Redevelopment Authority Meeting Minutes – June 4, 2020

REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF KAUKAUNA

A meeting of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Kaukauna was called to order at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2020, by Chairman Feldt.  This meeting was held remotely via teleconference.

Members Present: Feldt, Landreman, Moore, VanderWyst, Verhagen, Windorff.

Also Present: Planning Director Jakel, Principal Planner Brunette.

1. Introduction of New Member. Chairman Feldt introduced John Moore as the new Alder rep replacing Phil Kohne and asked that the Authority recognize Mr. Kohne for his service.  Chairman Feldt also announced that long-time Authority member Jodi Smith decided to end her appointment and asked that the Authority recognize Ms. Smith for her nine years of service.
2. Minutes. A motion to approve the minutes of the April 9, 2020, meeting was made by VanderWyst, seconded by Landreman. All members voted aye. Motion carried.

3. Discussion on Extending the Current RACK Loan Payment Deferral Option. Jakel explained that the Authority previously approved a three-month deferral of loan payments to assist with the financial effect of COVID-19.  Mr. Jakel explained that other entities are looking at extending deferrals through the end of the year. Mr. Jakel reminded the Authority that PACE loans are automatically added to the tax roll and are therefore not eligible for deferral.  Mr. Jakel asked for clarification on two scenarios – the first was the two new loans that were recently approved during the deferral period, and the second was the possibility of offering the deferral (interest does not accrue during the deferral period) to loans that are currently delinquent.  Mr. Landreman supported extending the deferral through the end of the year and recommended that the deferral option only be offered to loans that are current.  Mr. Feldt agreed. Ms. Brunette gave an update on the two new loans – BLG Company is waiting on the purchase of materials for their renovation and Sticky Fingers Catering (Mischler) opted not to close their loan until the kitchen equipment is installed.  A motion to extend the RACK payment deferral option to the end of 2020 to all current loans, as well as new loans to BLG Company, LLC and Sticky Fingers Catering (Mischler) was made by Landreman, seconded by Moore.  All members voted aye.  Mr. Jakel explained that the new deferral option would be offered to all eligible loans and that some that opted out previously may take us up on this offer.
4. Update on Outagamie County COVID-19 Loan Program. Jakel explained that Outagamie County currently has $250,000 available for COVID-19 relief with loans of up to $20,000 to cover rent, utilities, payroll and benefits and equipment necessary to continue operations.  They have lent out $180,000 to date, mostly to cover rent with an average loan of $12,000.  Mr. Jakel explained that any business within Outagamie County is eligible and the application is similar to RACK’s.  A business needs to demonstrate how they have been impacted by the virus and personal guarantees are the only security required.   Loan terms are 2% for five years.  One Kaukauna business – Galleria of Tile, received a loan in the amount of $20,000 to cover staffing costs and to adjust the showroom to remain open in a safe manner. Mr. Jakel explained that Winnebago County also offers something similar.  Mr. Landreman asked if RACK could consider doing something similar.  Mr. Jakel explained that he had originally considered it however, RACK would need to take a more secure position than the County does.  Mr. Jakel explained that he has not seen much interest in the County program from Kaukauna businesses however that may change in the future.  Ms. Brunette explained that staff has been available to the business community however the options for “free money” funding sources were likely being considered first.  Mr. Moore asked if staff had been working with the Chambers of Commerce on promoting the program.  Ms. Brunette explained that we have been. Chairman Feldt explained that Kaukauna Utilities is offering up to $5,000 to assist in business growth and bill payment assistance.
5. Other Business. Brunette explained the availability of a new grant program and explained that additional information and promotion would be coming soon through the City and the Heart of the Valley Chamber.  Chairman Feldt asked about business at New China Wok.  Mr. VanderWyst explained that he had been there recently and it was very good. Mr. Moore explained that he had a take-out order. Mr. Jakel explained that he met with the owner’s approximately three weeks ago and they reported business had exceeded their expectations and they were anticipating hiring additional staff.

There being no further business to be brought before the Authority, a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:30  a.m. was made by Moore, seconded by VanderWyst. Upon roll call, all members voted aye. Motion carried.

Julianne Schroeder
Community Development Coordinator