Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting

Westside Corridor Improvement Authority 415 Leonard Street NW Minutes Packet Grand Rapids, MI 49504 June 3, 2022 @ 9:00 AM 415 Leonard Street NW PRESENT: Dan Grinwis, Brent Gibson, Dave Shaffer, Lisa Haynes, Commissioner Jon O’Connor, Aaron Jenks ABSENT: Johnny Brann OTHERS: Verah Narh-Kamara, Brad Veneklase (644 Bridge LLC), Jeff Royce (Victory Development Group), Bill Knapp (Stellar), John Schultz (John Ball Neighbors), Monica (Bridge St. Market), Ken Miguel-Cipriano I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 9:01 AM by Chair Dave Shaffer II. Public Comment on Agenda Items None. III. Minutes Approval Approval of Minutes from May 6, 2022 No questions or comments were noted. Motion to approve minutes from May 6, 2022. RESULT: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Daniel Grinwis, Member SECONDER: Lisa Haynes, Vice-Chair YEAS: Grinwis, Gibson, Shaffer, Haynes, O’Connor, Jenks ABSENT: Johnny Brann IV. Action Items 1. Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Adoption Verah Narh-Kamara presented the budget. No questions or comments were noted. Motion to adopt the fiscal year 2023 budget. Generated 6/16/2022 09:28 AM Westside Corridor Improvement Authority Meeting Full Page 2 June 3, 2022 RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Jon O’Connor, Member SECONDER: Lisa Haynes, Vice-Chair YEAS: Grinwis, Gibson, Shaffer, Haynes, O’Connor, Jenks ABSENT: Johnny Brann 2. Business Improvement Program Applications Bradley Veneklase with 644 Bridge LLC provided details on his project. He noted that the project also needs ADA accessibility, but he has not been successful in getting any waivers for that portion of the project. Brent Gibson had questions about the three separate applications and how it applies to the 644 Bridge project. Ms. Kamara explained that the Westside has that option in their guidelines for developers to apply for up to $30,000 with separate applications. Mr. Gibson noted most of the electrical work presented in the quote seems to be inside the building and he is concerned about setting any kind of precedence for future applicants regarding the scope of the façade grant. Dave Shaffer added that the vision for the board has always been investing in development opportunities in the district and that is what influenced the decision to provide more funds for developments. Commissioner Jon O'Connor noted that the board is focused on facades of buildings and exterior enhancements but is also flexible in some cases. Lisa Haynes wondered how the facade grant opportunity is communicated to developers. Mr. Shaffer reminded the board that the grant was created for facades, and it is crucial to stay within those parameters. Commissioner O'Connor agreed the lighting package quote is unclear and acknowledged the importance of staying within the facade guidelines. Mr. Veneklase explained part of the lighting is for signage outside the building. The Commissioner suggested the board makes a motion to approve two out of the three applications and a contingent approval for the lighting package based on updated electrical quotes from the applicant. Commissioner O'Connor and the board would like to explore the possibility of adding ADA improvements to the list of facade projects for the Westside CIA. Jeff Royce with the Victory on Leonard team presented their project and informed the board the project is officially off the ground. Commissioner O'Connor commended Jeff and the Victory on Leonard team on the project and the attention to the pedestrian safety needs at the construction site. Motion to approve Victory Development Group grant application and two out of the three applications for 644 Bridge LLC, with a contingent approval of the lighting package per submission of updated quotes on electricals. Generated 6/16/2022 09:28 AM Westside Corridor Improvement Authority Meeting Full Page 3 June 3, 2022 RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Jon O’Connor, Member SECONDER: Lisa Haynes, Vice-Chair YEAS: Grinwis, Gibson, Shaffer, Haynes, O’Connor, Jenks ABSENT: Johnny Brann V. Reports 1. Design Committee Dan Grinwis provided an update on the Banner repairs project with Vizcom. He followed the board’s recommendation and has requested a new quote for all the banners that need repairs. Mr. Shaffer noted that the Spring Landscaping project plan is delayed. The committee will meet and discuss further before the next meeting. Commissioner O'Connor expressed concerns about the Seward underpass for pedestrians and suggest some improvements in that area. VI. Other Business Mr. Shaffer mentioned the board may receive a new member from Rockford constructions. VII. Public Comment None. VIII. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 9:32 AM by Chair, Dave Shaffer. Generated 6/16/2022 09:28 AM