Discuss ‘Statement of Goals’ for the Area near the 167^th Avenue and Saint Francis Boulevard (TH 47)
 

Case Background-
The retail node located at the intersection of 167 Ave and Trunk Highway 47 is the focus of this discussion.  The purpose of this case is to discuss a proposed policy, which outlines the City’s position regarding the future development of the 167^th retail node.  The proposed policy is known as a “Statement of Goals.”  This case was first introduced and reviewed by the Planning Commission on August 1, 2013.  At which time, the Planning Commission authorized Staff to conduct a public input process--in conjunction with the proposed "Statement of Goals."

Purpose of Case-
Discuss attached “Statement of Goals.”  Provide comments for City Council consideration.  NOTE: the Planning should specifically consider the “Public Input” and “Zoning” sections of this document.

Detailed Background-
The retail node located at 167th Avenue and Trunk Highway 47 has been a topic of discussion with City Councils and EDA boards for several years ("167/47 Node"). The 167/47 Node has struggled to become economically viable for some time, is experiencing high vacancy rates, an increase of blighted building conditions, and escalating crime.
 
The City has received a significant number of inquiries from property and business owners located in the 167/47 Node from 2012 to 2013 requesting assistance to help correct a market failure.  Additionally, the City of Ramsey owns an inventory of real property located adjacent to the 167/47 Node totaling 16.52 acres.  Said property was identified as surplus City owned land in 2012 and is available for sale.  In early 2013, the City responded to two (2) requests for a zoning amendment to expand the list of permitted and conditional uses. These uses included an indoor shooting range and warehousing/distribution user.
 
The EDA, Planning Commission, and City Council have expressed interest in addressing the 167/47 Node.  As a result, the EDA drafted a policy to guide the City’s position on the future development of 167/47 Node—known as a “Statement of Goals.”

This Statement of Goals identifies a common goal, vision, working parameters and a process to garner public input.
 The desired outcome of this document is to develop a clear, consistent, transparent and fair process the City, prospective developers, property owners and Staff can rely on as development proposals are received.  The Ramsey Economic Development Authority (EDA) shall represent the City of Ramsey in relation to the 167/47 Node by utilizing this document.

Notification is not required for this topic at this time.

Attached to this case is the proposed Statement of Goals.  Additionally, attached to this case a summary of this project--including raw public input process information.

Regular Community Development and Administration Staff duties.

Staff recommends approval of the “Statement of Goals.”  Staff is seeking comments on the Statement of Goals for City Council consideration.  NOTE: the Planning should specifically consider the “Public Input” and “Zoning” sections of this document.

Motion to recommend that the City Council adopt the “Statement of Goals” for the 167/47 Node.