5. HRSR 06-06-2011ITEM # 5.
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Housing & Redevelopment Authority
FROM: Annie Deckert, Director of Economic Development
DATE: June 6, 201 I
SUBJECT: Joint discussion for long term intentions for HRA Properties -
716 & 720 Main Street
ATTACHMENTS
• Letter to HRA from HPC
Staff was present at the May 19`", 2011 Heritage Preservation Commission (HCP) meeting at
which they discussed the HRA properties located at 716 & 720 Main Street. 'The HPC
requested a discussion with the HRA regarding their interest in preserving the buildings. A
representative(s) from the HPC will be at the meeting this evening.
MEMORANDUM
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 or 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 for astart-up
business. Also, by removing these two buildings, the integrity of the meat market which has
been in operation since 1904 would change. Having the meat market as a stand-alone would
detract from the character of downtown Elk River.
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 for businesses and job creation
• Rehabilitation costs less than demolition
• Preservation is more sustainable
• Historic buildings can be more energy efficient
• There are funding sources available for restoration of historic buildings
The HPC looks forward to discussing the opportunities for these properties with the HRA
at their June 6, 2011 meeting. Thank you.
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