RDA Min 2002-11-04 - Laserfiche WebLink

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A. South Main Street Redevelopment Planning Area; Recommendation: _ 1. That the Agency Board by motion direct staff to negotiate an Owner Participation Agreement (OPA) with Ben Kopf for Phase I Area of South Main Street Redevelopment Planning Area; with the understanding that all costs associated with this process will be borne by Mr. Kopf; 2. That the Redevelopment Agency by motion postpones action in Phase II until staff brings a proposal for action in the area. Staff recommends that when the time comes to proceed with planning in Phase II, participation and discussion will occur with the owners and tenants in the area; Redevelopment Executive Director Church explained the background. Public Comment: Tom Ruby, representing the Beeger family who own two parcels on 1555 El Camino Real, asked that the Redevelopment Agency not authorize staff to negotiate an ownership participation agreement with Ben Kopf. He stated that the report reads as if this is the culmination of an open and public process, but that he and the Beeger family do not believe that it is. Mr. Ruby continued to give the chronology of events as it pertains to the Beeger family. He stated that an open and public process and the owner participation rules are important to ensure that decisions are well informed, but that the information provided tonight does not enable the Agency to do this. -- Jim Beeger requested that part one of the motion be voted down. He introduced himself in order to establish his credibility as a speaker. He then elaborated on why the City should reject the application for the first part of the motion. In conclusion, Mr. Beeger stated that they do not believe that proper and legal notification was given and that this is a two party transaction and dragging the City into this will not expedite the process. Ben Kopf stated he has a vision for the Redevelopment area as an automotive mall complex to benefit the City, the populous and himself as a businessperson. He stated the process has been going on for over a half year. He submitted his notice to participate listing qualifications of being a businessperson, real estate developer and an automotive entrepreneur. He stated the issues of negotiations took place two years ago, were done fairly but they were unable to agree on a final contract. Council questions and discussion ensued. M/S Ruskin/Ira to extend the meeting to 11:15 p.m. The motion passed by a unanimous voice vote. REGULAR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEETING NOVEMBER 4, 2002 MINUTES PAGE 3 MINUTES BOOK NO. 2 Page No. 115