon sign, installing new footings, and
installing a new 8-inch Schedule 40 pole with an 8’ by 8’ internally lit LED sign. The project
is estimated to cost $20,370, which would qualify the VFW for the full grant amount of
$5,000. The VFW received two quotes for what was suppo sed to be a reader board sign.
After learning that it was not possible, they shifted to the sign that is now being proposed.
Unfortunately, they have had difficulty getting a second quote on the new sign. It is
important to note that the VFW had received a façade grant in 2020. The 2020 grant
assisted with the remodeling of the east and northeast side of the building. In 2020 , the
VFW received the full grant amount of $5,000. This is the first time that a business has
received the full grant in the past and re-applied to the grant program. Staff would like to
further discuss how the EDA would like to handle these situations.
Questions/Comments from Members:
Jacobs asked what the black box to the left of where the proposed window for Accessory
City was in the applicant’s photo. Chirpich stated he believed it was an advertising board.
Jacobs stated she was concerned about how the EDA was going to handle approval of
businesses who already received a grant, and said it was setting a precedent if the
commission would move forward. She also said there was a non-conforming clause for the
VFW property and so if they add lighting to the new sign, then it steps outside of the
parameters for the grandfathering of the sign.
Chirpich provided background on the history of the lighting of the sign but stated it’s more
a zoning issue rather than something that should be considered for the grant process itself,
but said it was fair to discuss the impact.
Szurek said she thought if the pylon sign was replaced it needed to be changed to a
monument sign. Chirpich stated that they would not need to, but if the property sat vacant
for more than six months, then the use was no longer permitted, then they would need to
comply with the current regulations.
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Jacobs asked if this type of sign would be permitted elsewhere on Central Avenue that has
the same zoning. Chirpich stated it would be allowed but under different conditions, the
setback would be the biggest issue.
Jacobs further stated she believes that the pylon signs are not the type of signs the City
wants on Central Avenue to bring back a “community feel”.
Szurek stated that when she was on the Planning Commission they were trying to change
requirements to promote monument signs over pylon signs. Chirpich said he was aware of
zoning changes related specifically to electronic reader board signs in the City’s history, but
pylon signs are still allowed on Central Avenue so long as they do not include electronic
reader boards.
Chirpich made note of the “rights” for this specific application from the VFW, first,
regarding the replacement for the sign, and zoning, land use, and property rights, and
secondly, allowing a second application.
Jacobs expressed concerns about them applying again.
Márquez Simula said that she didn’t think it was an issue for them to apply again as it’s an
investment in their property in the City, which will help the appearance within the City. She
further stated that if there is a new business then they should be chosen over a previous
applicant if there are any limits on funds for that year.
Buesgens stated that the applicant may not have funds to do multiple projects at the same
time so they are prioritizing their projects and that each case should be treated
individually.
Chirpich said that in the facade program, it currently does not state a limit on the number
of times that a business can apply.
Novitsky agreed about considering a second application and if a new business was applying
versus a previous applicant.
Further discussion ensued regarding pylon signs within the City and the condition of many
current signs.
Herringer said he believed a new VFW sign would be a good improvement.
Herringer asked if the new sign is going to be attached to the building. Murzyn Jr. explained
the current condition of the sign and said that it is causing damage on the building because
the sign pole was hit by a vehicle years ago and now the sign frame is leaning against the
building. He stated that the new sign would be freestanding and not touching the bui lding.
Chirpich stated that the question of whether improvements need to be attached to the
building could be clarified in the application requirements for the future, but he believed
that the proposed sign meets the intent of the program because the sign is permanent.
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Motion by Buesgens, seconded by Novitsky, to waive the reading of Resolutions 2022-22
and 2022-23, there being ample copies available to the public. All ayes of present. MOTION
PASSED.
Motion by Buesgens, seconded by Jacobs, to adopt Resolution 2022-22, a resolution
approving the form and substance of the façade improvement grant agreement, and
approving authority staff and officials to take all actions necessary to enter the authority
into façade improvement grant agreements with the building owner of 556 40th Ave NE,
Columbia Heights, MN 55421. All ayes of present. MOTION PASSED.
Motion by Buesgens, seconded by Jacobs, to adopt Resolution 2022-23, a resolution
approving the form and substance of the façade improvement grant agreement, and
approving authority staff and officials to take all actions necessary to enter the authority
into façade improvement grant agreements with Columbia Heights VFW Post 230. A roll call
vote was taken. 6 Ayes, 1 Abstention (Murzyn Jr. abstained). MOTION PASSED.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-22
A RESOLUTION OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS,
MINNESOTA, APPROVING THE FORM AND SUBSTANCE OF THE FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT
GRANT AGREEMENTS, AND APPROVING AUTHORITY STAFF AND OFFICIALS TO TAKE ALL
ACTIONS NECESSARY TO ENTER THE AUTHORITY INTO THE FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT
GRANT AGREEMENTS WITH THE OWNER OF 556 40TH AVE NE, COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MN
55421.
WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights (the “City”) and the Columbia Heights Economic
Development Authority (the “Authority”) have collaborated to create a certain Façade
Improvement Grant Program (the “Program”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to guidelines established for the Program, the Authority is to award
and administer a series of grants to eligible commercial property owners and/or tenants for
the purposes of revitalizing existing store fronts, increasing business vitality and economic
performance, and decreasing criminal activity along Central Avenue Northeast, in the City’s
Central Business district, pursuant to a Façade Improvement Grant Agreement with various
property owners and/or tenants; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Program, the City is to coordinate a surveillance camera
monitoring program by placing surveillance cameras on some of the storefronts that are
part of the Program for the purposes of improving public safety in and around the Central
Business District, thus requiring a license agreement in addition to the grant agreements
(the “Grant Agreements”); and
WHEREAS, the Authority has thoroughly reviewed copies of the proposed forms of the
Grant Agreements.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that, after appropriate examination and due
consideration, the Authority 1. approves the form and substance of the Grant Agreements,
and approves the Authority entering into the Grant Agreements with the owner of 556
40th Ave NE. 2. that the City Manager, as the Executive Director of the Authority, is hereby
authorized, empowered and directed for and on behalf of the Authority to enter into the
various Grant Agreements. 3. that the City Manager, as the Executive Director of the
Authority, is hereby authorized and directed to execute and take such action as he/she
deems necessary and appropriate to carry out the purpose of the foregoing resolution.
ORDER OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Passed this 7th day of November, 2022
Offered by: Buesgens
Seconded by: Jacobs
Roll Call: All ayes of present.
Marlaine Szurek, President
Attest:
Alicia Howe, Secretary
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-23
A RESOLUTION OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS,
MINNESOTA, APPROVING THE FORM AND SUBSTANCE OF THE FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT
GRANT AGREEMENTS, AND APPROVING AUTHORITY STAFF AND OFFICIALS TO TAKE ALL
ACTIONS NECESSARY TO ENTER THE AUTHORITY INTO FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT GRANT
AGREEMENTS WITH VFW POST 230.
WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights (the “City”) and the Columbia Heights Economic
Development Authority (the “Authority”) have collaborated to create a certain Façade
Improvement Grant Program (the “Program”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to guidelines established for the Program, the Authority is to award
and administer a series of grants to eligible commercial property owners and/or tenants for
the purposes of revitalizing existing store fronts, increasing business vitality and economic
performance, and decreasing criminal activity along Central Avenue Northeast, in the City’s
Central Business district, pursuant to a Façade Improvement Grant Agreement with various
property owners and/or tenants; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Program, the City is to coordinate a surveillance camera
monitoring program by placing surveillance cameras on some of the storefronts that are
part of the Program for the purposes of improving public safety in and around the Central
Business District, thus requiring a license agreement in addition to the grant agreements
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(the “Grant Agreements”); and WHEREAS, the Authority has thoroughly reviewed copies of
the proposed forms of the Grant Agreements.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that, after appropriate examination and due
consideration, the Authority 1. approves the form and substance of the Grant Agreements,
and approves the Authority entering into the Grant Agreements with VFW Post 230. 2. that
the City Manager, as the Executive Director of the Authority, is hereby authorized,
empowered and directed for and on behalf of the Authority to enter into the various Grant
Agreements. 3. that the City Manager, as the Executive Director of the Authority, is hereby
authorized and directed to execute and take such action as he/she deems necessary and
appropriate to carry out the purpose of the foregoing resolution.
ORDER OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Passed this 7th day of November, 2022
Offered by: Buesgens
Seconded by: Jacobs
Roll Call: 6 Ayes, 1 Abstention (Murzyn Jr. abstained). MOTION PASSED.
Marlaine Szurek, President
Attest:
Alicia Howe, Secretary
4. Outstanding Business of the Year Award Creation
Forney reported that on October 11, 2022, the Communications Department approached
Community Development Staff wanting to expand on the City’s recognition of local citizens
and businesses. Ultimately, the Communications Department wanted to start an
Outstanding Business of the Year Award. Staff is coming forward with a recommendation
for the award criteria.
Mission: The purpose of the Outstanding Business of the Year Award is to recognize local
businesses for noteworthy accomplishments, long-standing contributions to the
community, and significant community service efforts.
Process: The Outstanding Business of the Year Award will follow a similar process and
timeline as the Outstanding Citizen Award. Nominations will be opened on January 1st of
each year and will be accepted until the last Wednesday in March. The nominations will
then be compiled and brought to the EDA meeting in April. The EDA will review the
nominees and vote on the business that is to be recognized. Recognition and the
presentation of a plaque will occur at the second City Council meeting in April. This also
allows Staff the necessary time to recognize the business in the summer newsletter.
Criteria: Nominated businesses will have to meet the criteria laid out in the nomination
form. Staff kept the base criteria vague so that a wide variety of businesses could apply.
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Staff believes that outside businesses should be able to be nominated. Columbia Heights is
a very tight knit community that has businesses located in Hilltop and surrounding towns
which contribute time and money to the community. Nominated businesses can receive
the award for: 1) being a long-standing business within the City of Columbia Heights,
reaching a milestone year, 2) having a major business expansion, remodel, exterior
renovation, landscaping improvements, or relocation to a new facility within the City , 3) a
major contribution to the community, or 4) other major accomplishments or contributions
worthy of recognition. Only for-profit businesses will be allowed to be nominated, and
Councilmembers and Staff will not be allowed to nominate a business to keep the process
impartial. If the EDA receives no viable applicants for a given year, the EDA can choose to
not select a winner.
Prizes: Similar to the Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award, the Outstanding Business of
the Year will be recognized at a Council meeting and will be given a plaque to memorize
the achievement. They will also receive free marketing at City events, on the City website,
in the summer edition of the newsletter (both electronic and paper), and on the reader
board signs outside of city hall and the liquor stores. Communications Coordinator Rotler is
also exploring the option of having the business in the jamboree parade. Staff believes this
is a great way to recognize local businesses while building relationships with those who are
nominated. Implementing this award would bring very little cost to the EDA but would be a
great recognition opportunity for the community.
Questions/Comments from Members:
Buesgens asked if a landlord would be considered a business. Forney said that a limited
liability corporation could be considered.
Buesgens asked if sustainability improvements could be added to the criteria. Forney said it
would fall under the criteria, but it could be highlighted further.
Jacobs asked if the library would be posting advertisement too. Forney said they will work
with the library or if they cannot reach an agreement, they will pull it from the application
information.
Rotler made note of how the City would advertise about the new recognition opportunity.
He stated that there would be announcements in the newsletter leading up to the
nomination period, they would also do social media posts, and put it on the website; they
would also announce it at events.
Jacobs asked if it could be incorporated in the newspaper because it is something new.
Rotler said he would make note of that recommendation.
Motion by Novitsky, seconded by Murzyn Jr., to create the Outstanding Business of the Year
Award and approve the nomination form as presented. All ayes of present. MOTION
PASSED.
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OTHER BUSINESS
Chirpich reminded the commission that November 15, 2022, was the Ratio Open House at 4:30 pm.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Jacobs, seconded by Márquez Simula, to adjourn the meeting at 5:46 pm. All ayes. MOTION
PASSED.
Respectfully submitted,
_______________________________
Alicia Howe, Administrative Assistant