Minutes of the special meeting of the Economic Development Authority of Apple Valley, Dakota County, Minnesota, held October 25, 2007, at 6:00 o'clock p.m., at the Apple Valley Municipal Center.

PRESENT: President Severson; Commissioners Bergman, Erickson, Goodwin, Grendahl, and Hamann-Roland.

ABSENT: None.

Staff members present were: Executive Director Lawell, Secretary Gackstetter, City Attorney Dougherty, City Engineer Manson, Finance Director Ballenger, Assistant City Administrator Grawe, Public Works Director Heuer, Police Chief Johnson, Public Works Superintendent Blommel Johnson, City Planner Lovelace, Community Development Director Nordquist, and Police Captain Rechtzigel.

President Severson called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

MOTION: of Hamann-Roland, seconded by Grendahl, approving the agenda for today's meeting as presented. Ayes - 5, Nays - 0.

MINUTES

MOTION: of Goodwin, seconded by Hamann-Roland, approving the minutes of the special meeting of September 12, 2007, as written. Ayes - 5, Nays - 0.

Commissioner Bergman joined the meeting at 6:05 p.m.

APPLE VALLEY TRANSIT STATION PERMIT PARKING

Mr. Lawell provided the history of the Apple Valley Transit Station and proposed permit parking program. He described how permit parking would work and presented a map showing the area which would be designated for permit parking as well as areas which would be open to all transit riders. He said the Dakota County Regional Rail Authority is scheduled to have a public purpose hearing on November 11, 2007, regarding the Watson's property. If the Regional Rail Authority and Watson's are able to come to an agreement, it may be possible to make arrangements for early use of their site for transit parking. If that were to happen, some of the concerns which prompted the proposed permit parking would be eliminated. Mr. Lawell asked the Commission if it wished to follow through with the permit parking at this time or wait until the Regional Rail Authority has its meeting.

Commissioner Grendahl suggested the item be tabled.

The Commission discussed the possibility of getting another express bus route to the area.

Mr. Lawell said if an agreement is reached with Watson's, it is possible the old site could be reverted to the EDA.

MOTION: of Hamann-Roland, seconded by Grendahl, to table action on the permit parking program. Ayes - 6, Nays - 0.

Mr. Lawell said it is his understanding that the City of Lakeville's Comprehensive Plan will not be approved unless it includes a transit plan.

Commissioner Grendahl said she was assured Lakeville will be required to join the Transit Taxing District by May 2008.

Mr. Lawell said the question is will they join Minnesota Valley Transit Authority or will they go with another transit provider like the City of Prior Lake.

Commissioner Goodwin stated he believes that if the City of Lakeville joins, the City of Farmington will naturally follow.

Commissioner Hamann-Roland wants the City and the County to work hard to keep Watson's in Apple Valley.

Commissioner Bergman said Dakota County Commissioner Branning told him it may not be possible to put Watson's store front closer to Cedar Avenue.

Commissioner Erickson asked if it is Watson's intention to close its Apple Valley store.

President Severson suggested staff have a conversation with Watson's.

Mr. Nordquist said he understands Watson's is looking for a 50,000 square foot property. He is not sure Apple Valley has a space to accommodate their needs, but stated he will follow up with them.

MOTION: of Grendahl, seconded by Erickson, to adjourn. Ayes - 6, Nays - 0.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 o'clock p.m.