04-04-2011 Meeting of the La Porte Development Corporation Board of Directors minutes

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4. Discuss and review former car dealerships along State Highway 146 and marketing options and provide staff with direction — N. Ojeda Fran Lowe, Jay and Lester Marks, Senior Director John Littman and Executive Vice - President Kelley Parker of Cushman & Wakefield discussed the vacant car dealership properties along State Highway 146. The properties have been actively marketed with brokers and developers for at least a year. Zoning issues seem to be the holdup because interest has been from the port/trucking industry. The price has been reduced in order to generate interest in retail; however, in these economic times, it is not favorable for retail. Board members inquired what type of port-related businesses are interested in the properties and was informed truck and trailer maintenance. Retail businesses are not locating in this area. The Buc -ee's Corporation was contacted; however, they are not building stores at this time. 5. Discuss low - powered FM Radio Station within the City of La Porte and provide staff with direction— R. Woodard Board member Randy Woodard discussed a low- powered FM Radio Station and informed the members that the La Porte Independent School District is very receptive to running this low powered FM Radio Station. Mr. Woodard informed an application for a construction permit with the FCC or internet radio streaming not requiring an application with the FCC is required. Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins was asked to research whether the Corporation could give seed money to be utilized for this type of project. The school district would be in charge of the radio station, and it would provide great opportunities for the students to run their own radio station. Board member Pizzitola inquired as to the time frame the Board would be donating money toward the project. The seed money request is $15,000.00; however, the bulk of the money needed to actually bring about the project would be through large donations given through the proposed establishment of a 501(c)(3). If only internet streaming comes about, the station can accept commercial advertising; but if a low- powered radio station is established, there is no advertising allowed; however, companies may underwrite programming. Board member Engelken stepped away from the table at 5:45 p.m. and returned at 5:46 p.m. The low- powered FM Radio Station is an excellent way to communicate to the public information in industry, city council, planning and zoning issues, and economic development in the community. Assistant City Attorney Askins will advise if the EDC can provide seed money for this purpose. 6. Executive Session — The City of La Porte Development Corporation reserves the right to meet in executive session on any agenda item should the need arise and if authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Title 5, Chapter 551, of the Texas Government Code. An executive session was not convened. 7. Board Comments: President Warren and Vice President Pizzitola, Board members Zemanek, Engelken, Clausen, Ojeda and Woodard There were no comments from Board members. Page 2 of 3 April 4, 2011, La Porte Development Corporation Board Minutes