HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001 LEDC minutesEconomic Development Corporation
of the City of Lansing
Special Board of Director's Meeting
Mayor's Conference Room
Ninth Floor, Lansing City Hall
Monday, February 26, 2001
11:00 A.M.
Members Present: Ann Brazeau; James Butler; David Hollister; Larry Meyer;
Joseph Pandy; Jeff Williams
Members Absent: Kim Coleman; Paula Cunningham; William Long
Temporary EDC
Members Present: None
Temporary EDC
Members Absent: Ed Carpenter; Jan Hayhow
Staff Present: Patricia Cook; Barbara Foreman
Guests Present: None
1) Call to Order
Treasurer Ann Brazeau called the meeting to order at 11:00 a.m.
2) Resolution of Inducement
a) Michigan Catholic Conference Development Project
Patricia Cook gave the Board a brief overview of the Michigan Catholic
Conference Development Project.
Motion - Larry Meyer motioned the Board to approve the
Resolution of Inducement and Intent to Issue
Revenue Bonds, to Proceed with a Project,
Appointing Bond Counsel, Designating Project
Area, Recommending Project District Area and
Requesting Appointment of Additional Directors.
James Butler seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
3) Public Comments
None
4) Adjournment
Treasurer Ann Brazeau declared the meeting adjourned at 11:20 a.m.
Minutes by B. Foreman
GA Q
Patricia A. Cook
EDC Manager
Economic Development Corporation
of the City of Lansing
Board of Director's Meeting
Ninth Floor, Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, March 7, 2001
4:00 P.M.
Members Present: Ann Brazeau; Kim Coleman; Paula Cunningham; William
Long; Larry Meyer; Joseph Pandy
Members Absent: James Butler; David Hollister; Jeff Williams
Temporary EDC
Members Present: Ed Carpenter
Temporary EDC
Members Absent: Jan Hayhow
Staff Present: Patricia Cook; Karl Dorshimer; Barbara Foreman; Tracy
Carney -Miller; Marchelle Smith
Guests Present: Harry Hepler
1) Call to Order
Chair Long called the meeting to order at 4:10 p.m.
2) Approval of the Special Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from December 6, 2000
Motion - Joe Pandy motioned the Board to approve the Special
Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from December 6,
2000 as presented and place them on file. Ann Brazeau
seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
3) Approval of the Special Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from February 26, 2001
Motion - Ann Brazeau motioned the Board to approve the Special
Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from February 26,
2001 as presented and place them on file. Kim Coleman
seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
4) Election of Officers
Motion - Joseph Pandy motioned the Board to approve the
following slate of officers thru December 31, 2001:
William Long - Chair
Kim Coleman - Vice -Chair
Paula Cunningham - Secretary
Ann Brazeau - Treasurer
Ann Brazeau seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
5) Financial Statements
a) Final June, 2000
b) Thru January, 2001
The Board unanimously agreed to receive and place on file the Final June, 2000
& thru January, 2001 Financial Statements as presented.
6) EDC/TIFA/LBRA 2000 Annual Report
The Board unanimously agreed to receive and place on file the EDC/TIFA/LBRA
2000 Annual Report as presented.
7) EDC/TIFA/LBRA 2001 Program & Goals
Motion - Larry Meyer motioned the Board to approve the
EDC/TIFA/LBRA 2001 Program & Goals as
presented. Ann Brazeau seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
a) Resolution Supporting EDC Contract w/City for FY `02
Motion - Ann Brazeau motioned the Board to approve the
Resolution Supporting the EDC's Contract with
the City of Lansing for FY `02 as presented.
Kim Coleman seconded the motion.
Yeas: Brazeau; Coleman; Long; Pandy
Abstain: Meyer
Paula Cunningham entered the meeting at 4:30 p.m.
8) EDC B.F.A.P. Projects
a) Presentation of Blue Coyote Facility Status - Harry Hepler
Harry Hepler informed the Board that plans for his property at 113 Pere Marquette
include both commercial and residential loft space on the second & third floors of the
building and development of the lower level into tenant parking. Harry stated that
a closing on the construction loan for this project (w/Trans Nation Title) is scheduled
to take place on March 16`h . At the time of closing funds will become available to pay
off his loan with the EDC in full.
b) Analysis of Program Loan Funds (thru 1/31/01)
The Board received a copy of the Analysis of Program Loan Funds dated 1/31/01,
which was prepared by Barbara Foreman.
Pat Cook informed the Board that the eviction for Elbinger Laboratories, Elbinger
Studios and Elbinger Imaging was complete on February 24`h . Pat stated that staff
will be putting together a package to market the property.
9) Other Business
a) Renewal of Retention Contract
Motion - Larry Meyer motioned the Board to support the
Renewal of the Retention Contract as presented.
Paula Cunningham seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
b) Update on Central Utilities Contract
Pat Cook stated that the EDC has continued to reach out to the Cinergy group and
the project continues to move forward, but at a much slower pace. Joe Pandy stated
that Cinergy is still interested in exploring financing with the EDC.
c) EDC Current Projects Update (December/January)
The Board received a copy of the EDC Activities Update (December, 2000/
January 2001), which was prepared by Tracy Carney -Miller.
Pat Cook informed the Board that staff has made a recommendation to the Mayor, which will
be forwarded to City Council and also Larry Meyer's committee, to assign Charles Janssen &
Jeffery McAlvey as the two temporary board members to serve on the EDC Board for the
Michigan Catholic Conference Project.
10) Public Comment
None.
11) Adjournment
Chair Long declared the meeting adjourned at 4:50 p.m.
Minutes by B. Foreman
�a t4,*_ 0� -
Patricia A. Cook
EDC Manager
i
Economic Development Corporation
of the City of Lansing
Special Board of Director's Meeting
Mayor's Conference Room
Ninth Floor, Lansing City Hall ,-
Wednesday, April 18, 2001 `-
9:00 A.M.
Members Present: Ann Brazeau; Paula Cunningham; David Hollister;
William Long; Larry Meyer; Joseph Pandy; Jeff Williams
Members Absent: James Butler; Kim Coleman
Temporary EDC
Members Present: Ed Carpenter; Jan Hayhow (Loans)
Charles Janssen; Jeff McAlvey (MCC Bond Project)
Staff Present: Patricia Cook; Karl Dorshimer; Barbara Foreman
Staff Absent: Tracy Carney -Miller; Marchelle Smith
Guests Present: Sister Monica; Joe Mahoney
1) Call to Order
Chair Long called the meeting to order at 9:10 a.m.
2) Approval of the Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from March 7, 2001
Motion - Larry Meyer motioned the Board to approve the
Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from March
7, 2001 as presented and place them on file.
David Hollister seconded the motion.
Yeas:
3) Financial Statements
a) Through February, 2001
Unanimous. Motion carried.
The Board unanimously agreed to receive and place on file the Financial Statements
(thru February, 2001) as presented.
I'J
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4) Michigan Catholic Conference EDC Bond Project
a) Resolution Approving Project Plan
Motion - David Hollister motioned the Board to approve the
Resolution Approving the Project Plan for the
Michigan Catholic Conference Project, as presented,
with two changes to the Project Plan document (1) on
page 2 of the document the address will be changed to
read 510 S. Capitol Ave. and (2) on page 3 the square
footage will be changed to 53,000 sq. ft. Ann Brazeau
seconded the motion.
Yeas: Brazeau; Hollister; Janssen; Long; McAlvey; Meyer;
Pandy; Williams
Motion carried.
Paula Cunningham entered the meeting at 9:20 a.m.
5) EDC B.F.A.P. Projects
a) Analysis of Program Loan Funds (thru 2/28/01)
The Board received a copy of the Analysis of Program Loan Funds (thru 2/28/01),
which was prepared by Barbara Foreman.
Patricia Cook informed the Board that the Blue Coyote Loan has been paid
in full.
Pat also informed the Board that the EDC is now the owner of the property
at 1132 - 1136 N. Washington Avenue. An open house will be held within the
next two weeks as part of the effort to market the property.
6) Other Business
None.
Paula Cunningham was called away from the meeting at 9:29 a.m.
7) Public Comment
None.
S) Adjournment
Chair Long declared the meeting adjourned at 9:30 a.m.
Minutes by B. Foreman
Q�e U, +1.�.
Patricia A. Cook
EDC Manager
Economic Development Corporation
of the City of Lansing
Board of Director's Meeting
Mayor's Conference Room
Ninth Floor, Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, June 6, 2001
4:00 P.M.
Members Present: Ann Brazeau; James Butler; Kim Coleman; David Hollister;
William Long; Jeff Williams
Members Absent: Paula Cunningham; Larry Meyer; Joseph Pandy
Temporary EDC
Members Present: Ed Carpenter; Jan Hayhow (Loans)
Charles Janssen; Jeff McAlvey (MCC Bond Project)
Staff Present: Patricia Cook; Karl Dorshimer; Barbara Foreman; Tracy
Carney -Miller; Marchelle Smith
Guests Present: William Cook; Pat Greeve; Kester So
1) Call to Order
Chair Long called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m.
2) Approval of the Special Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from April 18, 2001
Motion - David Hollister motioned the Board to approve the Special
Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from April 18, 2001
as presented and place them on file. Ann Brazeau seconded
the motion.
Yeas:
3) Financial Statements
a) Through April, 2001
Unanimous. Motion carried.
The Board unanimously agreed to receive and place on file the Financial Statements
(thru April, 2001) as presented.
James Butler entered the meeting at 4:10 p.m.
4) Michigan Catholic Conference EDC Bond Project
Kester So, from Dickinson Wright, gave the Board a brief overview of the Michigan
Catholic Conference EDC Bond Project. Further, Kester So outlined the form of the
bond closing documents.
a) Resolution Approving Issuance of Bonds
Motion - David Hollister motioned the Board to support the
Resolution Approving Issuance of Bonds for the
Michigan Catholic Conference EDC Bond Project
as presented. Ann Brazeau seconded the motion.
Yeas: Brazeau; Butler; Coleman; Hollister; Long; Williams;
Janssen; McAlvey
Motion carried.
Ed Carpenter entered the meeting at 4:30 p.m.
5) EDC Budget - FY 01/02
Patricia Cook gave the board an overview of the FY 01/02 EDC Budget & responded to
questions regarding the budget's detail.
Motion - Kim Coleman motioned the Board to approve the EDC
Budget (FY 01/02) as presented. Jeff Williams seconded
the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
a) EDC Personnel Policies/Employee Handbook
As follow-up to an inquiry by an EDC board member a few years ago regarding policies
for EDC employees, EDC staff members, with the advice from Board member Ann
Brazeau, have been developing a Personnel Policy/Employee Handbook. Included in
this handbook are prior EDC board policies relating to Fringe Benefits and Family
Medical Leave Act.
Motion - David Hollister motioned the Board to accept and place
on file the EDC Personnel Policies/Employee Handbook
as presented. Kim Coleman seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
b) Long Term Disability - Fringe Benefit
Following a request from EDC staff members to consider offering (as part of the EDC's
cafeteria of fringe benefits package) long term disability insurance, EDC Manager,
Patricia Cook is recommending the EDC board support the presented Long Term
Disability proposal.
Motion - David Hollister motioned the Board to approve the
Long Term Disability Fringe Benefit for EDC employees
as presented. Kim Coleman seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
6) EDC B.F.A.P. Projects
a) Analysis of Program Loan Funds (Thru 4/30/01)
The Board received a copy of the Analysis of Program Loan Funds (thru 4/30/01),
which was prepared by Barbara Foreman.
7) Other Business
a) EDC Projects Update (February thru May, 2001)
The Board received a copy of the EDC Projects Update (February thru May, 2001),
which was prepared by Tracy Carney -Miller.
b) LCMF Projects Update
The Board received a copy of the Lansing Community MicroEnterprise Fund's
newsletter.
8) Public Comments
None.
9) Adjournment
Chair Long declared the meeting adjourned at 5:05 p.m.
Minutes by B. Foreman
Patricia A. Cook, EDC Manager
Members Present:
Members Absent:
Temporary EDC
Members Present:
Staff Present:
Guests Present:
1) Call to Order
Economic Development Corporation
of the City of Lansing
Board of Director's Meeting
Mayor's Conference Room
Ninth Floor, Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, October 3, 2001
4:00 P.M.
Ann Brazeau; James Butler; William Cook; Paula Cunningham;
David Hollister; William Long; Larry Meyer; Jeff Williams
Kim Coleman
Ed Carpenter; Jan Hayhow
Patricia Cook; Karl Dorshimer; Barbara Foreman; Tracy
Carney -Miller; Marchelle Smith
Harold Leeman; Denise Peeks; Christine Xantheas
Chair Long called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m.
2) Approval of the Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from September 5, 2001
Motion - Ann Brazeau motioned the Board to approve the Board
of Director's Meeting Minutes from September 5, 2001
as presented (with one change under Item 3 - Deborah
Windish of IBM will be changed to Deborah Windish
of MBI) and place them on file. William Cook seconded
the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
3) Offer to Purchase 1132-1136 N. Washington Avenue
Patricia Cook informed the Board that the EDC has received a second offer from Diane
Burns ( D.R. Development, LLC) to purchase the Washington Ave. property in the amount
of $275,000. Pat asked the Board for their support to move forward with the $275,000
offer and structure an agreement to bring this to a successful conclusion by Dec. 15`h, `01.
Ed Carpenter entered the meeting at 4:20 p.m.
Motion - William Cook motioned the Board to authorize EDC staff
to proceed to negotiate a final sale of the property on the
premise that the sale would be no less than $275,000. Larry
Meyer seconded the motion.
Yeas: Brazeau; Butler; Carpenter; Cook; Cunningham; Hayhow;
Hollister; Long; Meyer; Williams
Motion carried unanimously.
4) Proposed Changes To BFAP
The Board received a copy of the 2nd "draft" of proposed changes to the Business
Financing Assistance Program.
Motion - James Butler motioned the Board to approve the amended
BFAP changes as presented. Jan Hayhow seconded the
motion.
Yeas: Brazeau; Butler; Carpenter; Cook; Cunningham; Hayhow;
Hollister; Long; Meyer; Williams
Motion carried unanimously.
5) Loan Guarantee - Lansing Community MicroEnterprise Fund
Denise Peeks, Executive Director of the of the Lansing Community Micro -Enterprise
Fund, requested that the EDC Board consider support of the Project for another year.
Patricia Cook informed the Board that in the past year there have been no defaults
on any of the loans and the loan guarantee amount for the year beginning November
6, 2001 thru November 6, 2002 would be $17,765.35.
Motion - William Cook motioned the Board to approve re -authorization
of the $17,765.35 Loan Guarantee for the Micro -Enterprise
Loan Fund (November 6, 2001 thru November 6, 2002).
Jeff Williams seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
6) EDC Projects
a) Analysis of BFAP Program (thru 8/31/01)
The Board received a copy of the Analysis of Program Loan Funds (thru 8/31/10),
which was prepared by Barbara Foreman.
7) Other Business
None.
8) Public Comment
None.
9) Adjournment
Chair Long declared the meeting adjourned at 4:50 p.m.
Minutes by B. Foreman
as it �.
Patricia A. Cook
EDC Manager
Economic Development Corporation
of the City of Lansing
Board of Director's Meeting
Mayor's Conference Room
Ninth Floor, Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, November 7, 2001
4 P.M.
Members Present: Ann Brazeau; Kim Coleman; William Cook; Paula
Cunningham; David Hollister; William Long
Members Absent: James Butler; Larry Meyer; Jeff Williams
Temporary EDC
Members Absent: Ed Carpenter; Jan Hayhow
Staff Present: Patricia Cook; Karl Dorshimer; Barbara Foreman;
Tracy Carney -Miller; Marchelle Smith
Guests Present: None
At 4:05 p.m. a quorum was not presented and Chair Long suggested that the Board proceed
and discuss non -action items on the Agenda.
3) EDC Projects
a) Analysis of BFAP Program (thru 9/30/01)
The Board received a copy of the Analysis of Program Loan Funds, which was
prepared by Barbara Foreman.
4) Other Business
b) Update on sale of 1132-36 N. Washington Bldg.
Patricia Cook informed the Board that she and Marchelle have structured a counter
offer which she will present to Diane Burns tomorrow. Pat stated that she is expecting
to close the sale of the property with Diane Burns (D.R. Development, LLC) sometime
in late December.
David Hollister entered the meeting at 4:14 p.m. and a quorum was now present.
1) Call to Order
Chair Long called the meeting to order at 4:15 p.m.
2) Approval of the Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from October 3, 2001
Motion - Paula Cunningham motioned the Board to approve the
Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from October 3,
2001 as presented and place them on file. William
Cook seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
4) Other Business
a) Update on Plas Labs (EDC Bond Project)
Karl Dorshimer stated that Plas Labs will not be re -locating their business to the
Corporate Research Park. Karl further stated that Plas Labs will remain in Lansing
and they are currently negotiating the purchase of a 27,000 sq. ft. building in
N. Lansing, formerly the Bunday Building.
Kim Coleman entered the meeting at 4:19 p.m.
c) Update on "Street Art" Program
Marchelle Smith informed the Board that Downtown Lansing, Inc., in partnership
with the EDC, the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, the GLCVB, the Lansing Art
Gallery, the City of Lansing and the PSD, is planning a new event for downtown
Lansing. The event is called "Sculpture in the Streets" which will be an outdoor
exhibit of fifteen life-size bronze sculptures to be placed on Washington Square
in the summer of 2002. The cost of the exhibit will be $30,000 for a three month
rental of the sculptures. Downtown Lansing, Inc. will be the fund-raising arm
of the project.
5) Public Comment
None.
6) Adjournment
Chair Long declared the meeting adjourned at 4:23 p.m.
Minutes by B. Foreman
Patricia A. Cook
EDC Manager
Economic Development Corporation
of the City of Lansing
Board of Director's Meeting
Mayor's Conference Room
Ninth Floor, Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, December 5, 2001
4 P.M.
Members Present: Ann Brazeau; Kim Coleman; William Cook; William
Long; Larry Meyer; Jeff Williams
Members Absent: James Butler; Paula Cunningham; David Hollister
Temporary EDC
Members Present: Jan Hayhow
Temporary EDC
Members Absent: Ed Carpenter
Staff Present: Patricia Cook; Barbara Foreman; Tracy Carney -Miller;
Marchelle Smith
Guests Present: Charlie Hawes; Dave Tijerina
1) Call to Order
Chair Long called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m.
2) Approval of the Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from November 7, 2001
Motion - Kim Coleman motioned the Board to approve the
Board of Director's Meeting Minutes from November
7, 2001 as presented and place them on file. Ann
Brazeau seconded the motion.
Yeas:
3) EDC FY 00/01 Audit
Unanimous. Motion carried.
Motion - Larry Meyer motioned the Board to receive and place on
file the FY `2000/2001 "Draft" Audit as presented by
Charlie Hawes of Kutas & Hawes, P.C. Kim Coleman
seconded the motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
4) EDC Projects
a) Analysis of BFAP (thru 10/31/01)
The Board received a copy of the Analysis of Program Loan Funds, which was prepared
by Barbara Foreman.
5) Other Business
a) Amendments to MEDC Interlocal Agreement
Patricia Cook reminded the Board that in December of 1999 the EDC entered into an
Interlocal Agreement with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation which
affords the EDC the opportunity to be in partnership with the MEDC and look forward
to collaborating with them on projects in the future. The Interlocal Agreement also
allows the EDC the opportunity to have a board member on the MEDC Board.
Currently, Dennis Sykes is the EDC's representative.
Patricia Cook gave the Board a brief overview of the proposed amendments to the
Interlocal Agreement.
Motion - Larry Meyer motioned the Board to approve the Resolution
approving the Amendments to the MEDC Interlocal Agreement
as presented by Patricia Cook. Kim Coleman seconded the
motion.
Yeas: Unanimous. Motion carried.
b) Update on sale of 113 2-3 6 N. Washington Avenue Bldg.
Marchelle Smith informed the Board that she is hopeful that a closing with Diane
Burns (D.R. Development, LLC) on the Washington Avenue property will be
sometime in late January, `02.
c) EDC Brochures
Board members received a copy of the new EDC Brochure, which outlines EDC
services. The brochure was created by Tracy Carney -Miller.
6) Public Comment
None.
7) Adjournment
Chair Long declared the meeting adjourned at 4:21 p.m.
Minutes by B. Foreman
G�
Patricia A. Cook
EDC Manager
ANNUAL BOARD REPORT FOR THE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION,
TAX INCREMENT FINANCE AUTHORITY
AND BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
OF THE CITY OF LANSING
EVALUATION FOR THE 2001 CALENDAR YEAR WORK PROGRAM
EDC, TIFA & LBRA Administration and Management Objectives:
Goal: Finalize Development of a comprehensive employment policy.
Status: The EDC staff prepared and finalized an employment policy and
employee handbook.
Goal: Finalize development of a web site for the EDC, TIFA & LBRA programs.
Status: A website prototype has been developed and is in the review
process for placement on the web. Refinement of the website will be an
ongoing task.
Goal: Continue to explore additional funding opportunities for future EDC business
loan program.
Status: The EDC continues to explore financing the Central Utilities
Complex for G.M. Platinum project as a source of future revenue from
issuer's fees and bond financing.
Goal: Continue to support departmental strategic planning, outcome and
performance measurements and the use of technology to improve efficiency.
Status: The EDC has continued to upgrade computer and other office
equipment as necessary and, through development of the website, has
begun to consider methods by which EDC, LBRA &TIFA services and
programs could be made available online (applications, information, etc.).
Goal: Continue to work on developing a set of marketing tools which will continue
to better promote EDC initiatives.
Status: The EDC has prepared three new brochures for LBRA and EDC
activities and one brochure on Downtown Revitalization initiatives.
Additionally, staff worked to complete a 2001 Development Report which
highlights key development projects and an Annual Report, which is
intended to showcase the EDC's role within the City and other efforts
currently underway.
2001 Board Report 1 January 11, 2002
Goal: Administerthe EDC, TIFA & LBRA including all correspondence & documents
for Board meetings, facilitate the annual audits, prepare financial statements,
coordinate monthly committee and standing committee meetings - as needed, and
confer with legal council regarding business loans, legislative changes and other
topics as required.
Status: The EDC staff has continued to complete all administrative functions
of the EDC, TIFA and LBRA agencies.
Business Retention, Attraction & Expansion Efforts:
Goals: Continue to provide any assistance necessary to support ongoing GM
projects in Lansing.
Status: The EDC has continued to play an important role in facilitating the
GM projects which are currently underway in the City.
Goal: Prepare appropriate agreements with other local governments to support
future economic development projects.
Status: The EDC participated in City efforts to partner with DeWitt Twp and
create a development proposal to attract the Air Wisconsin maintenance
facility to Lansing.
Goal: Partner with MEDC, LCC & REDT for site searches and business
attraction/expansion activities.
Status: EDC Staff continues to respond to site search requests from our
local partners and businesses.
Goal: Focus attraction efforts on GM suppliers and high-tech businesses which
include advanced manufacturing and biotechnology firms.
Status: EDC Staff provided site and incentive information to several GM
Suppliers. The EDC continued to develop the Lansing Regional SmartZone
to attract and grow high-tech businesses in Lansing.
Goal: Partner with Ingham County EDC and MEDC to conduct 400 annual business
calls in Lansing and Ingham County; continue Business Retention Program and
utilization of retention contractor.
Status: Over 240 Lansing businesses were personally called on during the
2001 calendar year. These efforts keep the EDC and City in a proactive
position regarding business development and assistance.
2001 Board Report 2 January 11, 2002
Goal: Continue assisting all general business inquiries.
Status: The EDC has continued to receive calls of a "general business"
nature throughout the past year. The EDC either assists these
individuals/businesses directly, or makes referrals to appropriate
agencies/persons. Annual average of general calls approximate 500.
Business Financing & Incentive Assistance:
Goal: Continue to facilitate the processing of new BFAP applications.
Status: Despite ongoing efforts to promote the program, the EDC did not
receive any applications for BFAP loans. As a result, the loan guidelines
were modified to allow an increase in the maximum loan amount, reduction
in the interest loan rate and expand the geographical area within the
downtown area that loan applicants would be considered from.
Goal: Continue to provide financing assistance to any eligible business or
organization requesting tax exempt bond issuance.
Status: The EDC was able to issue a $10,000,000 tax exempt bond to help
finance the construction of a new headquarter building for the Michigan
Catholic Conference in downtown Lansing.
Goal: Assist in the review of any new LCMF loan requests.
Status: The EDC continues, along with the City, to jointly guarantee the
Lansing Community Micro -Enterprise Fund loans. Staff also serves on the
LCMF Board and Chairs the LCMF Loan Committee. Over the last year the
LCMF made 6 loans to small businesses and trained 33 people on how to
start their own business.
Goal: Facilitate the completion of any new tax abatement requests.
Status: Staff assisted Strategic Interactive to apply and receive tax
abatement for their expansion project in Lansing.
Goal: Continue to provide grant application assistance to other City departments,
as needed.
Status: The EDC continued to assist the City of Lansing with the
administration of several grant programs:
• Continued to assist with administration of $5 million MEDC grant for
General Motors Corporation (GM) infrastructure development.
2001 Board Report 3 January 11, 2002
• Continued to assist with administration of $1 million MDEQ grant for
GM environmental activities.
• Continued administration of two CMI Waterfront Redevelopment
grants for projects located in the Old Town area.
• Assisted the City of Lansing in the application for an Enhancement
Grant through MDOT for streetscape improvements in the 100-500
South Blocks of Washington Square.
Regional Cooperation:
Goal: Actively participate in the RED Team, Inc., including participation in
committees and Board of Directors. Actively participate with the Michigan Downtown
Financing Association to coordinate with other cities within the State on downtown
revitalization. Continue to work with the RED Team, Inc., MSU and MEDC to recruit
and retain MSU students into the local workforce.
Status: EDC staff continued to play an active leadership role on the RED
Team, Inc. Activities included:
• Staff held President, Treasurer and Past President positions on RED
Team, Inc. Board of Directors.
• Staff participated on Long Range Planning committee.
• Staff chaired Workforce Committee
• Staff played an active part on Link Michigan Committee.
Goal: Continue working with regional partners on economic strategies and
workforce development issues.
Status: Staff participated in strategic regional visioning process conducted
by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Goal: Continue participation in workforce development, career preparation and
school to work programs with LSD, Capital Area Michigan Works, Chamber of
Commerce, LCC, MSU, General Motors, Trade Unions, MEDC and CLASS.
Status: Staff serves on regional Workforce Development Board; Career
Connections Board and as co-chair of the Marketing Committee that promotes
regional school to career preparation activities.
Special Projects:
Goal: Continue to monitor the City's debt service for new court facility.
Status: Project completed. TIFA pays bi-annual debt service on newfacility.
2001 Board Report 4 January 11, 2002
Goal: Assist in exploring the development of a new Arts and Education Center.
Status: EDC staff continues to play an active and important role in
facilitating the development of a new Arts & Education Center and
exploration of possible funding opportunities.
Goal: Explore the feasibility of expanding the Lansing Center.
Status: A study was completed which demonstrated the need for an
expansion to the Lansing Center. The EDC continues to remain active in
discussions relating to moving this project to fruition.
Goal: Continue to explore the development of EDC Property.
Status: As expansion plans for the Lansing Center continue, the
development of the EDC property continues to be discussed and explored.
Goal: Continue to pursue revenue generating projects for the EDC, TIFA & LBRA.
Status: Staff continues promote private development projects to generate
property tax revenue capture that assist in funding general operations of the
EDC office.
Goal: Continue to participate in the Mayor's Parking Advisory Committee Initiatives.
Status: In conjunction with the City's Parking and Transportation Office, the
EDC has finished developing marketing materials for parking program
incentives for downtown residents and businesses. The material has been
inserted into the Business Recruitment brochure and distributed to interested
parties.
Goal: Continue to explore financing the Central Utilities Complex for G. M. Platinum
Facility.
Status: The EDC continues to explore the possibility of financing the CUC
for General Motors.
Goal: Work with developers and state government on major downtown construction
and redevelopment projects.
Status: The EDC has continued to work closely with developers and state
government on several major downtown construction and redevelopment
projects including the following:
Redevelopment of former Civic Center site, now the "Constitution
Hall" building.
Development of the "Hall of Justice" building on MLK.
2001 Board Report 5 January 11, 2002
• Continue to work with developers and other City departments on the
redevelopment of the "Triangle site" and the "BWL Coal Storage site".
Application to Michigan Department of Transportation for a
Streetscape Enhancement Grant for the 100-500 South blocks of
Washington Square.
• Completed streetscape improvements to the 100 North Block of
Washington Square.
• Financed with tax exempt bonds the Michigan Catholic Conference
project
Goal: Work with the Board of Water & Light (BWL) to develop the Ottawa Street
Power Station.
Status: The EDC has continued to work with the BWL on the redevelopment
of the Power Station. The LBRA has forwarded a Brownfield Plan, which
includes the Power Station, to the Lansing City Council for consideration.
Additionally, the EDC continues to work with the MEDC to secure the CMI
Waterfront Redevelopment grant for this project.
Goal: EDC will continue to partner with CATA, local and state partners to participate
and support ongoing technical planning/analysis and building community support
for the Lansing to Detroit Passenger Rail Project.
Status: This project is progressing into the pre -engineering stage. Staff will
assist in the preparation of a "New Starts" application for project funding from
the Federal Transportation Administration.
Goal: Assist the PND with developing the BTS site with partners including Eastside
Neighborhood Organization, Lansing School District and Sparrow Health Systems.
Status: The EDC has continued to support the development of the BTS site
by working with developers and other city departments. Specifically, the
LBRA has forwarded a Brownfield Plan to the Lansing City Council and has
used EPA grant funds to pay for environmental assessment work on the site
in preparation of development.
Goal: Participate in South Lansing Ad Hoc Committee Implementation Task Force
Initiatives.
Status: EDC staff has continued to play an active role on the Task Force
charged with implementation of recommendations stemming from the South
Lansing Ad Hoc Committee.
2001 Board Report 6 January 11, 2002
Program Areas:
Goal: Continue to promote the PSD and Entertainment district to businesses.
Status: Continued to promote the PSD and Entertainment district to
businesses, including:
• Partnered with the PSD to complete a Business Recruitment and
Marketing Brochure and distributed to local area businesses, property
owners, realtors and developers.
• Visited outside businesses to recruit to Lansing for either relocation
or expansion.
• Participated in Blue Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies for new downtown
businesses.
• Participated in a Task Force and Events Committee to promote a "life-
like" art exhibit for "Sculptures in the Streets".
• Staff has assisted with a Maintenance Management Plan to better
manage contractors for the care of streetscape elements in the
downtown.
• Staff has assisted with a Wayfinding System Design to be
implemented for five City parking ramps and for the 100 North block
of Washington Square initially, while looking at a total vision of
wayfinding for the downtown area that could ultimately be
implemented Citywide.
Goal: Continue to implement the recommendations of the Downtown Blue Ribbon
Committee.
Status: Staff continues to promote and administer downtown initiatives in
order to provide implementation of Blue Ribbon Committee
recommendations. Initiatives include:
• A Business Financing Assistance Program to attract and expand
retail/commercial development;
• A Facade/Loft Grant Program to assist in facade improvements and
new loft development, and;
• A Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Program for property tax
abatements on new construction and rehabilitated properties.
Goal: Promote and administer the Facade Improvement & Loft Housing
Construction grant programs.
Status: Four facade renovations have been completed, three are near
completion and five project are currently in the planning stages. Award
Certificates have been given to those business and property owners whose
projects have been completed. EDC staff continues to promote the Grant
program to other downtown property and business owners.
2001 Board Report 7 January 11, 2002
Status: Construction of two new luxury lofts has been completed using the
Loft Construction grant program. EDC staff continue to promote the Grant
program to other downtown property and business owners.
Goal: Promote and administer the Business Finance Assistance Program (BFAP).
Status: Continued to promote and administer the BFAP Loan Program as
fol lows:
• Initiated and provided follow up for a "mass mailing" of information on
the BFAP program to business and property owners in the targeted
area of the Washington Square Corridor.
• Staff provided recommendations on modifications to program
guidelines in order to allow an increase in the maximum loan amount,
reduction in the interest loan rate and an expansion of the
geographical area within the downtown.
• Staff conducted visits to interview existing loan recipients as to the
soundness and success of the businesses and obtain required
financial information.
• Extended a Loan Guarantee Agreement between the EDC and the
Lansing Community Microenterprise Fund.
• Marketed, negotiated and accepted Purchase Offer on the property
located at 1132/36 N. Washington Avenue.
Goal: Continue to support the development of Old Town, work with Old Town
Commercial Association and other partners.
Status: Continued to participate in Economic Restructuring Committee
Meetings and assist in business retention activities as well as act as an
ombudsman and liaison between Old Town businesses and City agencies.
Goal: Continue to provide general administration of RZ program and marketing
information to developers.
Status: The EDC promoted and administered all documentation relating to
property and taxpayer eligibility for the Renaissance Zone program.
Provided marketing of available Renaissance Zone locations to developers
and businesses.
The EDC also developed and submitted several articles for the 7 -block
newsletter.
2001 Board Report 8 January 11, 2002
Goal: Continue to promote the NEZ program, facilitate applications and establish
new zones, as appropriate.
Status: Efforts to promote the NEZ program as follows:
Created Zone #14 in the downtown North Washington Square area.
Eleven(11) new construction NEZ certificates were issued for "On the
Grand Condominiums" on Turner Street in Old Town.
Updated Informational and Application Packets for both Residential
Rehabilitation and New Construction NEZ Certificates as well as
prepare a basic information packet on both types of NEZ's.
• Staff participated with the State of Michigan to provide recommended
changes to the NEZ legislation, most of which were legislatively
incorporated into the new legislation.
Goal: Administer the $200,000 EPA grant for a Brownfield Inventory and site
assessments.
Status: The LBRA has nearly completed work on the Brownfield Inventory
and has completed assessment work on five brownfield sites, including
preparation of Brownfield Plans. The LBRA has also applied for
supplemental funding under this program.
Goal: Apply for an additional EPA grant to perform remediation activities and
capitalize the LBRA revolving fund.
Status: The LBRA applied for and was awarded a grant in the amount of
$835,000 from the EPA for the completion of select cleanup activities on
Brownfield sites.
Goal: Utilize and promote the use of brownfield incentives for the redevelopment
of contaminated, blighted or obsolete properties in the City.
Status: The LBRA prepared and forwarded eight Brownfield Plans to the
Lansing City Council for their consideration and approval. Each plan details
a specific redevelopment effort which will be undertaken as a result of the
Brownfield incentives.
Goal: Continue to work to establish six sub-SmartZones in Lansing and East
Lansing.
Status: Lansing was successfully awarded 2 sub -zones in the City. Staff is
working with East Lansing to create a joint Local Development Finance
Authority to use tax increment financing to grow high-tech businesses in both
areas of the Lansing Regional SmartZone.
2001 Board Report 9 January 11, 2002
Goal: Continue to promote IT economic development by implementing a
Comprehensive Strategic Plan to improve infrastructure in the City.
Status: The TIFA has funded and facilitated the City of Lansing's
Information Technology Readiness Assessment and creation of an E-
conomic Development Plan.
EDC staff now provides coordination of the IT Implementation Team efforts
to implement goals and objectives outlined in the E-conomic Development
Plan. EDC staff has participated with other City departments in discussions
with IT Service Providers and others regarding availability and installation
of higher capacity connectivity options within the City.
2001 Board Report 10 January 11, 2002