1:37:36The ADM Grain Mill, closed since 2019, has been a topic of contention due to its historical significance and potential for adaptive reuse. The property owner incurs annual security costs of $676,000 due to safety concerns, and a plan was proposed to convert the site into housing units, with an estimated development cost of $28 million. Despite its eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places, which could offer tax credits for preservation, the challenges and costs associated with adapting the grain silos and elevators were noted.

The Historic Preservation Commission had approved the demolition, conditional upon documenting the site’s historical value. However, this decision was appealed by Joel Albers, who argued for the feasibility of adaptive reuse, particularly for affordable housing. Albers emphasized the lack of critical data supporting demolition over reuse, advocating for the preservation of the mill’s historical narrative. He underscored the potential for using existing structures to address housing needs, advocating for alternatives before making a final decision.

Contrastingly, the developer, Louis Zachary, defended the demolition, citing adherence to guidelines by the Historic Preservation Commission and city staff. He characterized adaptive reuse as economically unrealistic. Zachary expressed concerns about the site remaining vacant if pursued without a feasible plan for reuse, arguing for the new development to support the city’s housing demands while respecting comprehensive plans.

1:59:02Public testimony highlighted varying perspectives, with some supporting the site’s future development and others expressing dissatisfaction with the proposed demolition. Council Member Ellison motioned to deny the appeal, citing the Heritage Preservation Commission’s and staff’s recommendations as sound, emphasizing the area’s need for new developments. Ellison highlighted the economic realities of construction. The council ultimately voted to deny the appeal, endorsing new development over preservation.

0:19In another significant agenda item, the committee addressed the imposition of conditions on 22 rental dwelling licenses held by Hussain Khan and Mir Ali. The properties were subject to numerous code violations and delinquent property taxes, with a hearing officer recommending a 36-month period for enforcing compliance. Khan requested modifications, arguing the enforcement period was excessive and detrimental to tenants. However, the committee upheld the recommended conditions, emphasizing the need for accountability and tenant stability.

21:14Council Member Ellison and others acknowledged the tenants’ occupancy in condemned buildings and unpaid taxes. The committee affirmed the three-year monitoring period to ensure systematic compliance and prevent future violations, prioritizing tenant welfare amidst ongoing discussions on property management and city oversight.

0:19The meeting also highlighted a mural project in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Council Member Ellison and others expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing arts’ role in downtown revitalization. Additionally, the committee approved a liquor license for Tropico Colombian Street Food, praised for being a women-owned business in the Warehouse District, with positive feedback noted from the community.