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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01.28.08 EDA Packet . AGENDA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY January 28, 2008 -7:00 p.m. City Council Chambers. City Hall 1. Call Meeting to Order (7 :00 D.m.l~ ~;" Members Todd Arey (Chair) 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Approve Agenda Paul Hardt (Vice Chair) 4. Citizens Comments/Presentations Erik Starkman 5. Consent Agenda (see attached) a. Bills b. November 26, 2007 Minutes c. November Budget Details Yvonne Flaherty Chad Collignon Christy Jo Fogarty City Council 6. Public Hearings (None) . David McKnight City Council 7. Unfinished Business a. Work Plan Update (see attached, Lisa) (7:15 D.m.) Peter Herlofsky City Administrator 8. New Business a Joint Workshop (see attached, Lisa) b. CDA Housing Rehab Summary (see attached, Tina) c. Certificate of Completion (see attached, Tina) d. Rental Property Update (see attached, Tina) e. School and Conference (see attached, Tina) City Staff Representatives Tina Hansmeier Economic Development Specialist 325 Oak Street Farmington, MN 55024 9. City Staff Reports a. Economic Update, see attached b. Downtown Idea Exchange, see attached c. 2007 Business List reports, see attached Lisa Dargis Administrative Assistant Phone: 651.463.7111 http://www.cLfarmington.mn.us 10. Adjourn . The Farmington EDA's mission is to improve the economic vitality of the city of Farmington and to enhance the overall quality of life by creating partnerships, fostering employment opportunities, promoting workforce housing and by expanding the tax base through development and redevelopment. :; 0; . ;;; CIl N Cl ~ If. ~I~ ~ o .q- oo:i E .... .... <( .!!l '" Z CO ~ ~ 8 -- '" ~ t:: E 0 0- E e ~ ::J c; Vl 0:: "" it lil ...:. .t:: u. u 8 0 'u ~ u >- c: ii: I- 5 ~ il~ t3 u ~ .c ...J o W I- Z W :; D.. o ...J W > W o u :E o z o u ~ :I: . o ...J :; ~ ~ u ~ >- Cl 0:: W z .gl~ ~ ~ '" . o '" ~ ~ c; Q) Cl <0 n. _10 0 CO CO CO " 0 0 " . 0 ...: ...: ...: o 0 E 0 0 It) It) It) <( ~ '" C') C') It) ;i -<i C') C') Ul OJ DO ~ 0 ~ . ~ 0 0 0- m ~ & E E ~ z " C; ~ (/) a:: -'" (/) u <( ~ Q) .... .t:: 0 t? u. 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Call Meeting to Order The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Arey at 7:00 p.m. Members Present: Arey, Flaherty, Starkman, Hardt, Fogarty, McKnight, Collignon Members Absent: None Also Present: Tina Hansmeier-Economic Development Specialist, Lisa Dargis- Administrative Assistant, Lee Smick-City Planner, Peter Herlofsky-City Administrator, Richard Fursman-Global Synergy Group, Kevan Soderberg-Mayor, David Pritzlaff-City Council Member, Roz Peterson-Cerron Commercial Properties, Doug Bonar-ISD #192, Jim Norman-Norman and Associates, Bruce Maus-Maus Group, Jim McComb-McComb Group Ltd., John Kelly-Campbell Knutson, Steve MacIntosh 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Approve Agenda MOTION by Hardt, second by McKnight to approve the agenda. APIF, MOTION CARRIED. 4. Citizen's Comments/Presentations a.) Letter from Farmington Downtown Business Association The Farmington Downtown Business Association has requested a donation in the amount of $500 from the EDA to support upcoming downtown events. Member Starkman asked if the HRAlEDA has made charitable contributions of this type in the past. Staff replied that this has not been the practice and it has not been budgeted for, but it is allowed by the EDA's charter. City Administrator Herlofsky stated that the City of Farmington has offered as many resources as possible to help support events downtown, short of offering donations and will continue to provide support whenever possible. Mayor Soderberg stated that CEEF has donated $200 to the group with some stipulations. Member Hardt stated that perhaps in 2008 the EDA could consider budgeting some resources for events of this type but this request is not currently budgeted for. Member Fogarty stated that she felt that the Economic Growth Committee would be a more appropriate group to solicit this type of funding from. Member McKnight stated that he would be willing to match CEEF's offer and he would be willing to do this for other parts of town on a one time basis if they requested funding. Chair Arey stated that he did not feel that the EDA should be setting this type of precedent. There was no motion made to donate the requested funding. 5. Consent Agenda EDA Minutes November 26, 2007 Page 2 a.) Bills b.) October 22, 2007 Minutes c.) October Budget Details MOTION by Flaherty, second by Hardt to approve the consent agenda. APIF, MOTION CARRIED. 6. Public Hearings None 7. Unfinished Business a.) Exchange Bank As was discussed at the October EDA meeting, the owner of the Exchange Bank: building is in default of his Contract for Private Sale. Mr. John Kelly from Campbell Knutson stated that the deed that was part of the escrow agreement is unsigned so there would be additional costs for pursuing this remedy. He stated that the EDA could sue Mr. Brown to force him to execute the deed and enforce the terms of the contract. The deed was not recorded or signed with Dakota County Abstract. There has been no evidence provided by Mr. Brown proving that he has spent $300,000 in improvements to the property so he may be in default for this as well. Mr. Kelly stated that there is a potential for this lawsuit to drag out for quite some time. Member Collignon asked if the HRAlEDA has set any type of precedent regarding notice of default. Mr. Kelly stated that the EDA only needs to provide notice of default; there is no precedent set if a default has been forgiven in the past. The wording in the most recent notice of default serves as a final notice. Member Flaherty asked if there is a statutory remedy that may have a fee shifting provision. Mr. Kelly stated that unless you contract for legal fees and costs they are typically not included. The contracts will need to be recorded against the title if the originals can be located. Staff will continue to proceed on this matter with legal council. b.) Market Study The market study consultants, Bruce Maus and Jim McComb gave a presentation detailing the results of the study and their recommendations. The information presented provided an overview of commercial and industrial growth potential and projections. The final draft of the report will be available for purchase at City Hall and made available on the City's website and at the Dakota County Library. c.) Riste Demolition Change Order Two change orders have been received for the Rise demolition project. One change order is for $3,300 for additional fill and the second change order is a credit in the amount of$700 pertaining to the abatement that was done in the building. The overall project costs came in well under budget from what was projected. Chair Arey stated that he noticed a piece of tar paper hanging from the . . . . EDA Minutes November 26, 2007 Page 3 side ofthe adjacent Larson building. Staffwill determine how the debris can be removed. Member Starkman asked ifthere has been any discussion regarding the building on the other side ofthe Riste site. The building is owned by Excel Energy and staff has contact information for the company but they are currently still using the site. MOTION by Collignon, second by Hardt to approve the change orders. APIF, MOTION CARRIED. 8. New Business a.) CDBG FY08 Application Staff is recommending allocation amounts for the 2008 CDBG funding that the City of Farmington receives from the Dakota County Community Development Agency. The recommendation is for 50% of the funding to be allocated to the CDA's Housing Rehabilitation Loan Fund and 50% to be allocated to the Commercial Rehab activity fund. Chair Arey asked ifthere was any information available for what last year's allocated Housing Rehab funding was used for. Staffwill obtain a breakdown from the CDA for the EDA to review. MOTION by Starkman, second by McKnight to allocate the 2008 CDBG funding per staffs recommendation. APIF, MOTION CARRIED. . b.) CDBG Business Reinvestment Loan Program Staff has created a loan program that would utilize CDBG Commercial Rehab funding. The Business Reinvestment Loan Program would be available to local business owners who wish to make fa<;ade, code or accessibility improvements to their existing buildings. The funds originate from the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development and as such, are subject to HUD guidelines. The loan program will be funded with existing, underutilized CDBG Commercial Rehab funds from 2004 and a portion of the funds allocated for 2008. Staffwill begin marketing the program to area banks and businesses in December and the program will officially begin after the first of the year. Chair Arey asked why the funds have been underutilized. Staff stated that the funds were originally allocated in 2004, but there was no loan/grant program in place at that time to distribute the funds. Chair Arey asked if we could make changes to the program. Staff stated that each year we would be able to re-examine the program and determine if it is still appropriate. . c.) 2008 Work Plan Based on the results ofthe EDA visioning sessions and the market study; staffhas created a draft work plan for the first half of2008. The work plan indicates the areas offocus for staff to support the strategies that were identified in the economic development chapter for the 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update. In support of Policy #1 (Downtown Development and Redevelopment) staffwill begin the process of engaging stakeholders in the delineation and design standards for the downtown. With regard to Policy #2 (Industrial Park Development) staff will begin implementing a business retention and expansion program and EDA Minutes November 26, 2007 Page 4 . promotion of industrial property. Member Hardt asked how we would be tying the results of the market study to the ongoing activities. Staff will be using the information from the study and the comprehensive plan chapter to evaluate activities and will be providing feedback indicating how the work plan supports the EDA's priorities. 9. City Staff Reports/Discussion Fiscal Disparities Handout - Information received. Economic Update - Information received. There was discussion regarding investigation of options for the temporary use of the open lots downtown. Staffwill continue to explore possibilities to utilize the spaces until they are developed. Staff is still working with the arts council to determine if they are interested in the space that was formerly the downtown liquor store. 10. Adjourn MOTION by Starlanan, second by Hardt to adjourn at 9:24 p.m. APIF, MOTION CARRIED. ResI>~ct H~ submitted, / lC~~?~ ~ Lisa Dargis J Administrative Assistant . . ;Jl; ... ~ !l *** ** !l *'tf!.fi!.#.#.#.'#.fi!. #.#.t1. * ~~~~~~~ ." ~~~~~~8~ "''''M ~ > ~...'" #. 'a) *~ ~~~~tO~ci~ "":a:;itO :8 ~ Oiil(;iljfii~~ <0... ill ... '" <0 '" '" 8re:g~~g~ .~~~~~~~~ ii>'M,...;::- iO co,...,...,.... '" OC"J co OJ NlOlO ~-C"tt:.' '''' " ~ ~-~~ Il ~~ ~ :::. '" ~ " 0: 0: .. .. 1ij 1ij lD lD .. .. .. .. t:C:;Cb~g~ U)_ccC")C')o '" co(")("),.... :8 lOlt)I'-"'lt'<tO ... _NN..... I _~....~ 0). N "l ...... NO\MC'1 ..... ~ N.....COl'- 0 ~ M<O'" "'''' ~ sf~ .: N ~ '" '" ... NM I- .. .. .. ... ~ <0 ~ ... 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Fax 651.463.2591 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: EDA Members FROM: Lisa Dargis, Administrative Assistant SUBJECT: Work Plan Update DATE: January 28, 2008 INTRODUCTION Staff is providing an update on activities related to the EDA's priorities as identified in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. . DISCUSSION Staff has been actively working to support several of the strategies that were developed as a result of the identification of priority items in the EDA's Comprehensive Plan Chapter. This report includes a brief description of the initiated/ongoing activities and indicates to which strategies they relate. Please see the attached report. ACTION REQUESTED This item is for information only. ;JS.:~~~~~t . . fI . . Economic Development Work Plan Activities Business Outreach Program Marketing Materials Workshop Land Evaluation Staff has initiated Business Outreach visits and is documenting pertinent information obtained from each visit. The primary focus of these initial visits is introductory in nature but affords staff and business owners the opportunity to discuss any concerns or issues that they might have. Attached is the draft copy of the Business Outreach Program as it has been laid out thus far. This activity supports the business retention and expansion strategies that were identified for all three areas of focus. Staff is currently updating the marketing folder that was created in October 2007 to include information received as part of the market study. Staff is looking into professional printing of the materials as well as creation of a brochure to be given to business owners as part of the Business Outreach visits. A meeting has been scheduled with representatives from the City of Faribault to discuss the creation of their award winning marketing materials and obtain any information that might be beneficial as we expand our marketing program. This activity supports the marketing strategies identified under Policy 2 (Industrial Development) and will be expanded to support promotion of infill development under Policy 1 (Downtown Development and Redevelopment. A workshop has been scheduled for February 11th to begin the process of delineating the downtown commercial district. The workshop will include members of the various boards and commissions and the City Council. This activity supports Policy 1 (Downtown Development and Redevelopment). Staff is compiling information regarding the properties that have been identified as industrial in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. The information will provide data that can be used to begin discussion of land assembly options for an additional industrial park area in the city. This activity supports Policy 2 (Industrial Development). Downtown Sign Staff is obtaining estimates and developing a business plan to explore reconfiguring the Downtown Business sign located at 2nd and Elm Streets. The cost of converting a portion of the sign to an electronic LED message center and potential addition of emblems for the community's service organizations are being explored. This activity supports Policy 1 (Downtown Development and Redevelopment). Incentive Programs Staff is researching possible programs that might offer incentives for existing businesses to expand or for new businesses to locate within the city. This activity supports all three areas of focus. Incubator Space Staff is gathering information with regard to creation of an incubator space in either the downtown or the industrial park. Staff will be meeting with representatives from Dakota County Technical College's Entrepreneurship Institute to discuss a possible partnership in this area. This activity supports Policy 1 (Downtown Development and Redevelopment) and Policy 2 (Industrial Development). . . . Business Outreach Visits Purpose To introduce City Economic Development Staff to local business representatives so that they have a City point of contact. Identify to local companies that staff will assist them with any form of inquiry as it pertains to local government and provide guidance if and when problems or questions arise. These visits will progress from the introductory phase to follow up visits to address any questions or concerns that were raised and establish ongoing rapport. Goals/ Objectives ~ To demonstrate to local businesses, the value of their contribution to the local economy. ~ To assist existing businesses in addressing issues and aid them in utilizing available programs and resources. ~ 1 visit per staff member per week ~ 8-10 visits per month ~ Visits in conjunction with other entities (DEED, DCR Chamber) as the possibility arises Reporting Staff will document the visits on an ongoing basis and schedule follow up visits as needed. Documentation will include business name, name of contact, number of employees, comments, any issues or concerns raised, any expansion or relocation plans/needs. Outside Entities Staff will work with representatives from other interested organizations that may benefit from the information discussed at visits. Periodic meetings with representatives from DEED, DCR Chamber, Economic Growth Committee and others to discuss business visit results. K:\Lisa Dargis\EDA \Comp Plan Chapter and Work Plan\Business Outreach Visits.doc . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street Farmington, Minnesota 651.463.7111 . Fax 651.463.2591 www.ci.farrnington.mn.us TO: EDA Members FROM: Lisa Dargis, Administrative Assistant SUBJECT: Joint Workshop DATE: January 28, 2008 INTRODUCTION A joint workshop has been scheduled for the City Council and various boards and commissions to begin discussing the delineation of a downtown commercial district. DISCUSSION The City Council, Economic Development Authority, Historic Preservation Commission, Planning Commission and Park and Recreation Advisory Commission members will be meeting on February 11, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss the delineation of a downtown commercial district. This workshop will solicit input from the participants to initiate development of a district boundary. Please see the attached flyer for further details. ACTION REOUESTED This item is for information only. -~ e Assistant - I - - .. Delineation of the Downtown Commercial District . Farmington's historic downtown provides it's own unique brand for the City, and it's own unique challenges. What geographical area is actually considered the Downtown Business Sector has long been a source of confusion. Among board and commission members, staff, business owners and residents one can find a variety of opinions as to what is "downtown". Delineation of the downtown commercial district will provide the basis for creation of programs to support economic growth and assist in the creation of design standards that will maintain the historic character of this area. A workshop has been planned for the Farmington City Council, Economic Development Authority, Historic Preservation Commission, Park and Recreation Advisory Commission and Planning Commission. Please join us and provide your input on this important issue. Monday, February 11th, 2008 City Hall Council Chambers 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Future sessions will be held to obtain resident and business owner input regarding this issue. Information has been provided detailing the EDA's priorities, as well as results of the Market Study - Summary of Findings as they pertain to the downtown. . . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street Farmington, Minnesota 651.463.7111 . Fax 651.463.2591 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: EDA Members FROM: Tina Hansmeier, Economic Development Specialist SUBJECT: CDA Housing Rehab Summary DATE: January 28, 2008 INTRODUCTION Attached is the Dakota County Community Development Agency Housing Rehabilitation information for the past five fiscal (program) years. DISCUSSION The attachment illustrates the number of Housing rehab loans that have been funded through the Dakota County CDA's Housing Rehab funds. The second table in the attachment shows that Farmington residents have tapped into the county-wide CDBG account to meet the demand with the exception of FY07, which at the time of the information received had just been starting the sixth month of that program year. At the time this information was received (December 5, 2007) no applications were pending. ACTION REQUESTED For information only. 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DISCUSSION Ms. Karrmann, owner of Just Kidding Around Daycare and Preschool, has fully complied with the obligations identified in the Amended Development Contract for Private Development dated December 8, 2003. Therefore, a Certificate of Completion has been attached for your review and approval. ACTION REQUESTED Motion to approve the execution of the attached Certificate of Completion by the Chair and Executive Director of the EDA. Respectfully submitted, ~ ~~ Tina Hansmeier, Economic Development Specialist . cc: Peter Herlofsky, Jr., City Administrator CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION The undersigned hereby certifies that JUST KIDDING AROUND DA YCARE AND PRESCHOOL, INC., a Minnesota corporation ("Developer") has fully complied with its obligations to construct the Minimum Improvements under that document titled Amended Contract for Private Development dated December 8, 2003, by and between the Housing and Redevelopment Authority in and for the City of Farmington, kin/a the Economic Development Authority in and for the City of Farmington (the "EDA") and Developer, relating to the Property described in Exhibit A attached hereto, and that Developer is released and forever discharged from its obligations under the Agreement with respect to the obligations of Developer, and its successors and assigns, to construct the Minimum Improvements. The Dakota County Recorder's Office is hereby authorized to accept for recording the filing of this instrument, to be a conclusive determination of the satisfaction and termination of the covenants and conditions of the Amended Contract for Private Development described above. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the EDA has caused this Certificate to be duly executed in its name and behalf on or as of the date first above-written. Economic Development Authority in and for the City of Farmington By: Its President By: Its Executive Director 136420 1 . . . . . . STATE OF MINNESOTA ) )ss. COUNTY OF DAKOTA) The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this _ day of 2008, by and ' the President and Executive Director, respectively, of the Economic Development Authority in and for the City of Farmington, Minnesota, a public body corporate and politic under the laws of the State of Minnesota, on behalf ofthe public body corporate and politic. Notary Public THIS INSTRUMENT WAS DRAFTED BY: CAMPBELL KNUTSON 317 Eagandale Office Center 1380 Corporate Center Curve Eagan, Minnesota 55121 651-452-5000 AMP/cjh 136420 2 136420 . EXHIBIT A LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY Lot 2, Block 1, Farmington Industrial Park 20gth Street Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof, Dakota County, Minnesota. . . 3 . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street Farmington, Minnesota 651.463.7111 . Fax 651.463.2591 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: EDA Members FROM: Tina Hansmeier, Economic Development Specialist SUBJECT: Rental Property (305 3rd Street) DATE: January 28, 2008 INTRODUCTION Staff has been in contact with the Dakota Valley Arts Council [DV AC] regarding the use of the vacant rental property. DISCUSSION Considering the properties current state there are some improvements that will need to be made regardless of the tenant. Some examples would be removal/replacement of carpeting or floor covering, painting of walls, addition of bathroom door and general cleaning of the space. Staff has determined that the cost of these items would be roughly $15,000. Staff would like to proceed with making these improvements so that this space can be leased or occupied. ACTION REQUESTED Recommend that staff proceed with making improvements to the property. Respectfl!lIy submitted, ~ru~tfZjflStne~6 Tina Hansmeier, Economic Development Specialist cc: Peter Herlofsky, Jr., City Administrator . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street Farmington, Minnesota 651.463.7111 . Fax 651.463.2591 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: EDA Members FROM: Tina Hansmeier, Economic Development Specialist SUBJECT: School and Conference DATE: January 28, 2008 INTRODUCTION Community Development staff are planning to attend the Ehlers & Associates 2008 Public Finance Seminar entitled "E Harmony...Building lasting Relationships Within Your Community. " DISCUSSION This seminar focuses on the areas of Tax Increment Financing, Bonds, Foreclosures, land Use, Development and Redevelopment. The seminar will be held at the Northland Inn in Brooklyn Park on Thursday, February 14 and Friday, February 15, 2008. BUDGET IMPACT Cost of the seminar is $230.00/person. Funds are available in the Economic Development Authority fund to cover this expense. ACTION REQUESTED Approve school and conference request to attend the Ehlers & Associates 2008 Public Finance Seminar to be held in Brooklyn Park on February 14th and 15th, 2008 for Community Development staff. Respe1f"Y submitted, 'Jr;;g~G Tina Hansmeier, Economic Development Specialist cc: Peter Herlofsky, Jr., City Administrator . '.'~.~.'.'~ ~~ ~ !C3 -;;e:. " ~ ~~:.,; 141 '\ -0 g \ '/be, (S \..""of..~ / f>" ~: ~ PRO"\'O~ Workshops, Training & Networking . Lisa and Tina attended the 2008 Economic Development Association of Minnesota Winter Conference. . Lisa & Lee Smick are attending the 2008 Dakota County Lead- ership Academy. . Lee Smick, Peter Herlofsky & Lisa Dargis attended the Janu- ary Economic Growth Commit- tee Meeting. . Tina , Lisa & Peter Herlofsky attended the Business After Hours event celebrating Family Health Medical Clinic's one year anniversary. . Tina attended the January .armington Downtown Busi- ess Association meeting. . Tina attended the Dakota Future Holiday Reception. . Lisa & Tina met with Cerron Commercial Properties for an update on local activities. Business Outreach Visits . Thelen Cabinets . Burville Law Office . My Eyes...My Heart... . Mini Smart . Fan Club Athletics . R & L Carriers . Econo Foods . Family Vision Clinic r -<<press Business Solutions \---->Base Specialties . The Dental Health Center Fantastic Sam's Ribbon Cutting A ribbon cutting was held on January 9th to celebrate the opening of Fantastic Sam's at 18350 Pilot Knob Road in Farmington. Owner, Dave Zoz is very pleased with the new site which has been open since October. Check them out on the web at www.fantasticsams.com or call (651) 460-7267. The Update Copies of the Farmington Economic Update are now being mailed to local businesses. If you would prefer to receive the Update via email please contact an Economic Development staff " member. The Economic Up- date is also available on the city's website under City News & Information. Tina Hansmeier My Eyes...My Heart... Opens (651) 463-1821 Tha nsmeier@ci.farmington. mn.us The former Memory Creek space on the corner of Third and Oak Streets in downtown Farmington is no longer vacant. My Eyes...My Heart... now occupies the site and opened on January 10th. The store carries supplies for scrap booking, card making and stamping as well as home decor items. Check them out at www.mveyesmvheart.com or by calling (651) 463-8499 Lisa Dargis (651) 463-1620 Lda rgis@cLfarmington.mn.us Pa~e 2 Farmington Economic Upd,ate Catch the News.... . Copies of the City's new Business Reinvestment Loan Program brochure have been mailed to local business owners. There are currently funds available that can be used prior to June 2008. . The recently completed Market Study is available on the City of Farmington's website www.ci.farmington.mn.us or at the Dakota County Library in Farmington. Now Open - Fairview Clinic The Fairview Clinic located in Charleswood Marketplace on the corner of 195th Street and Pilot Knob Road opened for appoint- ments on Tuesday, January 22nd. The clinic offers complete medical services including health exams, preventive care and chronic disease treatment. Same day appointments are available. Check them out on the web at ~or give them a call at (651) 463-5100. ~ Irmnr:\ulS1l~ Irmoau!;1I111m) (WI']lnln~j(ttlS1l~ ~'JlllllljJ(!Jf:lllD1!1 lill~II(~~ lIiBwllI:lU.lII ~ ~ ~ IIIlmJ . t8 (!) fJ ~ to ~ g ~ 7J 4. ... ..' \.. .~.... Check This Out... Be sure to take a look at the Business Resources Page on the City of Farmington's website. Just use this link... II http://www.ci.farmington.mn . us / BusinessResource.htm Roundbank Community Room Looking for meeting space? Conference space is available at the Roundbank facility on Highway 3 and. Vermillion River Trail. The room which is offered free of charge, can accommodate approximately 40 people and has limited kitchen facilities and media technology. Call Cindy Bloomquist at Roundbank for details or to reserve the room for your next meeting. (651) 463-8300. . t t ~ ~ ~ , ~ i. r. Essential Information For Downtown Revitalization Perspectives Looking ahead to 2008: Current and future downtown trends that matter most As Downtown Idea Exchange looks ahead to 2008, institutional- izing downtown management at the local government level and increasing funding for downtown improvements are two of the most welcome trends that experts see. "The best trend in downtown improvement efforts is small towns finding creative ways to broaden funding resources. Municipalities are recognizing and justifying the need for a CBD coordinator. .. and more outside resources are becom- ing available through state and regional economic development offices. More resources are result- ing in more programs. Taking care of downtown is now on the com- munity's radar screen," says Robert Kunkel, Central Business District coordinator, City of Durango, CO (pop. 13,920). "Small towns and cities are beginning to see downtown as an asset that has to be managed and have funds directed at specific projects and programs," agrees Perspectives columnist and consul- (Continued on page 2) Trends, Analysis, and Commentary What are the top global trends affecting downtowns? Do global trends have local impacts? Absolutely, say the team at Progressive Urban Manage- ment Associates (P.U.M.A.). Their recently updated global trends analysis looks at 10 trends which affect downtowns and sug- gests conclusions and implica- tions for downtown planning and development decision makers. "In the day-to-day work of a downtown manager, looking beyond daily tasks and focusing on the big picture perspective can be next to impossible," says Jamie Licko of P.U.M.A.. "For that reason, many down- town managers across the country have been using the global trends analysis as a planning tool. It's been effective at starting a new dialogue for many organizations. "Interestingly, since we origi- nally undertook this research in 2006, we've seen many of these (Continued on page 4) Local support pays off in downtown draw The Imperial Dinner The- atre has proven to be an eco- nomic boon to downtown Pocahontas, AR (pop. 6,520). The nonprofit that operates the theater claims that 70 percent of the audience comes from outside of Pocahontas, and more than 20 percent from out- side the state. But the $2.5 million theater might never have been without strong local support. The facility was built exclusively with dona- tions (both monetary and in- kind), volunteer labor, and grants from many sources - including county, state, and fed- eral funding. Even the land was donated. The project earned the Bootstrap Award from the state's tourism industry for achieving significant success with limited finances. Inside this issue Better attitudes toward downtown prevail.. . . . . . . . . 2 Downtown area populations are diversifying. . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Website quantitatively rates walkability. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 6 Street smarts for improving downtown accessibility. . . . . 7 Support for existing business- es remains key objective.. . . 8 @ 2008 Alexander Communications Group, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN 0012-5822 Downtown @ Idea "Exchange A publication of the Downtown Research & Development Center 712 Main Street - Suite 187B Boonton. NJ 07005-1450 Phone: (973) 265-2300 . Fax: (973) 402-6056 Email: info@DowntownDevelopment.com Website: www.DowntownDevelopment.com Editor Paul Felt. ext. 119 pfelt@DowntownDevelopment.com Customer Service Mary Pagliaroli. ext. 101 mpagliaroli@DowntownDevelopment.com Reprints and Permissions Mary Dalessandro. ext. 103 mdalessandro@DowntownDevelopment.com Publisher Margaret DeWitt, ext. 106 msdewitt@Do'wntownDeI'elopment.com lJoKWO>\7f ldet1 EIchang/i> is published twice monthly by the Downt()\\'ll Research & Development Center. The Center provides DeWS. information and data for SDCCeSS- fuI downtm>'ll re'\-;ta!ization through its newsletters, lJooIcs, reports, and website. ~ Alexander Cmlmunications Group "41 () 2008 Ale:umder Camnwnicatiom Group. Inc. AD righls rest!T1'ed. No pan <if this pub- lication ma)' ~ reproduced. stored in a retriel.al system, at' tnmsmined in tory form or by tIfl)' means, elecm:mic. mechanical. photocopying or othenvise. "ithout eM prior wril1e7l permission of Alexander Communications Group, Subscription Order Form: Please start/renew my one-year subscription to Downtown Idea Exchange for $227.* I NAME I , TITLE RPMIORGANIZATIO ADDRESS I I IClTY STATE ZIP I PHONE FAX EMAJL N1S 4J MAIL: 712 Mari Street - Suite 1878 Boonton, NJ 07005-1450 LdFAX: 19731 402-6056 'if PHONE: (973l 265-2300 @ EMAIl: ir1kl@OowntownDcom . Nort!l America. $227. EIsewtJere, $257 (includes airmaS delivery), Looking ahead to 2008: Current and future downtown trends that matter most - continued from page 1 tant Kent Burnes. "I think that this trend of city governments actually staffing a city department focused on downtown is a sign that small cities finally recognize that this can not be fully achieved with all volunteers and a sparsely outfitted downtown office." "Whole communities are see- ing the value in revitalizing down- town business districts," agrees Nora Dukowitz, Uptown market- ing manager, Town of Normal, IL (pop. 45,390). "It isn't just the plight of the merchant's associa- tions anymore; it's something that more and more people want to see succeed." As seen by these and other people who have contributed to the knowledge base and content of Downtown Idea Exchange over the past year, the following are addi- tional key trends for downtowns over a spectrum of sizes, as we enter 2008. · Better attitudes toward downtown prevail. "Probably the most important trend for down- towns is the great improvement in public, business, news media and government attitudes," says Laurence Alexander, AICP, founder of Downtown Idea Exchange and Downtown Promo- tion Reporter. "Not long ago words like 'downtown' and 'urban' were neg- ative. Now they are increasingly positive. People like the urban lifestyle, with all that it entails. This underlies improvements in public support, developer interest and the local political will to sup- port downtown," he says. . · Downtowns begin to think and work on a regional scale. "Overcoming provincial thinking remains a challenge. However, we are working with a number of smaller towns on regional develop- ment issues," says Stephanie Lewry, executive director, Intown Manchester, Manchester, NH (pop. 107,000). "If Manchester is thriving, our prosperity will help the smaller cities in our region to thrive, through housing and small business development. Their prosperity, in turn, helps us to continue to attract business and entertainment to the area and to grow our workforce." · Downtowns evolve from from task to strategic orientation. "Downtown management organiza- tions, and the profession of the downtown manager, are changing to meet the needs of a new world and a new constituency," comments Jamie Licko of Progressive Urban Management Associates. "Downtown management orga- nizations have generally emerged in communities that have the need for some very specific tasks to be accomplished. Today, many down- town organizations are finding that simply being a task-oriented com- munity group isn't enough any more. Downtown organizations, from our perspective, appear to be taking a bigger role in the commu- nity, leading the way in initiatives to develop and nurture businesses, actively participate in development with private and civic partners, and lead the way on programs and pro- jects that go beyond anything they've done before. We see this I 1 . ~ 1 j . , 1 2 Downtown Idea Exchange . www.DowntownDevelopment.com January 1, 2008 e trend increasing, as downtowns continue to renew and reinvent themselves to meet increasingly complex challenges." · Pro-downtown groups bet- ter coordinate their efforts. Narrow thinking within the city limits or even downtown itself can also hurt economic development efforts, and it's something we're glad to see abating. "The biggest change we're see- ing in downtown Ann Arbor (MI, pop. 114,000), is that in the past decade we've all begun working together. This is actually a very big deal for us. Our four downtown merchant associations now regular- ly communicate with each other, which is something they never did 15 years ago," says Susan Pollay, executive director, Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority. "The suspicions and jealousies that used to stand in our way are now no longer present, which is wonderful, because we now work together to align our resources and efforts so we're working to the same end - which is a healthy, vibrant downtown and community." · Downtowns revamp outdat- ed, obsolete zoning ordinances. More and more downtowns are carefully examining their zoning ordinances. "The reason is that many are outdated relative to the realities of today," Alexander says. "They often don't recognize the proper land and space uses to zone in, zone out or modify. This affects the ability to recruit businesses, support (or control) development and in general to permit and en- courage good development and flexibility for the future. "While use zoning is funda- mental, issues of height, parking requirements and many other fac- tors are currently damaging many :e :e January 1, 2008 downtowns. They can be changed to support a correct forward trend." · Downtown area popula- tions are diversifying. Population diversification is happening in towns and cities virtually every- where. "In a important trend, downtowns are recognizing that they are serving diverse popula- tions in terms of ethnicity, race, lifestyles, economics and more," Alexander says. "This phenomenon is progress- ing from major metros to mid-sized cities and right down to hundreds of small towns. Downtowns can meet this trend or reject it. The wrong decision could be costly, so many downtowns are embracing diversity and more will join in." · Downtown leaders get smarter about development. "In a long-term trend that is intensify- ing, downtowns and their parent cities are growing serious about attracting the "right" developers. And, significantly, they are getting smarter and more skilled in attract- ing them," Alexander observes. "If a downtown knows what it wants, it frequently must seek developers and incentivize them to undertake the task. This trend sees local businesspeople and investors, along with public officials, getting together to figure it out. They are going to school, literally, and hit- ting the books. They are retaining experienced people. They are acquiring the skill and know-how to plan and manage downtown development that is good for downtown and the community." John Paul Weesner, senior designer with Glatting Jackson Kercher Anglin, agrees, adding, "In this economic down time, many small cities are reviewing their growth [patterns] and choosing to plan and direct their future growth. I think many towns were unpre- pared for the housing boom and overbearing developers looking to create large projects." ''Towns are beginning to under- stand terms like 'design guidelines,' 'form-based code,' and 'pattern books,' and therefore putting them- selves in control of what their town looks like and how it grows." · Downtown leadership edu- cation is becoming standardized. A more professionalized, better trained, better paid and better understood downtown district manager is on the horizon as Rut- gers University launches the first ever Certificate Program in Busi- ness District Management. "On the most basic level, we will have bet- ter-trained business district man- agers who expand local public management capacity. And these managers will be better paid and better understood within their communities," says Seth Gross- man, executive director of the Ironbound BID, Newark, NJ (pop. 273,500). "It's about time," continues Grossman. "Practicing profes- sionals have felt in an awkward position of having to defend their profession with little support or resources, and communities can't seem to put a finger on exactly what business district managers do, let alone how they fit into the com- munity or governance structure." · Leisure activities and value. Cor-dollar dining to rise. "I think we will also see a push toward more entertainment down- town," Burnes adds. "Not the pan- cake breakfast-type stuff, but the return of billiards, swing and big band dance halls, and of course the cinema in downtown. Upper story roller rinks and all kinds of entertainment along with a Downtown Idea Exchange . www.DowntownDevelopment.com 3 boom in restaurants are all happen- ing and will continue to happen downtown. "Baby Boomers will be eating downscale, making room for the good old-fashioned blue-plate spe- ciallunch counter for downtown. Good food at good prices will appeal to the Baby Boomer in retirement and those approaching retirement; they are still going to go out to eat, just not as pricey as when they were younger." · Downtowns seek to stand out with outstanding businesses. A number of downtowns are attracting innovative businesses that draw people by building on a downtown's sense of place and offering products and services not found in the chain stores, observes consultant and past Perspectives columnist David Milder. "It's not good enough to have a lot of small businesses. A viable small down- town has to have some really good ones," he says. · Green is the new gold. Downtowns strive to be green. The latest emphasis in downtown management is "to be or get green," says Angela Fox, executive director, Crystal City Business Improvement District, Arlington, VA (pop. 189,500). "This trend has the dual benefit of being good for the environment while attracting the young urban professionals and companies who identify with and support this movement. The 'green rush' is clearly impacting the way down- towns are improving their image and their infrastructure." "The sustainability buzz is here to stay," Licko says. "The genera- tions that are emerging behind us are going to expect and demand more in the way of sustainability initiatives." · Downtowns will shift back to walkability. "Folks will always have their cars, but the places that are timeless are also walkable and tend to put the pedestrian first and the I ~ ~ automobile second. Figuring out this transportation conundrum and achiev- ing a cOnlmon vision for growth of the town will do much for many cities in 2008," Weesner concludes. . . Global trends affecting DTs - continued from page 1 America will become increas- ingly culturally and ethnically diverse, creating an advantage for downtowns that welcome, accom- modate, and celebrate diversity. For example, downtowns that have made recent strides to better accommodate immigrants include Danbury and New Haven, CT. See Downtown Idea Exchange articles, "Downtown takes steps to assist, attract immigrant- entrepreneurs," February 15, 2007 and; "Downtown banks must adapt to new immigration waves," March 1, 2007. Changes within the Creative Class. Today, the so-called Cre- ative Class represents roughly 30% of the entire U.S. workforce, and includes young professionals who are educated, adaptable, highly mobile, and command relatively low wages. Young, single women are emerging as influential leaders of the Creative Class. For the first time in U.S. history, women will be the majority of the workforce by 2010. Still, education statistics in the U.S. show a picture of a young population not adequately prepared to face a global future. Education will be key in ensuring competitive- ness, and cities that make connec- tions to institutions of higher learning will benefit. Downtowns are poised to continue to attract creative voca- tions if they can offer a business climate favorable to the incubation . . changes materialize and play out not only globally, but also in their trickle-down effects to our towns and cities." Let's look at how global trends are affecting the work of down- town development. Changing American demo- graphics. Baby Boomers have begun retiring at a rate of 10 mil- lion per year, with many of the more affluent moving to urban environments, creating a demand for new types of housing and stim- ulating a boom in cultural ameni- ties. Older Boomers are a market that may look to urban environ- ments both as a way to downsize and to connect to a "neighbor- hood" of others, providing a social safety net in place of family. The U.S. population is growing both older (aging Baby Boomers) and younger (emerging Millen- nials). Both older and younger markets have fueled downtown population growth over the past decade and are poised to continue that, particularly in those down- town areas that offer housing, amenities, and activities that re- spond to their needs. Immigration and the role of cities as portals to America. Since the 1990s, 85% of immigrants to the U.S. have been coming from Latin America and Asia. But recent immigrants are shifting away from the traditional urban gateways because of the high cost of living and lack of jobs in the big cities. 4 Downtown Idea Exchange . www.DowntownDevelopment.com January 1, 2008 . and growth of small dynamic enterprises. The emerging im- portance of young women and Generation- Y Millennials in the American professional class cre- ates opportunities for designing, programming, and managing vibrant and interactive downtown environments. For an example of a downtown working with its university to bet- ter accommodate and attract young professionals in creative vocations, see the article "Reviv- ing downtown through live-work redevelopnwnt for creative class," DIX, April 15, 2007. Traffic congestion and the value of time. Some experts sug- gest that additional road capacity is doing little to stem rising traffic congestion. Additionally, we face more drivers on the road in the near future. On the bright side, recent studies show that for the first time ever, national transit rid- ership exceeded growth rates in driving. Many cities that have invested in added transit capacity have been experiencing annual ridership growth in the double digits. When transit trips are com- petitive with auto travel, research shows people choose transit at a high rate. "We've seen this one coming for awhile now, and yet responding has been a struggle for many downtowns," Licko says. "With gas prices continuing to soar, and with the number of drivers on the road continuing to increase, the time will soon come when a better transportation solution than more roads and more parking ramps will not just be a preferred alternative, it will be necessary. No downtown, small or large, is immune to this problem. "And yet we continue to work . . with cities who are dedicating more resources to housing cars than to moving people. Whether it's a light-rail system, a streetcar, or simply a shuttle bus or trolley, innovative solutions to move peo- ple around, into and out of your downtown need to be happening now. Many cities have done it suc- cessfully (using a variety of unique and creative financing strategies) and yet most cities are identifying this as a problem of the future. The future is present, and making transit part of your near-term plans will be crucial to your success." Last year, we saw a refreshing example of transit service being evaluated where the car is king, the Southwest. See "Feasibility study looks at transit link between two downtowns," DIX, May 1, 2007. We also saw a downtown B1D coordinate funding to subsi- dize the start-up of a car-sharing program in a smaller market than the operator would otherwise serve. See "Coordinating funding for an ambitious transportation amenity downtown," DIX, July 15,2007. Trends in health, wellness, and recreation. Although Ameri- cans are living longer than ever before, the Baby Boomer genera- tion is active and would like to walk and bike more. For an example of a down- town that is investing in amenities that make walking aesthetically appealing and interesting, see the article "Enhancing walkability focuses on creating a 'new' down- town," DIX, August 1, 2007. The growth of tourism. U.S. convention center space has increased by 50% since 1990, despite industry consolidations and the growth of e-business. Conven- tion growth will depend upon new demand generated by increased event promotion resources and mar- keting budget allocations, user expectations for high-tech conven- tion facilities, national economic growth, and the traditional need for face-to-face interaction. See how one downtown is developing with a city-owned hotel in the DIX articles "City invests in conference hotel as catalyst," Feb- ruary 15, 2006, and "City's invest- ment in downtown hotel starts bringing in more new people," February 1, 2007. Continued advances in tech- nology. Technological advances will have the greatest impact in the areas of health, alternative sources of energy, engineering, quality of life enhancements, and business. Technology will continue to trans- form the way people live and inter- act, as well as the way downtowns develop. We can think of no better example of that than the partner- ship between Google and tiny McMinnville, TN (pop. 12,750), which we discussed in the Decem- ber 1, 2007 issue ofDIX. Sustainability and climate change. In this time of unprece- dented urban expansion, the need for sustainable development solu- tions is critical. Half of the build- ings Americans will live in by 2030 do not even exist yet. While green building and sustainable technology has been in existence for decades, these techniques and IDI Web Extras I ('..JO To read the full text of the report Top 10 Global Trends Affecting Downtowns, go to www.DowntownDevelopment.com and click on Web Extras. January 1, 2008 Downtown Idea Exchange . www.DowntownDevelopment.com 5 materials have only recently become more affordable. Once dis- missed by developers as too expen- sive, green building will become a must as tenants, lenders, residents and even investors push for sus- tainability. Expect green principles to become synonymous in the real estate industry with cost-efficient operating principles. Additionally, designing out obsolescence is expected to be a trend. Expect more developers to embrace building techniques that allow flexibility in the project to cater to different future needs of their users should the market change. In 50 years, this trend may minimize the need for redevelop- ment on the scale we see today. To date, most American public policy innovation in sustainability has occurred on the local level. Cities will look to maximize the use of existing infrastructure and explore sustainable development, including transit-oriented develop- ment. Vibrant downtowns are well positioned to capitalize on an eco- nomic imperative to downsize con- sumption, while still offering the lifestyle advantages of entertain- ment, culture, recreation, and human interaction. America's transition to re- newable energy sources and less resource-intensive lifestyles, includ- ing downtown development, may also become part of broader nation- al security strategies. Contact: P.U.M.A., (303) 628-5554, www.pumaworldhq.com . . Walking and Recreation Website quantitatively rates walkability In the past, people would never know how walkable a downtown area was until they walked for them- selves. Today, that's no longer true thanks to a website launched in July 2007 called Walk Score. As its name implies, Walk Score calculates a walkability score for any property and shows a map of what's nearby, along with any reviews it finds online at Yelp. com, a location- specific business review website. For downtowns, this can serve as a plan- ning as well as a marketing tool, potentially attracting tenants, devel- opers, and investors. How it works, and doesn't work Designed to help people find walkable places to live, Walk Score calculates the walkability of an address by locating nearby stores, restaurants, schools, parks, libraries, etc. found on the Google Maps database. Distance is calcu- lated as-the-crow-flies. Keep in mind, Walk Score is just an approx- imation of walkability, which is how comfortable and accommodat- ing it is to walk. 6 There are a number of factors that contribute to waIkability that are not part of the algorithm that the website uses to calculate a place's walkability: · Street width and block length: Narrow streets slow down traffic. Short blocks make it easier to navi- gate the grid. · Safety: How much crime is in the neighborhood? How many traffic accidents are there? Are crosswalks well marked and streets well lit? · Pedestrian-friendly design: Are there walking paths? Are build- ings close to the sidewalk with park- ing in back? Are sidewalks shaded by trees? · Topography: Hills can make walking difficult, especially if you're carrying groceries. · Public transit: Good public transit is important for walkable downtowns. The website may even- tually take this into account. · Freeways and bodies of water: Freeways can divide downtowns. Swimming is harder than walking, and fewer people know how to do it. · Weather: In some places it's just too hot or cold to walk regularly. So reality checks, as always, are a must. What does your score mean? The easiest way to see how Walk Score works is to try it. Your Walk Score (for any address in the U.S., Canada, or Great Britain) will be a number between 0 and 100. For example, plug in the address of this newsletter's offices, 712 Main Street, Boonton, NJ, and the walk score is 89 out of 100. What does that mean? Down- town Boonton is very walkable. Its main street is built on a very steep incline though, which you won't know until you visit or somebody tells you! "Walk Score provides a quanti- tative analysis of how walkable places are, so that people can factor that in to their decision about where to live," says Matt Lerner, Walk Score co-founder and chief technical officer. Its goal is to get people thinking about walkability and why it's important." Contact: Walk Score, www. walkscore. com. . . ~ . Downtown Idea Exchange . www.DowntownDevelopment.com January 1, 2008 . l l . Transportation Street smarts for improving downtown accessibility . A large part of every down- town's total real estate is devoted to streets. That's generally every- thing between the building lines, and it is termed the public- right-of-way (ROW). To function opti- mally, every downtown needs to make good use of this vital space. An important aspect of this work is improving accessibility not only for shoppers and workers but also for the growing number of people with special accessibility needs such as seniors and the dis- abled. Public streets must be streets for all people, whether walking, riding or sitting at a sidewalk cafe. Until recently, there have been few design tools available for cre- ating accessible pedestrian facili- ties. For the most part, pedestrian systems have been designed for a user who is agile and who sees, hears, and understands the down- town environment. But just as road ways are engi- neered for users who have particu- lar requirements - transit, large trucks, and emergency vehicles - so, too do sidewalks need to be planned for a broad range of pedestrians. Implementing accessible design results in a safer and more usable system for all, not just those with disabilities, in part because it requires that a greater level of detail and attention be given to pedestrian issues and improvements. In August 2007 the Institute of Transportation Engineers issued a special report: Accessible Public Rights-of- Way: Planning and De- signing for Alterations, which explains the nature and function of streets and covers how to improve them in ways highly relevant to improving downtowns in small towns or large cities. The goal is better functionality, safety, ease of access, and attractiveness. Written by a team including Mary O'Connor, transportation gen- eral manager, City of Scottsdale, AZ and Barbara McMillen, transporta- tion specialist, Federal Highway Administration, this guide to im- proving accessibility on the public right-of-way makes clear their vital role in downtowns. The street system must serve the stroller, the store, and the shipper. . The most complex public space anywhere Even by downtown standards and especially in downtowns, the right-of-way is a complicated beast, and one which commerce is utterly dependent on. To quote from the new guide's introduction: "The public right-of-way is a complex space serving multiple users and functions. "The sidewalk and street cross- ing network is the basic unit of pedestrian mobility and its surfaces support all of us - from children to elders - in both pleasant and inclement weather. "Private, transit, and commer- cial vehicles vie with pedestrians for right-of-way width. All modes of travel, including motor vehicles, rail transit and foot traffic share time and space at intersections. "Power companies maintain above-ground and below-ground transmission lines; municipalities own and operate surface streets and sidewalks; and utility companies and public agencies oversee below- grade sewers, water mains, gas mains, and data and telecommuni- cations networks. "The public right-of-way in large cities may include both air rights and underground circulation routes used by pedestrians. "Adjacent to the right of way, private property owners construct, maintain, and operate buildings, entries, driveways, sidewalk vaults, basements, and other improvements and expect useable connections to and from public sidewalks and streets." Designing for a wide range of users The planning and design of downtown streets, as well as those elsewhere should be based on what O'Connor and McMillen have labeled the "design pedestrian," that is the range of people for whom improvements will be developed. "The design pedestrian is under- stood to be not an individual but a range of users." Downtowns can work to welcome, attract and sup- port all of them. However, streets fundamentally also serve people in vehicles. O'Connor and McMillen point out that "Designs are now expected to reflect equity and context and to bal- ance pedestrian and vehicular use." The good design, construction, maintenance and operation of the entire street system downtown is essential. It must serve the stroller, the store, and the shipper. To read the report Accessible Public Rights-of-Way: Planning and Designing for Alterations, go to www.access-board. gov/prowac/alterations/guide.htm . January 1, 2008 Downtown Idea Exchange . www.DowntownDevelopment.com 7 j l Idea Exchange Promote benefits of membership First Town Downtown (FTD) in Windsor, CT (pop. 12,050), is dedi- cated to promoting Windsor Center as a premier town center. The orga- nization depends on membership fees to help support those efforts. To encourage membership, it adver- tises such benefits as being tax deductible and promotes participa- tion as a way to meet people and keep up on what's happening down- town. It also notes that for every dollar invested in FTD, more than $46 has been reinvested in physical improvements in Windsor Center. Like many downtown organiza- tions, FTD also offers several dif- ferent membership levels including four business levels (ranging from $75 to $250), individual ($25) and family ($40) memberships. Parking permits for specific downtown areas Davis, CA (pop. 60,310), has a solution to help alleviate the prob- lem of prime downtown parking spaces always being occupied. It issues parking permits that are only good for certain areas of down- town. The X permit is $75, and is available to downtown residents and employees, it is valid only in designated on-street spaces and parking lots surrounding the down- town core. D permits ($24) are available for purchase only by managers or owners of businesses within a specified parking district and may be purchased for each employee. W permits ($10) are available 8 to residents and businesses within another area, and the number of permits available to each business is determined individually. Finally, R permits ($10) are available only to residents within a fourth area. Survey to provide more data to attract retail Are the statistics new busi- nesses use to evaluate your down- town outdated? That was the problem facing the Downtown DC Business Improvement District in Washington, DC (pop. 572,100). Retailers considering locating in the area were relying on data from the 2000 U.S. Census - and there had been significant growth since that time. Using this outdated information made it difficult to attract new businesses. To solve this problem, the BID, the Downtown Neighbor- hood Association, and The Down- . . j . fowner created a Downtown Neighborhood Survey. The infor- mation gathered in this survey will show downtown demand and sup- port for new businesses. Downtown plan is map for enhancements Since adopting a downtown revitalization plan in 2000, Algo- nquin, IL (pop. 23,280), has achieved significant success in enhancing downtown, especially in open space and pedestrian amenities. Among the completed projects is Riverfront Park, with an upgraded gazebo, band shelter, and river walk path. A road im- provement and streetscape en- hancement project along one of the main corridors had several components, including decorative lighting, pedestrian seating areas, an information kiosk, and buried power lines. . . Continue support for existing businesses In Waterville, ME (pop. 15,610), the Economic Restructuring Com- mittee has outlined several goals that it will continue to concentrate on this year. Among the five primary objectives is developing opportu- nities to strengthen existing downtown businesses, with these specific actions: · Implement Downtown Business of the Year award process and revisit selection criteria. · Identify downtown's strengths and weaknesses and analyze busi- ness community needs with surveys and focus groups. · Regularly visit downtown businesses to discuss relevant issues and share information on projects and activities. · Develop and conduct regular customer service workshops for downtown business owners and employees. · Develop and implement a business resources package for new businesses. . Downtown Idea Exchange . www.DowntownDevelopment.com January 1, 2008 . . 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Cl c :2 '5 .0- c ell i ell "0 ::I C3 .S "0 .l!l g] Ul f6 o ~ ---a .. 12 '~.' ,.::~ ,,-- ....3, ~ '6 ~~ BUSINESS NAME YEAR BACKGROUND INFORMATION CARLSON WAGON LIT 2007 Merged with their Apple Valley office. EDINA REALTY 2007 Built a new Apple Valley office and merged with that location. HOMETOWN FLOORING 2007 Closed due to bankrupcy. IMAGINATION DAYCARE & PRESCHOOL 2007 Evicted from rental space. JP mentioned that they closed due to market and are consolidating into Lakevil/e location. He also mentioned Garvey looking at moving Landscape Depot business over there. ..and lAMPERTS LUMBER YARD 2007 PressLine is looking at purchasing the site. . . Sales did not meet expectations. The shop closed and has SUbsequently been purchased. We expect it to reopen with a new MEMORY CREEK 2007 name and new management. The Building Official noticed that this company left town in July, STREAMLINERS INC. 2007 2007. BASS FLEXIBLE PACKAGING Relocated to Lakeville; needed more space but could not find 2006 land or a building of the right size and/or at an acceptable price. BP GAS STATION fHlllhwav 3\ 2006 Closed, reason unknown. Former Tom Thumb site. Reportedly went out of business. Current location of "Cabins to Country Club;" property was annexed from Castle Rock Township CANNON LOG HOMES 2006 in 2005 DUEBERS and commercial growth; corporation prefers to be in smaller, less 2006 competitive markets. lADIES WORKOUT EXPRESS 2006 limited buisness hours and low quality exercise equipment. LISA MARIE'S BOUTIQUE 2006 Closed, reportedly due to health of proprietor. MASTER TECH PlASTICS 2006 Owner is in process of selling building. MILLIE'S ANTIQUES Owner of business and building removed inventory to create 2006 space for prospective new tenant. THOROUGHBRED CARPETS Consolidated Farmington inventory with company's main location 2006 in Savage. APRILLE SHOWER'S TEA ROOM 2005 Relocated to Stillwater; in part due to landlord - tenant issues. BUDGET MART (Pilot Knob Road) 2005 Building demolished; land sold for new Kwik Trip. GREAT PERFORMANCES VIDEO & TANNING (Pilot Knob Road\ 2005 Building demolished; land sold for new Kwik Trip. OAK STREET GALLERY shops in close proximity at the time). Current location of Memory 2005 Creek (scrap book store). REACH FOR THE STARS SALON 2005 Closed, reason unknown; current location of DBS Hair Design. WHY USA REAL TY/ TRI-ST ATE Closed or relocated, reportedly due, in part, to difficulty meeting MO~TGAGE 2005 financial terms of lease. Current site of Fan Club Athletics. WIDE OPEN THROlTLE I L.andlord reportedly did not renew tenaiifs lease. t,;urrent sife Of 2005 ISO 192's classrooms. ASHER CHIROPRACTIC 2004 Death of business owner. BlAHA'S COlliSION CENTER IOwner retired from auto business and sold building to HRA for 2004 future City Hall site. HEART 'N HOME Owners retired from gift shop/craft business. Current site of 2004 Heikkila Studios. NEXTEL PHONE (Pilot Knob Road) Corporate decision to close, based on business volume. Current 2004 site of Cahill Salon. Business sold to competitor who had existing location in PRECISION VALVE Minneapolis; new owner then consolidated operations in 2004 Minnneapolis. BUSINESSES THAT HAVE CLOSED OR RELOCATED . . . 1/25/2008