Development Team Meeting Notes (96-99)

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~ Courthouse Square Project Interview Panel Planni~g Session May 29,1996 PRESENT: RG Andersen-Wyckoff, Transit District; Luis Caraballo, Transit District; Randy Franke, Marion County; Randy Curtis, Marion County; David Glennie, YMCA; Ann Gavin Sample, City of Sa1em; Gary Dennison, Chamber of Commerce; Dick Hayden, City of Salem; Bob Speckman, Salem Downtown Association; Ed Martin, Commercial Bank Randy opened the meeting by explaining that it was important for everyone to meet and determine objectives prior to interviewing the developers. Introductions were made. Randy stated that, by way of introduction, certain informational issues relating to the cost and budget needed to be relayed to the panel. This is information that only staff has had. It was purposely withheld from the developers because it is constantly changing and they did not want to confuse the developers by having them try to deal with those changes. The selection criteria is outlined in the RFP that was sent out, on pages 8& 9. This information will be the primary criteria for selection of the developer in next week's interviews. The other thing that has been determined is that some of the members have a conflict of interest or a perceived conflict of interest. Randy stated that he and RG are comfortable with everyone on the panel. Any relationships should be brought to their attention before the interviews next week. ~ Rand asked Rand Franke to set the sta e from the Coun 's oint of view and define the im ortance of Y Y g tY P ~ p the project. Randy Franke explained that the original decision that allows the County to be in the position to discuss this kind of project was made when the county acquired the property on the block. The intent was for future development by the County. A similar proposal was discussed in the mid-eighties. Unfortunately, because of a host of reasons, the concept did not pencil out. He related that a good example of partnershipping is the relationship that the County used for the recovery facility in Brooks. Two issues are still there, bottom line cost and the cost to the rate payers. The County wants a project that will meet the needs of the County, will look good, will not be an embarrassment, and the keep the cost of services down. In terms of services, the Courthouse security is a good example. The Courthouse has ceased to be an easily accessible and an open and friendly place for people to come and do business. The Board of Commissioners are extremely frustrated by that. They want a reasonably accessible, open friendly environment for citizens to come do their business. There is also the need to consolidate services to one location for the public. The Board believes this project is exciting and will meet more than just the County's interests. It will meet Transit's interests and provide positive benefits to the downtown area. It may be a tall order. The panel should not necessarily be looking at the low bidder. They should be looking at the background and qualifications of the developer, does that team have a vision, does that team have the experience and flexibility to come up with innovative ideas. Randy stated he wished he could be part of that selection process. Ann asked Randy Franke if there doesn't need to be some strategy to market a new office building and if ~ in the fact public perception needs to be addressed.