RDA Min 1999-05-17 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The motion passed unanimously by those present with Director Jordan and Chairwoman Howard absent. B. Downtown Retail-Cinema Project-Selection of Master Developer for Exclusive Right to Negotiate (ERN) 7:40 p.m. - Director Ira left the dais for Item 3B after stating having clients who are adjacent to the project area, he would be excusing himself because of a conflict of interest. Vice Chair Ruskin explained the discussion would not be to approve a final project, but one in a series of steps in regards to a potential retail cinema project downtown. Proposals have been sought and the process now is to grant one of the master developers the exclusive right to negotiate. Planning and Redevelopment Manager Church explained the recommendation is to select the team of the Innisfi'ee Companies/Century Cinemas to negotiate a disposition development agreement between the Redevelopment Agency and the development team. This agreement would provide the parties to the agreement 9 months to negotiate an agreement. The time involved is required for the developer to do an Environmental Impact Report on the area prior to entering into a disposition development agreement and either begin if not complete the architectural review process. Sub-Committee Chair Hartnett added further background dating back to May of 1997 when theatre operators and developers inquired about locating a multi-complex theatre in that specific downtown area. After extensive work by the committee which included members from the Planning Commission and the Architectural Review Committee and site visits to the two final developer teams, the committee is recommending unanimously, the [nnisfree team be granted an exclusive right to negotiate which would start a further public process. At that point, the design would be aired, the public and the Council can comment, Architectural Review Committee involved, the EIR done and further negotiations with the development team can occur on the substance and financial side of the project. Directors comments included concern with Architectural Concept (item 6a of agreement) needing to be more thorough; need for true analysis of parking needs and traffic flow; need for public input and a projection as to how the theatre complex and other businesses downtown will coexist profitably. Concern with the area possibly catering only to a young clientele was also expressed as well as concerns about traffic, communication with the public, both property owners and tenants, and final cost of project. City Attorney Schricker explained in response to previous knowledge of concerns with item 6a, a modified version of the agreement is provided. SPECIAL REDEVELOPMENT MINUTES BOOK NO. 2 MAY 17, 1999 AGENCY MEETING PAGE 2 MINUTES Page No. 12