mincow 12-08-20 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Adoption of Resolution 2020-71 would be an important first step and a chance for Council to voice its support for moving forward. Mr. Turnock stated that after CASTO was not selected three years ago, it has followed the project with interest and remains interested. He expressed excitement about the opportunity. He emphasized CASTO's team approach. He stated that this project is well-suited for CASTO and its areas of expertise. Scott Simon, President of North Pointe Realty introduced himself and his company. He explained his history with the City of Lakewood which includes being the owner or manager of several Lakewood buildings. He stated that North Pointe's partnership with CASTO is based upon shared values, and that prioritizing community input is one of the most important of those. Mr. Turnock gave a high-level overview of his company. He highlighted several projects which CASTO has initiated over the past three years within developed suburbs with engaged communities. He discussed how each is similar to Lakewood's opportunity. The projects discussed were: • The Barrett in the south side of Columbus • The Dexter in Ohio City—to be delivered within 90 days • Montgomery Square in Montgomery Ohio—to start in Spring 2021 • Thurber Village in Columbus —to start in Summer 2021 He briefly discussed the extent of community input into each of these developments and other unique qualities of the sites. He concluded by expressing appreciation for the opportunity to be back before City Council and stated that he was excited and ready to start collaboration. Director Leininger stated that the administration is requesting approval of Resolution 2020-71 at the next Council meeting so that the City can formally sit down with CASTO and begin negotiations. Councilmember Bullock remarked on the original goals for development on the site. He spoke to the matter of achieving the City's needs and also navigating uncertainties due to COVID. Director Leininger assured the committee that the administration and the developer are not rushing and that they stand by the original goals for the site. Councilmember Bullock asked the developers to provide a preview of their vision for the site. Mt. Turnock stated that the major elements of the site will remain pretty much the same as proposed three years ago and the objective is to create a one-of-a-kind destination. He did acknowledge that the site is in better condition than three years ago which opens new opportunities. He also acknowledged that trends in retail and office space are changing and a new proposal would be responsive to those changes. Director Leininger added that the project is still intended to be a mixed-use of office, retail, and perhaps a hospitality component. 2