The most significant topic of the meeting was the approval of Resolution 2411, which sanctioned a development agreement with the CCF County Real Estate Fund for the Highway 61 LSC project. This includes grant assistance of up to $875,000 to support the Heights multifamily housing project. The chair highlighted that this project had been in the works for an extended period, with extensive proforma analysis and discussions. The approval of this resolution marks a critical point in the public approval process, with only the development agreement and tax abatement requests remaining before building permits can be issued. Concerns about potential conflicts of interest were raised, leading to some commissioners disclosing their limited partnership status and recusing themselves from voting. The development team expressed appreciation for the HRA’s support and confirmed their readiness to proceed.

Following this, Resolution 2412 was introduced to amend the development agreement with C’s Trail Development Company regarding the Temperance Trail Housing Development. The resolution aims to extend the construction start date and closing date, along with adjustments to the affordability criteria for entry-level homes. The developer committed to selling homes to households at or below 115% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with a target price of $290,000. This amendment comes as the developer explores additional funding opportunities, including a $100,000 award for infrastructure improvements. The chair disclosed a distant connection to a billboard involved in the project. The resolution also addresses logistical challenges faced by the developer, including environmental considerations and design adjustments due to wetland requirements. The Planning Commission had previously reviewed these matters, urging the developer to resolve outstanding issues promptly to keep the project on track.

Another discussion revolved around the termination of the Bukberg development agreement. The developer requested to terminate the agreement due to challenges in moving forward and the impending expiration of funds. The chair supported this request, emphasizing the need to respect timelines associated with ITR and ARPA funding. The board formally motioned for the termination of the development agreement.

In addition to these major resolutions, the meeting covered updates on tax abatements related to a project in the Heights. Board members were invited to show support at the upcoming County Board meeting scheduled for the 23rd. The conversation then shifted to a developer’s efforts to navigate the zoning ordinance concerning a site, focusing on “by-right development,” which allows construction without special approvals, provided certain parameters are followed. The developer was exploring viable projects without requiring a Planned Unit Development (PUD) but instead pursuing a developer agreement with the city.

The resignation of board chair Mary Sness was acknowledged with a resolution expressing gratitude for her service and leadership since the establishment of the Cook County HRA. The vacancy resulting from her departure was noted, with efforts underway to fill the position within District 3, which Sness represented. The meeting also addressed the upcoming election of officers, adhering to bylaws stipulating that officers could not serve in the same role for more than one term. Nominations for chair, vice chair, and secretary were discussed, resulting in Commissioner Gaer being nominated as chair, Commissioner O’Brien as vice chair, and Commissioner Hansen as secretary. The nominations were accepted through a motion and second, with no objections raised.

The meeting continued with updates on the 2024 fall ITR applications for housing grants. Three potential projects were noted as interested in applying, with further information awaited to create compelling applications. One project involved Nor Scogan, which faced access and easement challenges near Highway 7. Another potential project was a phase two development at the Heights, still in preliminary stages but with an interested party. The third project concerned the Cedar Grove U parcel, with an option to purchase under consideration.

Additionally, the Envelope Energy Improvement Program received positive feedback. The first project under this program was successfully completed, with residents in Hovland expressing gratitude for the installation of new windows. The second project, involving spray foam insulation for a home in town, received approval, and two more applicants were in the process of finding contractors.

The interim EDA director addressed the board, noting involvement in the hiring process for a new director. The initial job posting had expired, prompting plans to repost the updated job description. A proposed end date of October 11 for the interim role was met with approval.