HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012 10-16 HCM MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE HOUSING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN AND STATE OF MINNESOTA
REGULAR SESSION
COUNCIL COMMISSION ROOM
OCTOBER 16, 2012
CALL TO ORDER
The Brooklyn Center Housing Commission was called to order by Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson
at 7:04 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Chairperson Kris Lawrence-Anderson, Kathie Amdahl, David Johnson, Judy Thorbus and Peggy
Lynn. Also present were Council Liaison Lin Myszkowski, Staff Liaison Jesse Anderson,Director
of Building and Community Standards/Assistant City Manager Vickie Schleuning,and Director of
Business and Development Gary Eitel. Chereen Norstrud and Ephraim Olani were not excused.
APPROVAL OFAGENDA
There was a motion by Commissioner Thorbus and seconded by Commissioner Amdahl to
approve the agenda as submitted. The motion passed.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES—MAY 15, 2012
There was a motion by Commissioner Amdahl and seconded by Commissioner Lynn to
approve the minutes of the Housing Commission meeting for May 15, 2012. The motion
passed.
CHAIRPERSONS REPORT
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson stated her appreciation for Commissioner Johnson in rejoining the
Housing Commission. She apologized for not meeting the deadline to recommend the Minnesota
School of Business for random acts of kindness so we will send a letter of application.
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson stated she attended Minnesota Interfaith Open Forum on the
separation of religion and state. She stated it was very interesting and there were Multiple
perspectives from different religions.
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson stated that Odyssey Academy is having a pancake
breakfast/wellness fair on October 27,2012 from 9 to 12. They will be using all natural ingredients
and the cost is one dollar. They will be inviting city council,staff,local businesses and organizations
to participate or attend.
COUNCIL LIAISONREPORT
Councilmember Myszkowski reviewed agendas and minutes and stated council is moving forward
with a baseline study regarding inclusion. She read an email from the City Manager which stated the
city has hired Inclusion, Inc. She stated Council had a discussion regarding the sign ordinance
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relating to advertising for businesses. The council discussed service deficiencies and decided to help
connect local businesses with resources to assist with their business. Council approved the
appointment of Commissioner Johnson. She added civil penalties were levied against Global
Kitchen and Sun Foods for selling to minors.
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson expressed interest in attending City Council meetings where new
commissioners are appointed.
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson has questions regarding sign issues.
Councilmember Myszkowski explained concerns from local business regarding signs. One issue
noted at the property was tree coverage and the number of signs in the window of the business. Mr.
Eitel pointed out deficiencies in the property to help with signage. This information could be
provided to assist local businesses.
Commissioner Amdahl asked if a property owner can have open non-flashing signs. Councilmember
Myszkowski stated she doesn't support flashing signs and that it is not allowed by code.
Commissioner Lynn asked if they could have an ID sign for the mall. Councilmember Myszkowski
stated they can and that they do have an ID sign located at the mall.
OTHER BUSINESS
Jesse Anderson provided an update on the foreclosures,vacant buildings,rental licensing,and NSP 3
program.
Commissioner Thorbus expressed interest in seeing the rental packet that is sent to landlords. Vickie
Schleuning provided a copy of the rental packet to all Commissioners.
Commissioner Johnson stated he is interested in who is a Type IV Rental License
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson stated that we are heading in the right direction with rentals and
provided recognition for Gateway Commons and Granite Peaks.
Jesse Anderson provided updates on upcoming meeting agendas and informed that a representative
from Aeon would be at the next Housing Commission Meeting. He also stated that a representative
from Maranatha has been invited to speak at a future meeting.
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson suggested that the Housing Commission invite the Minnesota
School of Business in December for a thank you and cookies. It was also discussed that the
Commission move to 2nd Tuesday for the December meeting.
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson requested that a draft thank you letter be prepared for the next
Housing Commission Meeting
Commissioner Lynn provided an update on the Community Garden project. Councilmember
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Myszkowski stated the Community Garden looks good with the new fence and doesn't believe it
should be painted.
Chairperson Lawrence-Anderson suggested the City proactively market the Community Garden next
year.
Commissioner Johnson stated he is happy with progress in the city and has issues to address relating
to rental properties within the city. He stated he wants the City Code enforced and he encourages
people to report code violations.
ADJOURNMENT
There was a motion by Commissioner Amdahl and seconded by Commissioner Thorbus to
adjourn the meeting. The motion passed. The Brooklyn Center Housing Commission adjourned
at 8:10 p.m.
airman
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