EDA Agenda 05-12-2021 (Workshop Meeting) AGENDA
WORKSHOP MEETING - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA)
Wednesday, May 12th, 2021—5:30 p.m.
Academy Room, Monticello Community Center
Participants can choose to attend in-person or remotely via Go-To:
Web: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/141784861 or
Phone: (646) 749-3122 1 Access Code: 141-784-861
Commissioners: President Steve Johnson, Vice President Bill Tapper, Treasurer Jon
Morphew, Tracy Hinz, 011ie Koropchak-White and Councilmembers
Lloyd Hilgart and Jim Davidson
City Council: Mayor Lloyd Hilgart, Jim Davidson, Charlotte Gabler, Sam Murdoff, Brian
Hudgins
Staff: Executive Director Jim Thares, Angela Schumann, Sarah Rathlisberger and Jacob
Thunander
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Consideration of Review-Discussion Block 52 Redevelopment RFQ (Request for
Qualifications) Submittals and Next Steps
4. Adjournment
EDA Agenda: 05/12/21
3. Consideration of Review-Discussion Block 52 RFQ(Request for Qualifications) Submittals
and next steps in process (JT)
A. REFERENCE AND BACKGROUND:
The EDA is asked to review and discuss the Block 52 Redevelopment RFQ submittal
information and further offer guidance to staff regarding next steps in the Block 52
redevelopment process. The information in the staff report is provided as context and
options regarding potential next steps for the EDA to choose from.
At the April EDA's discussion at the April 14, 2021 meeting, the EDA endorsed following the
outlined process.
Step 1. A questionnaire regarding the pertinent critical design features and challenges
would be provided to each of the developers.
Step 2. EDA workshop to review the responses to the submitted RFQs.
Step 3. EDA workshop with preferred developer candidate(s) to evaluate whether
stated goals and ideas are mutually shared and discuss realistic project design and
task delivery.
Step 4. EDA enters into a Preliminary Development Agreement with selected developer
reflecting workshop discussion points
Step 5. Other steps as identified by staff or EDA during discussion and feedback session.
below.
The RFQ packet with the questionnaire was sent to the following developers for
consideration of submitting responses and possible further involvement with the EDA in its
Block 52 redevelopment efforts.
1. Alliance Building-INH Property Partnership
2. Anderson Development
3. Boser-Inventure Properties, LLC
4. Briggs Companies, Inc.
5. Buchholz-PRG
6. Good Neighbor Properties, LLC
7. Titanium Partners, LLC
Responses (emails and/or phone calls) were received from five of the developers with only
one of them following through and returning a completed questionnaire.
EDA Agenda: 05/12/21
Using the process outline, steps 1 and 2 are now completed. Steps 3 and 4 should be
considered as next steps as well as any other not yet identified process.
Al. STAFF IMPACT: The staff impacts in reviewing the Block 52 Redevelopment RFQ
submittal are fairly modest.
A2. BUDGET IMPACT: There is a minimal cost involved in the Block 52 Redevelopment RFQ
submittal and developer selection process. The minimal cost includes staff time and minor
copying expenses.
A3. STRATEGIC IMPACT: The Block 52 Redevelopment efforts are part of the City of
Monticello's strategic goals as identified in the City Council's recent 2021 strategic planning
session
In addition, the Downtown Small Area Study (SAS), adopted by the EDA and City Council in
late 2017 focuses on redevelopment of Block 52 as a key strategy to revitalize the downtown
area. The SAS plan calls for adding residential units (with associated purchasing power) in
the core city and specifically in Block 52. The specific Block 52 plan calls for ground floor
entertainment, dining and retail uses, as well as public amenities. The SAS was adopted and
incorporated into the Monticello 2040 Vision + Plan. The 2040 Plan reinforces continued
efforts within the downtown and Block 52.
B. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS:
1. Staff will defer to the EDA regarding motions related to the developer selection process.
2. Motion of other as determined by the EDA.
C. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
No motion is needed. If a motion is deemed necessary or helpful, staff will defer to the EDA.
D. SUPPORTING DATA:
a. Bucholz-Muldoon/PRG Block 52 RFQ Questionnaire Submittal
b. Block 52 Redevelopment Vision Packet with RFQ Questionnaire
1) What is the developers previous experience in working in downtown or urbanized
redevelopment projects?
Dale Buchholz Construction has extensive construction experience. Our most notable
redevelopment project consisted of 135 class A multifamily units (approx $15M
current value) in downtown Moorhead (MN). We worked as a team with the City,
Braun Intertec, and the EDA to secure a substantial grant and coupled the grant with
TIF. This project was a runner up for the Re-Scape awards and proved to be a catalyst
for growth and development in Downtown Moorhead that continues today.
2) Is the developer open to purchasing land from private property owners in the target
block?
We have conducted/facilitated various land purchases throughout our many years of
operating. We pride ourselves on relationships and believe we have a unique ability
to work with others to find a "common goal" in acquisition. We would welcome the
challenge and opportunity to work with private parties to achieve their goals, while
also achieving goals for the city and community as a whole.
3) What is the developers previous experience in acting as the purchasing entity agent
in redevelopment or vacant land development projects?
We welcome the challenges that can come with pre development and acquisition.
We have conducted purchases and negotiations on several occasions.
4) Is the developer comfortable with developing vertical mixed-use structures (ground
floor commercial, upper floors residential)?
Having extensive construction and development experience on our team we have a
strong comfort level with being able to create, construct, and execute a development
plan (with mixed use structures). We would work diligently to create a feasible plan
that upon execution would lead to the opportunity for "spin off" development.
5) Is the developer interested in a long term commitment as an owner of a multifamily
residential building in block 52?
Our company and investment partners have a history of holding long term. We
currently have over 1700 multifamily units under management as well as commercial
properties. We see great value in the opportunity to execute a plan and to continue
to build value with quality management.
6) Is the developer comfortable constructing high end multifamily buildings?
We have constructed over $200M of value in residential and commercial property.
Much of this construction has consisted of new multifamily buildings. We believe
strongly that block 52 can support high end (Class A) properties and will commit to
taking great care in detailing out a quality and unique design that the developer and
community can be proud of.
7) What kind of finishes does the developer consider high end in multifamily buildings?
Solid surface counter-tops, under-mount sinks, wood/LVP flooring, upgraded
plumbing package, aluminum suspended balconies, designer chosen LED lighting
package, underground parking, building amenities such as a collaborative work space,
wifi lounges, rooftop patio, community space, outdoor programmable spaces, camera
security system, we are very interested in embracing new integration of technology
with-in our communities as well.
8) Is the developer open to partner investors in commercial stand alone (horizontal
mixed us or side by side mixed use) buildings?
We believe in collaboration and that it is important to listen to different perspectives
and approaches. Strategic partnerships can make projects possible (that otherwise
would not have been) and can be a difference maker to achieve success.
9) Does the developer typically hold commercial property or is there preference being a
short term commercial owner?
We typically approach investment/development with a long term vision. Although
each project is different, we believe planning, management, and establishing
partnerships is critical to long term success.
10) Is the developer open to entering into a Development Agreement with the EDA
further defining block 52 steps?
We are open and willing to enter into a development agreement. We would work in
tandem with all parties to determine a feasible and fair agreement that achieves the
desired benefits for all of the engaged groups.
11) Is the developer self funding of financing the redevelopment project?
We have several quality banking relationships and would plan on financing the
project (with the required cash injection from our private investment group).
12) What is the developers estimate regarding value of total investment in block 52?
Does the developer feel comfortable in achieving 19-20M investment level in the block?
As we continue to narrow the scope and work through goals, we can dial in a more
exact value. We feel the block development cost could be $18M-$22M depending on
several factors.
13) How many multifamily units does the developer believe would be possible in the
block?
70-100 units seems to be possible depending on the final design. This will be
impacted from unit mix, land acquisition, and building heights.
14) How much commercial square footage would the developer believe would be
feasible?
We feel Pine and Broadway provides a feasible commercial development opportunity
and will be attractive to a wide range of users. We would commit to maintaining the
commercial (where appropriate) and support the commercial with well designed and
managed multifamily.
15) Would the developer want or need tax increment flow as a component of overall
project financing?
We expect that TIF (would need to be used) and would want to consider other
projected financing opportunities to achieve project goals for the city and the
developer. We would take a "creative and collaborative" approach to make the
project a success. We believe it important to only ask for what is needed to meet our
goals.
16) Is the developer willing to pay the EDA for land that it has acquired to alleviate cost
for the EDA?
We would be appreciative of the opportunity to work collectively to develop a
successful and feasible project. If acquisition is a necessary part, we would be ready,
willing, and able assuming it is feasible for all parties.
17) Is the developer willing to be a collaborative partner and engage with the EDA and
city staff to accomplish shared vision and objectives?
Absolutely! We understand this project will come with a large city investment, thus
should have city input. We have always believed in collaboration and working with
others. Open, honest, and transparent communication will lead to all parties being
"happy" with the business transaction.
CITY OF
PHONE:763-295-2711 Fax:763-295-4404
MonticeRo 505 Walnut Street Suite 1 Monticello, MN 55362
Part I
City of Monticello - Block 52 Redevelopment Status
And Invitation to Complete RFQ Questionnaire
April 23,2021
Information contained in this summary status overview is being provided to prospective
developers along with an invitation to complete Block 52 Questionnaire and return to City of
Monticello staff and the EDA (Economic Development Authority).
The collaborative redevelopment process led by the EDA is viewed as an opportunity to
create a signature redevelopment project that will strengthen the vitality of the core
downtown area in the City of Monticello.
Block 52 is a 2.5053 full block land area in downtown Monticello, MN with high visibility and
accessibility. It also has views of the Mississippi River and of West Bridge Park. Key facts
regarding Block 52 are noted below:
• Location: Downtown Monticello
• Size: 2.5053 acres or 109,131 square feet +/-
• Parcels: 16 separate and distinct parcels of various sizes
• Land Area owned by City-EDA: Approximately 75 percent or 81,986 square feet +/-
The EDA has been able to acquire a total of approximately 81,986 contiguous square feet or
75% of the entire Block 52 land area. In addition, there is high confidence that additional
land acquisition through voluntary sales transactions are possible in the future and a
contiguous land area of approximately 80 to 84 percent of Block 52 may be assembled.
A realistic timeframe for the commencement of a Block 52 Redevelopment Project ranges
from Fall of 2022 to the Summer-Fall of 2023. The EDA would prefer to engage with
developers in the Summer of 2021 as it formulates shared objectives and responsibilities for
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www.d.monticello.mn.us
the Redevelopment. This developer selection time frame will allow the City to consider
submitting a Redevelopment Grant Application to Minnesota DEED seeking funding
assistance to offset a portion of the land acquisition and expected building-structure
demolition costs. The City and EDA would ask the selected developer to cooperate in the
application process by providing as much detail information as can be made available to the
EDA regarding proposal concept renderings, projected job creation numbers, along with land
purchase, excavation, site preparation, and development costs. The State of Minnesota
Redevelopment Grant Program is a potential source of a modest amount of funding to
support the efforts for the Block and has historically accepted applications in early February
of each year.
Staff have also analyzed data indicating that the land and improvement values and ratios in
the Block will allow the formation of a new 25-year Redevelopment Tax Increment Financing
(TIF) District for purposes of providing assistance for redevelopment costs. It is anticipated
that when a Development Agreement is entered into with a prospective developer, a TIF
District can be simultaneously established and therein create a public sector financing
mechanism for eligible expenses such as land purchase costs, excavation, site preparation,
underground parking structure(s), utility relocates and extensions, parking surface, and
landscaping costs. Ideally, new finished development project tax values would be in a range
of$19 to $23 million dollars. That value range would generate enough increment to support
many of the EDA's objectives for the Block.
If you have an interest in the Block 52 Redevelopment Project, please complete the attached
RFQ(Request For Qualifications) Questionnaire and return to me by 4:30 p.m. May 4, 2021. If
you have any questions regarding the Questionnaire, feel free to contact me to discuss and or
clarify. Thank you for your time.
Jim Thares, Economic Development Manager
City of Monticello
505 Walnut Street, Suite 1
Monticello, MN 55362
Office Phone: 763-271-3254
Cell Phone: 612-219-8357
Email: jim.thares@ci.monticello.mn.us
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Part II
City of Monticello - Block 52 Horizontal Mixed-Use
Redevelopment Vision Description
Block 52 is one of the most visible blocks in Monticello. It is located near the State Highway
25 Mississippi River Bridge,the only river crossing in a 35-mile area, with over 36,500 vehicles
traveling past it each day. The Block also borders River Street, offering views of West Bridge
Park and the Mississippi River to the north. Broadway Street, the community's traditional
main street, fronts Block 52 to the south. Walnut Street, envisioned as a convertible street
suitable for community festivals and events, borders the west side of the Block.
Block 52 is located in the CCD (Central Community District). Utilization of Planned Unit
Development (PUD) on this Block would allow mixed use and development density at higher
levels.
Block 52 Redevelopment Goal-Vision per 2017 Downtown Small Area Study:
✓ Horizontal commercial-residential mixed-use, multi-story redevelopment
✓ Residential multi-family— Desired number of units= approximately 110+/- market
rate units
✓ Commercial Uses—Food-Beverage-Entertainment; Niche specialty retail
✓ Vertical mixed-use desired where possible - Retail-Service-Dining on ground Floor;
Office or service uses on second floor
✓ Up to five (5) stories in height with city review
Contemplated-Preferred Block 52 Development Scale:
➢ % block size or slightly larger=Ap proximately.50-acre, or
➢ % block size or slightly larger =Approximately 1 acre- Desirable
➢ The entire Block is approximately 2.5 acres (109,131 sq. ft.) Most desirable
Expected Block 52 Parking:
❖ Underground parking structure(s)
❖ Grade drop from Block 52 to River Street may accommodate development of
underground parking structures with entrance and exit points from River Street
❖ Mid-block or courtyard surface parking areas/lots
Desired Block 52 Amenities and Site Enhancements:
✓ Gateway site - "gateway to the City" from the north; proposal will need to incorporate
art and public and green space
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✓ Conscientious building design; required commercial architectural features, with a
mixture of masonry, glass, and architectural accent metal
✓ Will serve as the signature development in Monticello area and riverfront
Anticipated Block 52 Financial Assistance:
➢ Redevelopment Tax Increment Financing(TIF)
➢ TIF generation based on new development valuation—goal is to offset land costs and
parking structure expenses
Block 52 Site Control-Land Assembly:
❖ Monticello EDA and the City control 75 +/- percent of Block 52
❖ The EDA envisions the ability to assemble additional parcels through a voluntary sale
transaction process. The goal is acquire sufficient land to proceed with a meaningful
and impactful redevelopment project.
Jim Thares, Economic Development Manager
City of Monticello
505 Walnut Street, Suite 1
Monticello, MN 55362
Office Phone: 763-271-3254
Cell Phone: 612-219-8357
Email: iim.thares@ci.monticello.mn.us
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Block 52 Redevelopment Questionnaire
04-23-21
1. What is the developer's previous experience in working on
downtown or urbanized redevelopment projects?
2. Is the developer open to purchasing land from private property
owners in the target Block?
3. What is the developer's previous experience in acting as the land
purchasing entity-agent in redevelopment or vacant land
development projects?
4. Is the developer comfortable with developing vertical mixed-use
structures (ground floor commercial; upper floors residential)?
5. Is the developer interested in a long-term commitment as an
owner of multi-family residential property in Block 52?
6. Is the developer comfortable with constructing a higher-end
multi-family building?
7. What kind of finishes does the developer consider high-end in
multi-family buildings?
8. Is the developer open to partner investors in commercial stand
alone (horizontal mixed use or side by side mixed use) buildings?
9. Does the developer typically hold commercial property or is their
preference being a short-term commercial developer?
10. Is the developer open to entering into a Preliminary
Development Agreement with the EDA further defining Block 52
steps?
11. Is the developer capable of self-funding or financing the
redevelopment project?
12. What is the developer's estimate regarding value of total
investment in Block 52? Does the developer feel comfortable in
achieving a $19,000,000 to $22,000,000 investment level in the
Block?
13. How many multi-family units does the developer believe would
be necessary on the Block for financial feasibility?
14. How much commercial square footage does the developer
believe would be feasible? Where is that commercial square
footage most attractive on the block?
15. Would the developer want or need tax increment flow as a
component of overall project financing?
16.What other financial assistance is the developer anticipating to
support the redevelopment of Block 52?
17. Is the developer willing to pay the EDA for land that it has
acquired to alleviate cost for the EDA?
18. Does the developer have experience with environmental or
structural issues which may be common to downtown or
urbanized development?
19. Is the developer willing to be a collaborative partner and engage
with the EDA and City staff to accomplish shared vision and
objectives?
20. Provide project examples which past development projects
which are comparable examples of the type of development on
this block.