HomeMy WebLinkAboutLaurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes 08.03.2015 LURA Minutes—August 3,2015
In Attendance: Heidi Jensen,Greg Nelson, Richard Herr, Linda Frickel, Dean Rankin, Kent Harris,Steve Solberg,
Shirley Ewan, Monica Plecker,Judy Goldsby and Daniel Klein
Judy called the meeting to order at 11:05 introduced the meeting and a roll call was received for the record.
Dean Rankin motioned to approve the minutes from the previous meeting. Linda Frickel seconded the motion.
The motion carried.
Heidi reported on the current LURA projects that include striping on SE 4th Street and the Washington Storm
sewer project. For the striping project Heidi stated the pre-bid meeting was held last Wednesday and the bid
closes on August 6th.This would ensure construction by mid-September.
In relation to the Storm Sewer on Washington Avenue Heidi stated that the engineering and design was ready
for final design. Last week the City had some discussion on the size of pipe and agreed with negligible costs the
pipe should be bigger for anticipated growth.
Heidi said in other news,the railroad had awarded a contract to tear down the old Coast-to-Coast building and
the dilapidated grain elevators.A discussion on the Laurel Trading Post occurred. Greg Nelson recapped his
experience in visiting the building. In summary,the building does not appear to be structurally sound and he
was unable to make progress on acquiring the building.
Heidi also reported on the status of the Large Grants Program.Taco Bell is under construction,Cornerstone is
finalizing their loan,the Brewery has been paid and the Lambrecht's have expressed interest in a new project.
During new business Dean Rankin reported on the Canyon Creek Stations.There will be an open house held on
August 12 from 5-8pm.The facility has 24 units and artificial turf. He said the units are garnering a lot of
interest from tradesmen.
Steve Solberg referred back to the striping project. He is in favor of the project after a conversation with Kurt
Markegard. He still does not think the pedestrian facilities will be used. Ultimately,he felt there was a big lack
of public communication related to the project. He would like to see LURA and the City do a better job of
public involvement.
Daniel Klein inquired about the Revolving Loan Fund. Heidi stated that LURA will not be creating their own
loan,but will encourage people to utilize the county-wide revolving loan fund housed at BSEDA.
The City Clerk had nothing to report.
City Planner Monica Plecker reported that the Planning Board was reviewing the sign ordinance and
encouraged those who may be interested to participate at Thursday's Planning Board meeting.
The group discussed all of the active projects in the district.The group would like to see a press release
highlighting the work and project related to LURA.
The next meeting will be held on September 8.
Dan motioned to adjourn and Dean seconded.The meeting adjourned at 12:02
Respectfully submitted,
Monica Plecker