HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-03-19 City Commission Packet Materials - A4. Northeast URD FY20 Budget and Work Plan
Commission Memorandum REPORT TO: Honorable Mayor and City Commission FROM: David Fine, Urban Renewal Program Manager SUBJECT: Northeast Urban Renewal District Fiscal Year 2020 Budget and Work Plan
MEETING DATE: June 3, 2019
AGENDA ITEM TYPE: Action RECOMMENDATION: Listen to the presentation, ask questions, and provide guidance to Staff. BACKGROUND: On May 7, 2019, the Northeast Urban Renewal Board (NURB) unanimously approved the attached FY 2020 Work Plan and Budget. The total value of appropriations in the NURB budget request for FY 2020 is $460,400. The NURB proposes a Work Plan and Budget for approval by the City Commission for inclusion in the City budget on an annual basis. The NURB spent heavily this year to complete street reconstruction projects on Peach St. and Tamarack St. The FY 2020 budget request includes the expenditure of reserves to complete these projects. At the end of FY 2020, the District will be in a maintenance mode, but for the addition of significant new increases in taxable from the proposed Cottonwood and Ida Project or other potential projects. The District will largely make payments on its debt service and as reserves build, the Board may be able to do small projects. This work plan and budget plans for the administrative workload associated with the Cottonwood and Ida project, as well as the increased capacity of the District to do projects if that project is completed. Without new revenue, the District’s work is largely complete, despite significant conditions of blight remaining to be addressed. The Staff will prepare and submit an annual report to the City Commission. This annual report will explore projects completed in the past year and explain how these projects conform with the Northeast Urban Renewal District Plan. The annual report will be presented to the City Commission in September 2020.
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FISCAL EFFECTS: The Northeast Urban Renewal District will receive $139,500 in projected tax increment revenue and $900 in projected interest revenue. The $460,400 in proposed expenditures would be funded by this revenue, in addition to $320,000 of unallocated reserves. The NURB insisted on budgeting $7,500 for a Quiet Zone Feasibility Study and $69,750 for a Pedestrian Bridge on East Aspen St., to signal their importance to the Board and to “set aside” funds for their eventual completion, despite the inadequacy of funding to complete these projects during FY 2020. UNRESOLVED ISSUES: None at this time. ATTACHMENTS: Norhteast Urban Renewal District Fiscal Year 2020 Work Plan and Budget NURB Projects May 7, 2018, NURB meeting minutes.
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2020 1
NORTHEAST URBAN RENEWAL BOARD BUDGET FY 2020 PROPOSAL
TO THE BOZEMAN CITY COMMISSION
NORTHEAST URBAN RENEWAL PROJECTS
INFRASTRUCTURE
Poor pedestrian connectivity within the District is well documented. Lack of street improvements
including missing curb, gutter, pavement and sidewalks creates an unwelcoming and potentially
unsafe environment for pedestrians and bicyclists. A lack of stormwater drainage facilities leads to the
ponding of water in public rights-of-way, encouraging pedestrians to walk in the street and
emphasizing the need for street improvements. The District has a historic mix of light manufacturing
and residential uses creating a more urban environment on the streets, especially during business
hours. Modest improvements to pedestrian facilities to create safer more welcoming routes for
pedestrians will reduce conflict between users. The lack of street delineation/improvements and
stormwater facilities has caused an unknown number of individuals to use some sections of the
District as dumping grounds for unwanted appliances and furniture. Street improvements coupled
with improvements to trails and parks and the landscaping of public spaces will improve conditions
for pedestrians and bicyclists and reduce, if not eliminate, dumping in the public right-of-way.
Making improvements to sidewalks on unimproved streets comes with some difficulty especially if
elevation differences are present across the width of the right-of-way and if a need to improve
stormwater drainage is warranted as well. What seems like a rather simple project turns into a large
scale street improvement project. Without additional information, moving forward on these
improvements is difficult, so survey and design is the first step. Regarding design, the Board
recognizes that creative solutions are needed to enhance the public right-of-way for two very different
user types in the District. In support of improvements to these streets, the Board has allocated a
portion of the budget to the following deficient street sections in the District:
East Peach Street $ 40,000
These improvements have been completed, and a final walk to finalize the project done. There is a
potential that the final payment for this project, including retention, will be made in Fiscal Year 2018-
2019; however, monies are being included in this budget to cover any potential outstanding costs.
East Tamarack Street $ 95,000
Reconstruction of East Tamarack Street has been completed except for final walk through and punch
list items. The remaining work items may be completed and paid for prior to the end of Fiscal Year
2018-2019; however, monies are included in this budget to cover any costs that may be incurred
beyond June 30, 2019.
Quiet Zone Feasibility Study $ 7 ,500
The quiet zone feasibility study continues to be an important issue to the Board. It has recognized
that it can fund only one-third of the estimated $21,700 cost of the study, which includes the three
railroad crossings at North Wallace Avenue, North Rouse Avenue and Griffin Drive. This project is
now being closely monitored by a small group under the umbrella of the NorthEast Neighborhood
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2020 2
Association. These monies are being budgeted to cover the costs of the study for the North Wallace
Avenue crossing in the event that monies are raised to cover the costs of the study for the other
crossings in the immediate area.
Pedestrian Bridge/East Aspen Street right-of-way between North
Rouse Avenue and Bozeman Creek $ 69,750
The City has determined that if the pedestrian bridge is constructed, pedestrian facilities along East
Aspen Street will be required; however, complete reconstruction of the street will not be.
Board members previously identified the need for a pedestrian bridge at the terminus of East Aspen
Street and the North Church Avenue trail east of North Rouse Avenue. East Aspen Street comes to an
end at Bozeman Creek; and the use along this section is largely residential with a retail store (retail)
at the southeast corner of North Rouse Avenue and East Aspen Street and a bakery further south along
North Rouse Avenue. During FY11, the NURB received positive feedback from the NorthEast
Neighborhood Association (NENA) on the project and Gaston Engineering completed a feasibility
study and cost estimate; KLJ Engineering has updated those cost estimates.
Infrastructure Total $ 212,250
Rationale: The infrastructure improvements meet Guiding Principle 1 and Goals A & B under
Principle 1 of the adopted Northeast Urban Renewal District Plan:
• Guiding Principle, “Ensure the health, safety, and security of the District”
• Goal A, “Outdated or insufficient infrastructure should be repaired, replaced or otherwise
improved.”
• Goal B, “Encourage a land use pattern that facilitates all modes of transportation –
vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian, mass transit, and commercial – for safe, efficient and
convenient access for residential, commercial, and industrial uses.”
The spending of TIF funds on infrastructure improvements is allowed under Section 7-15-4288, MCA
which states, “Costs that may be paid by tax increment financing” allows the municipality to use tax
increments to pay the following costs of or incurred in connection with an urban renewal project: (1)
land acquisition; (2) demolition and removal of structures; (3) relocation of occupants; (4) the
acquisition, construction, and improvement of infrastructure…that includes streets, roads, curbs,
gutters, sidewalks, pedestrian malls, alleys, parking lots and offstreet parking facilities, sewers, sewer
lines, sewage treatment facilities, storm sewers, waterlines, …; and 5) costs incurred in connection
with the redevelopment activities allowed under 7-15-4233;…
PARKS, TRAILS AND GREENSPACE
District Trails and Depot Pocket Park Area Maintenance $ 3,000
The original trail, landscaping and bench installation were completed in 2012. Landscaping
maintenance, including mowing and weed spraying, is on-going. Water is provided, as needed, from
an adjacent property. The Board proposes continuing the operation of the temporary irrigation system,
weed control and general maintenance. Weed control and general maintenance may also be needed in
other District trail areas.
Parks/Trails Total $ 3,000
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2020 3
Rationale: The park, trail and greenspace improvements meet Guiding Principle 4 and Goals A & B
under Principle 4 of the adopted Northeast Urban Renewal District Plan:
• Guiding Principle, “Public open space is essential to a healthy and appealing
urban environment”
• Goal A, “Procure new land for parks and public open space”
• Goal B, “Improve landscaping in existing public spaces.”- to include enhancing boulevards
and public rights-of-way by planting and maintaining trees where appropriate and controlling
weeds
The spending of TIF funds on park and open space improvements is allowed under 7-15-4255,
Authority to provide or contract for services related to urban renewal, of the Montana Code
Annotated. Specifically, item (1b) states that “Every municipality shall have power to install,
construct, and reconstruct streets, utilities, parks, playgrounds, and other public improvements”
ADMINISTRATION
Part-time staff $ 3,000
The Board retains part-time staff to prepare minutes, provide financial status reports on a regular
basis and draft the work plan and budget for consideration.
Administrative Services $ 23,250
The Board needs staff to assist with District Plan implementation. $23,250 is to be transferred to the
Economic Development Division to offset the cost of staff time used to assist the NURB with District
Plan implementation.
The spending of TIF funds for administrative purposes is a permissible use under state statute 7-15-
4288, (5), “costs incurred in connection with the redevelopment activities allowed under 7-15-4233
and 7-15-4288 (7) “administrative costs associated with the managements of the urban renewal
area…” This money is also a permissible use under state statute 7-15-4233, “Powers which may be
exercised by urban renewal agency or authorized department…(f) to disseminate blight clearance and
urban renewal information;”
Bond payment $ 93,000
The bonds have been sold and the proceeds are being received in two installments. Per the
amortization schedule, the annual bond payments are just under $93,000.
Designated bond reserve $ 120,900
TIF bonds are required to have 130 percent of the projected annual payment held in reserve. Based
on the budgeted amount for the annual payments, $120,900 will be needed annually to fund the bond
reserve.
Professional Services $ 5,000
While no specific professional services have been identified at this time, monies are being budgeted
to cover the costs of potential requests during the budget year. In light of the fact that staff went
through the request for proposals process and awarded a contract to a professional team to serve all
tax increment financing districts within the city, each district will cover the costs of those services as
used.
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2020 4
SUMMARY: FY 20 PROPOSED BUDGET URBAN RENEWAL PROJECTS
Infrastructure $ 212,250
Parks/Trails $ 3,000
Staff Time $ 23,250
Noticing and Administrative Services $ 3,000
Consultant Costs $ 5,000
Bond Payment $ 93,000
Designated Bond Reserve $ 120,900
Undesignated Reserve $
Overall Budget Total $ 460,400
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
On November 28, 2005, the Bozeman City Commission finally adopted Ordinance No. 1655 which
formally enacted the Northeast Urban Renewal Plan and became effective December 28, 2005. The stated
mission of the plan and general goals are as follows:
DISTRICT PLAN MISSION/VISION
“This Plan is the City’s response to remedy the conditions of blight found in the August 2005 [Blight]
Report. The Plan also addresses other issues important to the District. The Plan’s purpose is to ensure the
vitality of the Northeast Urban Renewal District (NURD) the vitality of the NURD for generations to come,
and to make the NURD an area in which its citizens can take exceptional pride. The Plan envisions a mixed
use neighborhood that is user friendly, safe, secure and healthy. While this Plan envisions a District with
diversity of housing businesses and amenities, it intends to maintain the unique ambiance and historic
character of the District”.
Nine principles were developed for the plan. Each of the principles has one or more goals associated with
the plan, some of which specifically relate to this work plan while others represent general objectives and
directives. The Northeast Urban Renewal Board (NURB) goals are as follows:
GENERAL GOALS:
▪ Outdated or insufficient infrastructure should be repaired, replaced, or otherwise improved.
▪ Provide public utilities to the area efficiently in ways that are not visually or physically
obtrusive.
▪ Encourage a land use pattern that facilitates all modes of transportation – vehicular, bicycle,
pedestrian, mass transit, and commercial – for safe, efficient and convenient access for
residential, commercial, and industrial uses.
▪ Harmonize commercial and industrial development with residential quality of life.
▪ New structures should be designed and built keeping in mind the public values of durability,
flexibility, and simplicity. Thoughtful consideration of design, materials, and massing in
the construction of new private buildings will add strength and character to the built
environment. To the degree that the private sector can be influenced by a public partner in
development, the community ought to strongly encourage excellence in urban design as a
basis of partnership.
▪ Promote sustainable building practices and design within the district.
▪ Procure new land for park and open space.
▪ Improve landscaping in existing public spaces.
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2020 5
▪ Neither the City of Bozeman nor any of its subdivisions shall use eminent domain to take
private property for private use in the implementation of an urban renewal project or similar
redevelopment plan.
▪ Encourage the City to help ensure the success of the Northeast Urban Renewal Plan by
giving a high priority to the Northeast District in its capital improvements plan.
▪ Work with neighborhoods and businesses to ensure actions taken in the district are
compatible with adjacent developed areas.
▪ Work with the City to ensure actions taken outside of the District are compatible with
projects inside of the District.
BACKGROUND
In 2010, the Northeast Urban Renewal Board began implementing plans and projects reflecting their
three funding priorities: 1) Parks, Trails and Greenspace; 2) Infrastructure and 3) Neighborhood
Development Plan.
A BRIEF LOOK BACK
In 2018 the City of Bozeman adopted its first strategic plan. One of the primary planks in the
platform is “An Innovative Economy”.
“In an Innovative Economy [w]e grow a diversified and innovative economy leveraging our natural
amenities, skilled and creative people, and educational resources to generate economic
opportunities. Primarily, an innovative economy supports:
2.1 Business Growth - Support retention and growth of both the traded and local business sectors
while welcoming and encouraging new and existing businesses, in coordination with the Economic
Development Plan.
2.2 Infrastructure Investments - Strategically invest in infrastructure as a mechanism to encourage
economic development. a) Identify Commercial/Industrial Infrastructure Needs. Identify sites for
new or redevelopment in areas that lack adequate infrastructure and develop new financing
strategies to fund these investments.
2.3 Workforce Development - Support education and workforce development initiatives to improve
the skills of our citizens.”
Below are projects that this district has funded in years past that meet Section 2.2 of the strategic
plan.
In FY 2016, the City Commission created a special improvement district for street improvements to
North Wallace Avenue from East Lamme Street to L Street. This district contributed $25,000 toward the
engineering and design of those street improvements and, once the improvements were completed, paid
the $91,189 that would have been assessed property owners within the tax increment financing district
for those improvements.
At the end of FY 2017, the City Commission took the steps necessary to authorize issuance of tax
increment financing bonds in the total amount of $1,446,000 to cover the costs of infrastructure
improvements within the district. Those improvements included, in priority order, (1) East Tamarack
Street, (2) East Peach Street, (3) North Ida Avenue, (4) Front Street and (5) pedestrian bridge/East
Aspen Street.
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2020 6
At the very beginning of FY 2018, the first “half” of the bond proceeds, in the amount of $851,048, was
received. A majority of those proceeds were expended on engineering services for East Peach Street
reconstruction, East Tamarack Street improvements and the pedestrian bridge, and for the reconstruction
of East Peach Street. The East Peach Street improvements included installation of a stormwater system,
stabilization of the street base, replacement of curb, gutter and sidewalks and paving the roadway from
Avocado Street to just west of the bridge. Replacement of segments of the water main and the sewer
main was also included in the project; and those costs were borne by the utility funds.
The Regional/Urban Design Team (RUDAT) report was completed and the report issued in FY 2018.
This Board voiced general support for the report, but ultimately determined its primary focus would
remain on infrastructure improvements and ensuring that any proposed development complies with and
furthers the goals of the urban renewal plan. A small group now operating under the NorthEast
Neighborhood Association will continue to look at options and events to generate interest in the
northeast area and to monitor any proposals for this area, to ensure that the existing character of this
community is preserved and that the findings and recommendations of the RUDAT report are being
considered.
In February 2018, the Board adopted Resolution 2018-01, supporting the Cottonwood & Ida Planned
Unit Development concept and indicating it may be willing to consider issuance of tax increment
financing bonds at some time in the future to reimburse costs incurred for improvements to public
infrastructure.
FY 2019 AT-A-GLANCE
The East Tamarack Street improvement project was delayed until this fiscal year to coordinate with the
Front Street interceptor sewer project, which will be funded by the sewer utility fund. The street
improvements covered by the urban renewal district included installation of a stormwater system,
stabilization of the street base, curb, gutter and sidewalks and paving the roadway from Front Street to
just west of the bridge and the installation of conduit for the future extension of fiber along the roadway
to serve this portion of the community. This conduit is a part of the open platform fiber optic network
within the community.
The Board has identified the benefits that a quiet zone could have for not only this district but for the
community as a whole. As a result, it has committed one-third of the estimated $21,700 cost of a
feasibility study that addresses the three railroad crossings, at North Wallace Avenue, North Rouse
Avenue and Griffin Drive. A small group working under the NorthEast Neighborhood Association is
trying to generate enough community interest to fund the other two-thirds of the study costs since only
one of the crossings lies at the outside edge of this district.
The Board continued to demonstrate its commitment to preserving the District’s historic character by
monitoring any proposals that might impact historic properties. The Board is vigilant in monitoring new
proposed development within the District, to ensure its compatibility with the historic mixed use
character of the area.
On March 5, 2019, the Board adopted Resolution No. 2019-01, which recommended that the
Commission designate the Cottonwood & Ida project as an urban renewal project and authorize the
issuance of tax increment financing bonds to fund public infrastructure costs associated with the project
after the project has been completed and its taxable value established by the Department of Revenue to
ensure adequate tax revenues are generated to service the bonds issued.
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2020 7
As proposed, the Cottonwood & Ida project is the major infill development within this urban renewal
district to seek Board support since its inception. It meets many of the guiding principles and goals of
the urban renewal plan through its high density mixed use planned unit development by providing a mix
of housing types and commercial spaces. The development as proposed also maintains the eclectic
ambiance of the area through the varied elevations and materials used as well as the small makers spaces
that are designed to encourage the creativity of residents in the immediate area as well as the
community. Once constructed, it is anticipated this development will increase the tax increment that this
Board can use to further its visions for this district.
MOVING FORWARD – FY 2020
With all of the street improvements that have been made, as enumerated above, safety and circulation
have been enhanced. The streets now have a new stormwater system and stable sub-bases, and
sidewalks have been added to ensure pedestrian safety. Also, the installation of curb and gutter, or the
replacement of crumbling curb and gutter, has provided a safer space for bicyclists, and the sharrows
painted on the asphalt serve to remind drivers that bicyclists are sharing the road. This work has been
completed through the use of tax increment financing monies collected over the years as well as the
issuance of the maximum amount of bonds that the current level of revenues through tax increment
financing will generate.
The Board continues to support opportunities to work with Montana Rail Link and Burlington Northern
Santa Fe on preservation and rehabilitation projects for the passenger depot. It has also expressed
interest in working with the railroad to, as good neighbors, take necessary steps to help preserve and
potentially, down the road, participate in any rehabilitation of the depot structure. The Board has
recently been made aware of a local developer’s progress in working with the railroads to rehabilitate the
depot and make it a functioning structure in the district, thus meeting one of the district’s long time
goals.
The Board is also sympathetic to viewpoints related to rehabilitation of wetlands (NorthEast Area
Wetlands) that have been expressed by both citizenry and individual board members. The subject
wetlands lie several blocks east to southeast of the district, and discussion has included the possibility of
a trail connection around those wetlands and along the railroad tracks to connect to the existing rail
system. Since this project lies outside the boundaries of the district, this is a project that may be
monitored by the Board but is to be furthered by a separate committee.
In light of the fact that bonds were issued for the top priority street reconstruction projects, this budget
and work plan focuses mainly on completion of these those top priorities, bond coverage and repayment
requirements, and administrative needs. Furthermore, the Board has pledged to designate future annual
tax increment revenues to repay the bonds authorized by the Bozeman City Commission. As a result of
those commitments, this budget contains few projects or expenditures beyond those enumerated above
as the Board awaits the collection of additional tax increment monies to pursue additional projects.
BEYOND FY2020
Street lighting plan. The Board previously had an inventory completed for all street lights within the
district, including their ownerships, and found a wide range of ownerships. Also, a conversation with
NorthWestern Energy representatives revealed that the two light fixtures they provide were
unacceptable and they were not interested in considering the LED fixtures that the Board was
interested in. Since the Deputy Mayor has now voiced an interest in identifying the best way to
upgrade existing street light fixtures, the Board is interested in being included in that process.
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2020 8
Shuttle Service. The Deputy Mayor has identified parking as a community wide issue and, as a
result, has proposed looking at a shuttle service that will serve the core area of the community,
providing a loop service with short wait times. The Board has discussed the possibility of including
North Wallace Avenue in that loop and the construction of covered bus stops within the district if tax
increment financing funds are available.
Cottonwood & Ida project. It is anticipated that the Cottonwood & Ida project, which is within the
Northeast Urban Renewal District, will be undertaken in Fiscal Year 2020. That project includes
installation of off-site infrastructure improvements along East Cottonwood Street, East Aspen Street
and North Ida Avenue for which it is anticipated reimbursement through tax increment financing
monies will be sought. It is recognized that this project will not be completed until at least Fiscal
Year 2021; however, it is important to recognize that it will significantly impact future budgets and
work plans once it is completed.
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Revenues:2019-20 Budget TIF Bonds
Estimated Beginning Balance $320,000.00 $320,000.00 $0.00
FY2020 Tax Increment $139,500.00 $139,500.00
Delinquent Increment
State Shared/Entitlement
Interest $900.00 $900.00
Total Estimated Revenues $460,400.00 $460,400.00 $0.00
Expenditures Budgeted:
Maintenance
Trails Maintenance $3,000.00 $3,000.00
Subtotal - Maintenance $3,000.00 $3,000.00
Infrastructure
East Tamarack Street $95,000.00 $95,000.00
East Peach Street $40,000.00 $40,000.00
Pedestrian Bridge/East Aspen Street $69,750.00 $69,750.00
Quiet Zone Feasibility Study $7,500.00 $7,500.00
Subtotal - Infrastructure $212,250.00 $212,250.00
Administration
Staff Support $23,250.00 $23,250.00
Administrative Services $3,000.00 $3,000.00
Bond Repayment $93,000.00 $93,000.00
Professional Services $5,000.00 $5,000.00
Subtotal Administration $124,250.00 $124,250.00
Reserves
Designated Bond Reserve $120,900.00 $120,900.00
Undesignated Reserve
Subtotal Reserves $120,900.00 $120,900.00
Total Expenditures $460,400.00 $460,400.00 $0.00
Northeast Urban Renewal District
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FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19
Depot Park x x x
Depot Trail Area x x x
Trails/Depot Park maintenance x x x x x x x
Front Street Shared Use Path x
Aspen Street ROW open space x x x
N Church Ave trail improvements x x x
N Church Avenue sidewalks x
E Peach Street sidewalks x x
E Peach sidewalks/stormwater/landscaping & N
Ida Ave as shared use connector x
E Peach sidewalks/stormwater/landscaping x x x x x x x
Neighborhood visioning document x x x
E Aspen ROW survey (Rouse/creek)x x
Aspen Street pedestrian bridge x x x x x x
Pedestrian bridge/E Aspen x x x
E Tamarack Street x x x x
E Tamarack/Front/Ida design/improvements x x x x
Intersection Front/Ida/Aspen x
Front Street/E Aspen Street x
North Ida Avenue x x
North Ida/Front Street x
Preserve America Grant Match x x x
Redevelopment Incentive Program x x x x x
Streambank Restoration x x x
Depot Stabilization Project x x
Depot Rehabilitation Project x x x x
Entranceway Enhancements x x
Street lighting study x x
Front Street trail extension x
RUDAT x
North Wallace Avenue x x
Pedestrian RR Crossing x
Quiet Zone Feasibility Study x x
Public Arts program x
Projects in NURB work plans
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NURB Meeting – April 30, 2019 1
Northeast Urban Renewal Board (NURB)
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 30, 2019
The Northeast Urban Renewal Board met in regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30,
2019, in the Conference Room, Professional Building, 20 East Olive Street, Bozeman, Montana.
Present: Absent:
Voting Members:
Robert Pavlic, Chair
Bobbi Clem
Dan Doehring
John Usher (arrived at 6:33 p.m.)
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese
Non-Voting Members:
Ethan Barlow Dalton Brink
Nolan Campbell
Corwin Dormire
Commissioner Liaison:
I-Ho Pomeroy
Staff:
Brit Fontenot, Economic Development Director
David Fine, TIF Specialist
Anna Rosenberry, Assistant City Manager
Robin Sullivan, Recording Secretary
Guests:
Chris Nixon, 719 North Wallace Avenue
Call to Order – Chair Bob Pavlic called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Changes to the Agenda – No changes were made to the agenda.
Public Comment – No comment was received under this agenda item.
Minutes – April 2, 2019. It was moved by Dan Doehring, seconded by Jeanne Wesley-Wiese,
that the minutes of the regular meeting of April 2, 2019 be approved as submitted. The motion
carried on a 4-0 vote.
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Discussion/Action Items – Staff updates on items of interest to the Board. David Fine announced that, at their
April 22 meeting, the City Commission unanimously approved the Cottonwood & Ida project as
an urban renewal project and the associated development agreement.
Update on financial status of NURB fund. Robin Sullivan distributed copies of the
FY2019 revenues and expenditures to date as well as the revenues and expenditures from
inception to date. She briefly reviewed the information in those spreadsheets, noting that there
were few expenses this past month. She then noted that she has also distributed a
spreadsheet that shows all of the projects included in past work plans and has highlighted those
projects that have been completed to date.
Responding to questions from Bobbi Clem, Bob Pavlic stated the railroad has decided it will not
rent the old Treasure State Oil building and will not immediately open offices in the old depot;
rather, they will bring in a caboose to serve as an office. He noted that at this time, the railroad
plans to keep the depot and whether it remains in its current location or is jacked up and moved
is their decision. He confirmed that it will take about $260,000 to make the building rentable
because it needs plumbing, heating, lighting and electrical work.
Discussion regarding items to be included in work plan and budget for Fiscal Year 2019-2020. Robin Sullivan distributed copies of the draft work plan and budget for Fiscal Year
2019-2020 as revised to reflect discussions at the last meeting. She noted that the work plan
and budget include monies for any outstanding bills for the East Peach Street and East
Tamarack Street projects. If all of the bills are paid by the end of this fiscal year, the balance
carried forward will be lower than currently projected, but the monies budgeted for those two
projects will have been expended.
David Fine noted that the budget reflects the priorities and decisions made at the last Board
meeting. He stated, however, that every year, City staff reviews the costs of staffing the urban
renewal boards. At this time, this district is funding a small portion of one person’s time, and it
has been determined the amount paid is inadequate. Based on discussions, staff has
determined that an additional person is needed in the Economic Development Department, with
the costs to be funded by the tax increment financing districts and parking.
Anna Rosenberry stated that, when considering the Department’s request, administration
identified possibilities for funding. She noted that one of those is the General Fund, which has
supported activities of tax increment financing districts for several years. She stressed that
various staff members provide support for those districts, including people from the Finance
Department, the legal department, the Clerk’s office, City administration and the Commission, in
addition to the staffing that the Board sees. She stated that there are not monies in the General
Fund to pay the salary of the additional person that the Economic Development Department has
requested, so they have developed a creative solution to cover the costs. That solution includes
contributions from the Northeast Urban Renewal District, the Midtown Urban Renewal District,
the Downtown Urban Renewal District and the Parking Fund because staff is seeing a lot of
parking concerns in the tax increment financing districts.
Brit Fontenot reminded the Board that both parking and the neighborhood program have been
placed under Economic Development, and they have found several overlapping circles in
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NURB Meeting – April 30, 2019 3
concerns and workload. He then stated that staff is proposing 50 percent of the costs of the
additional person be paid by the Parking Fund and that the remaining 50 percent be spread
among the three identified tax increment financing districts with this district paying 10 percent
and Midtown and Downtown each paying 20 percent.
David Fine stated the estimated additional cost is $9,235. He then indicated that staff will be
asking both the Midtown Urban Renewal District and the Downtown Urban Renewal District for
$22,000.
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese stated she does not dispute staff’s contributions and support to this
Board; however, she does not feel this Board should pay for the planning work that staff may do
to forward a project.
Bob Pavlic noted that this Board is currently being charged $14,000 for staff support. He
stressed that this area is a “little dead end road” and does not have much going on. He then
questioned how much City staff support this Board needs. He observed that, if the Cottonwood
& Ida project moves forward, it will be at least two years before this district starts receiving any
revenue; in the meantime, it has no monies.
Responding to Jeanne Wesley-Wiese, David Fine stated the development agreement for the
Cottonwood & Ida project identifies various issues that must be addressed to ensure the project
meets all requirements for reimbursement of public infrastructure improvement costs and impact
fees. Those include ensuring that public procurement requirements are met when bidding for
the work and reviewing invoices to ensure they are appropriate.
David Fine reminded the Board that tax increment financing districts are designed to spur
redevelopment and to increase the taxable value in the district while diverting the tax revenues
from the city, county and school district to the district for a certain number of years. He stated it
is important to consider the benefits to not only the district but the community as a whole.
Brit Fontenot stated that staff does a lot of work outside of these Board meetings, including
talking to other staff members and outside consultants. He noted that the projects this Board
has approved to date have made this area fertile for reinvestment.
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese acknowledged that the projects completed to date could not have been
done without staff’s help; however, she does not want this district to fund the work that staff is
doing for a developer.
Dan Doehring asked if there is a sunset on this request for increased staff funding; David Fine
responded there is no proposed sunset. He then stated that this Board makes a
recommendation to the Commission; and the Commission will budget the amount it finds
appropriate based on City administration recommendations.
Responding to John Usher, Brit Fontenot confirmed that the proposal is to hire a third person in
the Economic Development Department. That person will work with the various tax increment
financing districts and with parking. He noted that having a third person in the department will
allow staff to provide better services.
Nolan Campbell asked if any of the other boards face the liquidity problems that this Board
does.
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David Fine responded that the South Bozeman Technology Urban Renewal District and the
North Park Farm Urban Renewal District have no monies because there has been no activity in
them. He confirmed that neither the Midtown Urban Renewal District nor the Downtown
Bozeman Urban Renewal District faces liquidity issues.
Nolan Campbell suggested that, since this district has a cash problem, 5 percent of the new
position be funded from this district at this time and increased to 10 percent once the
Cottonwood & Ida project is complete and additional tax revenues generated.
Brit Fontenot stated that once development generates tax increment revenues for the two
districts that have no current activity, the formula for funding of the new position will be
recalculated.
Responding to questions from John Usher, staff indicated that this is the first district they have
approached with this proposal for funding of a new position. They will talk to the other two
districts at their upcoming meetings and expect approval from both boards.
Anna Rosenberry stated this is a reappraisal year. She noted that the City will receive taxable
values the first week of August, and those values will reflect the reappraisals.
Following a discussion about where to find monies to fund the additional request for staffing, the
Board determined that the $1,000 budgeted for the depot rehabilitation and the $7,500 for the
quiet zone study should be removed and that the remainder of the monies be taken from the
pedestrian bridge.
Ethan Barlow asked the Board to consider minimizing the damage of reallocating monies rather
than defunding projects that have a potential of occurring during the upcoming fiscal year. He
also questioned the need for earmarking monies for a project that will not occur this year
because it is not adequately funded, stressing that he is speaking in generic terms and not
addressing a specific project. He asked that the Board give this issue consideration, both now
and in future budget discussions if monies need to be reallocated to cover unanticipated costs.
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese responded that the pedestrian bridge project started nearly fifteen years
ago with a $10,000 budgeted amount and monies being added whenever possible to reach the
current $82,000 level. She then stated that the $82,000 was adequate to fund the bridge
construction; however, the City’s Engineering staff also required the installation of sidewalks
along one side of East Aspen Street between the creek and North Rouse Avenue and that
raised the cost of the project by $11,000.
John Usher suggested that the monies needed to fund the district’s portion of the staff position
be taken from the bridge funding but that it remain approved and be fully funded after the
Cottonwood & Ida project is completed and the tax increment generated.
Brit Fontenot reminded the Board that the estimated cost of $82,000 for the bridge is two years
old; and he does not expect the $82,000 will fund it now.
Responding to additional comments from Ethan Barlow, Jeanne Wesley-Wiese stated that the
pedestrian bridge has had the most community support of any of the projects this Board has
identified and funded.
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NURB Meeting – April 30, 2019 5
It was moved by John Usher, seconded by Dan Doehring, that the $1,000 for depot
rehabilitation be deleted from the work plan and budget. The motion carried on a 4-1 vote;
Bobbi Clem voted No.
It was moved by John Usher, seconded by Bobbi Clem, that the $7,500 for the quiet zone study
be retained in the work plan and budget. The motion carried on a 3-2 vote; Jeanne Wesley-
Wiese and Bob Pavlic voted No.
It was moved by Bobbi Clem, seconded by Dan Doehring, that the monies budgeted for the
pedestrian bridge/East Aspen Street be decreased by $12,250 to fund the requested increase in
administrative support. The motion carried on a 5-0 vote.
It was moved by John Usher, seconded by Dan Doehring, that the monies budgeted for
administrative support be increased by $13,250 as requested by staff. The motion carried on a
5-0 vote.
It was moved by Jeanne Wesley-Wiese, seconded by John Usher, that the Board adopt the
work plan and budget for Fiscal Year 2019-2020 as revised by the previous motions. The
motion carried on a 5-0 vote.
Set agenda for June 4, 2019 meeting or cancel meeting. Since there are currently
no pressing agenda items, the Board cancelled its June 4 and July 2 meetings. The next
regularly scheduled meeting will be held on August 6.
FYI/Discussion. There was no discussion under this agenda item.
Adjournment – 8:00 p.m. There being no further business to come before the Board at this
time, Chair Pavlic adjourned the meeting.
Bob Pavlic, Chair
Northeast Urban Renewal Board
City of Bozeman
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