6. HPSR 05 19 2011MEMORANDUM
TO: Housing & Redevelopment Authority
FROM: Lance Lindberg, Chair of the HPC
DATE: May 19, 201 I
SUBJECT: HRA Properties - 716 & 720 Main Street
The Heritage Preservation Commission met on Thursday, April 21, 2011. During the
meeting, the HPC recapped the presentation given by Bonnie McDonald, Preservation
Alliance of MN and joint meeting with the HRA in April. I have attached a copy of the
presentation she gave.
Staff informed the HPC of the recent discussion by the HRA regarding 716 & 720 Main
Street and whether to rehabilitate ox remove the buildings. The HPC would recommend
restoring the buildings. The buildings add to the character of the downtown and if restored
could add to the economy of the downtown by providing another location fox a start-up
business. As was stated during Ms. McDonald's presentation:
• Reinvesting in underutilized historic properties adds to the tax base
• Promotes investment into surrounding properties
• Preservation produces jobs
• Historic buildings provide diverse lease space options fox businesses and job creation
• Rehabilitation costs less than demolition
• Preservation is more sustainable
• Historic buildings can be more energy efficient
• There axe funding sources available for restoration of historic buildings
The HPC would be willing to further discuss the opportunities fox these properties with the
HRA.
N:\llepactmcnts\Communih~ Development\Environmental\HPC\Ltr [o HIiA.doc