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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-03-27 Business and Economic Development Committee Minutes BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING DURING CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP Tuesday, March 27, 2023 @ 5:15 PM City Council Chambers MEETING MINUTES City Councilors Present: Fournier, Hawes, Schaefer, Tremble, Yacoubagha. City Staff Present: Krieg. Councilor Fournier called the meeting to order at 5:15 P.M. 1. 22 CLEVELAND STREET — PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE HOUSING PROJECT — REQUEST FROM PENQUIS FOR GAP FINANCING, Action requested to approve used of CDBG funds to support project Development Director Anne Krieg presented to the Committee. Reported that Penquis is requesting $200,000 in gap funding for permanent supportive housing project at 22 Cleveland Street. Staff reviewed application with both HUD and CDBG consultant to ensure it would be an appropriate use of CDBG funds. Councilor Tremble asked why CDBG funds are being requested instead of ARPA funds. Krieg responded that CDBG funds are available immediately and there are fewer conditions on funding due to property being an acquisition rather than a new construction, so staff felt this was simplest method of supporting project. Councilor Fournier asked if other funding sources had been explored. Jason Bird of Penquis presented to the Committee and responded that they had, and that this was final source explored when other options did not pan out. Councilor Fournier asked for the timeline of the project. Bird responded that Penquis plans to close on the property during the third week in April, begin renovations within 45 days of the closing date, and then complete the project within 3-4 months following. Councilor Tremble moved to approve use of CDBG funds to support project. Seconded by Councilor Schaefer. Vote unless doubted, no doubt. Meeting minutes respectfully submitted, Sarah Pritchard Admin. Asst. C&ED