Present: Ray Gillen, Brad Lewis, Sharon Jordan, Karen Zalewski-Wildzunas, Bob Mantello, Todd Edwards, Neil Golub, Nancy Casso and Paul Webster
Absent: John Mallozzi, and Robert Dieterich
Others: Jim Callander, David Hogenkamp and audience of 3
Call to Order: Mr. Gillen called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
1. Approval of Minutes: Ms. Jordan moved adoption of the April 13, 2016 meeting minutes; seconded by Mr. Lewis and approved.
2. Treasurer’s Report: Jim Callander indicated there was little variance in the operating expenses or income through the first four months of the year and cash on hand was $4.93 million. Mr. Golub moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report; seconded by Ms. Jordan and approved.
3. Harbor Center Office Building: Resolution 1044-16 — Adopt General Project Plan
The Harbor Center project involved construction of a 65,800 square foot commercial building with first floor retail and underground and surface parking. A public hearing was held on the project May 5, 2016 and no written or oral comments were received. Resolution 1044-16 approved a 485 B Pilot that requires the developer to pay 50% of the property taxes in year one increasing 5% each year until year ten when full value is reached. This is consistent with City policies regarding new commercial buildings. Mr. Mantello moved Resolution 1044-16; seconded by Mr. Webster. Following discussion, Resolution 1044-16 was approved.
4. Curry Road Shopping Plaza Project: Resolution 1045-16 — Hold Public Hearing
Resolution 1045-16 authorized holding a public hearing for the redevelopment of the vacant and blighted Curry Road Plaza in Rotterdam. The development team has been enhanced with an additional investor, Richbell Capital. Metroplex participation will involve a dollar-for-dollar grant for asbestos abatement and demolition of the existing plaza not to exceed $350,000. Plans call for building 208 market-rate apartments, clubhouse, and redevelopment of the front portion of the site from commercial and retail use in a $20 million plus investment. Mr. Lewis moved Resolution 1045-16; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas and approved.
5. Draper Lofts Project: Resolution 1046-16 — Amend General Project Plan
Resolution 1046-16 amended the original general project plan to increase the grant by $75,000 for additional façade and landscaping improvements. The $13 million project represents a significant investment in the long vacant school. Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas moved Resolution 1046-16; seconded by Mr. Golub. Following discussion, Resolution 1046-16 was approved.
6. Laz Parking Contract: Resolution 1047-16 — Contract Extension
Resolution 1047-16 authorized a two-year contract extension with Laz Parking, which is contained in the 2011 Board-approved agreement. Laz Parking has been Metroplex’s parking manager since 2005 having qualified through two separate procurement processes. Mr. Golub moved Resolution 1047-16; seconded by Ms. Jordan. After brief discussion, Resolution 1047-16 was approved.
7. FY2016 Predevelopment Budget Project: Resolution 1048-16 — Supplement Budget
Resolution 1048-16 supplemented the FY-2016 Pre-development Budget with an additional $225,000. With Metroplex playing a meaningful role with project coordination and technical assistance of the Mohawk Harbor project, the Fiscal Audit Committee recommended making adequate resources available so the project continues to be developed on time and within budget. Resolution 1048-16 was moved by Ms. Jordan; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas and following discussion was approved.
8. 848 Eastern Avenue Project: Resolution 1049-16 — Adopt General Project Plan
The project involved the rehabilitation of the 5,700 square foot former Copper Keg bar at 848 Eastern Avenue. Metroplex participation involved a dollar-for-dollar matching $12,000 grant to the Land Bank for asbestos abatement and $20,000 matching grant to the future owner, Dr. Karimi Hakak, to complete façade improvements. Plans call for conversion to art studios and café. Resolution 1049-16 was moved by Ms. Jordan; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas. Following discussion about activities on Eastern Avenue, the resolution was approved.
Public Comment: None
Board Comment: Mr. Gillen noted that over $66 million of new investment in the County was approved at the meeting tonight. He also updated the Board on several projects including the JLA Apartments on Albany Street, Mohawk Harbor and the train station.
Adjournment: Mr. Webster moved to adjourn, seconded by Mr. Mantello. The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
David Hogenkamp
Project Director