BusHsgDev Highlights 2007 1108 - Laserfiche WebLink

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3. Discussion Regarding a Downtown Farmers Market City Manager Jermanis introduced the possibility of a Farmers Market returning to the Downtown Area. He reported that the Bayfair Center Farmers Market is successful and the Office of Business Development is exploring a weekday Farmers Market to complement the Bayfair Market. He then introduced Development Planner Evans who reported on the growth of Farmers Markets nationwide, from 1,755 in 1994 to 4,385 in 2006. He then reviewed the benefits which included individual benefits, such as healthy and organic foods; community benefits, such as supporting local farmers and economic impact to surrounding businesses (each dollar spent at a Farmers Market generates three dollars in local economic activity); and environmental benefits, such as a decrease the amount of miles food needs to travel. Potential concerns were also shared and a cooperative approach to establishing a market, including public involvement and outreach with the management group, local farmers and the community was recommended. Planner Evans then reviewed a proposed timeline and budget to bring a Farmers Market to Downtown San Leandro by June 1, 2008. The timeline included the issuing a Request for Proposals, selecting a market manager and negotiating the contract, selection of a location, vendors and marketing. Although Farmers Markets can start with as little as $2,000 in seed money or as much as $150,000, an average Bay Area Farmers Market requires $10,000 - $30,000 in annual funding. The Committee discussed the timing of a market and supported a seasonal, mid -week afternoon/evening market with the possibility of music and/or other entertainment opportunities. Committee Recommendation The Committee recommended the City proceed with the RFP process and negotiations to bring a Farmers Market to the Downtown. 4. Update on Development Projects a. Rent Review Board. City Manager Jermanis reported that, as directed by the Committee at their last meeting, staff has been working to identify individuals to fill the two Rent Review Board vacancies. Housing Manager Liao distributed a list of applicants for the vacancies and explained that six of the individuals applied within the past year and four applications were received as a result of recent outreach. Councilmembers Stephens and Souza volunteered to sit on the interview panel to select individuals for the homeowner (resident) and landlord (resident) positions. The interview panel will forward a recommendation to Council. b. Acquisition and Development Update on 14860 East 14th Street (former Dollar Rent -a - Car site on E. 14th Street and Bancroft Ave). City Manager Jermanis reported that although there has been a slowing in the housing market, there is still interest from non- profit affordable housing project developers. Housing Manager Liao reported that the Riding Group proposal for 44 -unit townhome development at 14860 East 14`h Street fell through and the property owners are again negotiating with EAH for development of an affordable housing project. Manager Liao reported that EAH is an experienced non - 3