Council authorizes negotiations with Alpha Development for downtown parcels

Selection committee members briefed the council on responses to a downtown redevelopment RFP for approximately 2.8 acres on Carlson Avenue. Staff reported that Alpha Development was the only respondent proposing on all three parcels and that the proposal best matched the city’s downtown vision. The Urban Renewal Board approved the recommendation earlier in the day, and council voted to authorize staff to enter negotiations with Alpha Development on terms for redevelopment. The motion authorized negotiations only; any final development agreement or financial terms would return to council for approval.

Council members said they hope negotiations will preserve downtown character and attract uses that generate foot traffic and economic activity. Staff emphasized the authorization is to move into negotiations rather than a binding contract.