EDA Meeting Minutes - 12/11/2024 (Workshop)MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING WORKSHOP - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA)
Wednesday, December 11, 2024 — 4:45 p.m.
Academy Room, Monticello Community Center
Commissioners Present: President Steve Johnson, Vice President Jon Morphew, 011ie
Koropchak-White, Rick Barger, Mayor Lloyd Hilgart
Commissioners Absent: Councilmember Tracy Hinz, Hali Sittig
Staff Present: Executive Director Jim Thares, Community Development Director
Angela Schumann, Community and Economic Development
Coordinator Tyler Bevier
1. Call to Order
President Steve Johnson called the workshop meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.
2. Roll Call
Mr. Johnson called the roll.
A. GMEF Pre -Application Review — Nordic Brewpub Proposal
Economic Development Manager Jim Thares presented an overview of this item.
Zach Barthel has applied for a GMEF loan. The preapplication is in the packet. Mr.
Thares walked through the application and proposal in the proposal.
Mr. Barthel is interested in purchasing Frank & Bessie's Attic Antique Store's current
location on Block 52 and moving Nordic Brewing to that location and is seeking a
GMEF loan which he is eligible. He will be requesting a Fagade Improvement
Forgivable Loan in spring 2026. Mr. Barthel stated that he is hoping to have control
of the property in January of 2026.
This property is zoned such that this use is permitted.
Mr. Barthel reviewed his business, with a full restaurant and full bar. They would
also like to expand to rooftop seating. The current location is a large space and not
used with rent is increasing; Nordic would like to own instead of renting. They have
approval for bank loans.
Nordic has been looking for a relocation site and Mr. Barthel feels this property
would fulfill their needs. Other cities have actively been recruiting Nordic to relocate
to their city, however, they wish to stay in Monticello.
Currently, Nordic does participate in local events and feels this location would help
them to continue.
011ie Koropchak-White inquired if the Kjellberg family had sold the property. Mr.
Thares said they have not. Mr. Barthel has been meeting with the Kjellberg family to
discuss a purchase agreement.
Ms. Koropchak-White inquired if there was a garage attached and what the plans
would be for the use. Mr. Barthel would be used for walk in freezer and walk in
coolers.
Ms. Koropchak-White inquired if Mr. Barthel had gotten estimates on building roof
dining. Mr. Barthel has been working with a contractor and there is not an issue with
creating the rooftop dining. He is working on estimates and with local building
officials to follow ordinances. He feels the roof top dining will be an anchor for the
community and will draw people from outside the area.
Mr. Johnson asked if there is sufficient parking. Mr. Barthel said patrons may have to
park a little bit away, however, people believe this is a normal situation for
downtown businesses. The Monticello Help Center has agreed to contract up to 20
parking spaces. It is 2 blocks away.
Mr. Johnson asked Angela Schumann, Community Development Director, to address
the parking demand and employee parking. Ms. Schumann explained that the most
important thing is to get people downtown. If people cannot find parking places
there are ways to address this. The city can stripe stalls and there is room for some
pocket parking. There are several opportunities for joint parking and other options.
Mayor Hilgart explained that people will walk if there is something they are excited
to get to, Ms. Schumann agreed.
Mr. Johnson inquired if an architect had gone through the property with Mr. Barthel.
Mr. Barthel said an electrician has walked through; however, he has not acquired an
architect. He has experience in construction as well as his father and will do much of
the work themselves, which will save money.
Ms. Koropchak-White inquired how large the property is. Mr. Barthel addressed it is
roughly 4500 square feet.
After further discussion the EDA is encouraged and asked Mr. Barthel to continue
the process and come back to the EDA with a complete application.
4. Discussion -Formulation of 2025-2027 EDA Workplan (Goals and
Objectives) with Worksheet
Mr. Thares introduced the item. The last plan was 2022-2024 and this plan presented
is 2025-2027. Mr. Thares reviewed the plan quickly and requested the EDA
Commissioners to complete the questionnaire from the packet.
MEETING WAS ADJOURNED BY CONSENSOUS.
Recorder: Vicki Leerhoff
Approved: January 8, 2025
Attest:
Jim TFOres, Ifconomic Development Manager