Commission hears public comment and approves MBN Properties’ $850,000 rehabilitation for 701 Main Avenue

The commission held a public hearing and then moved to approve an application from MBN Properties to rehabilitate the commercial building at 701 Main Avenue, a landmark downtown site. Staff reported the property’s current assessed value at $954,000 and the applicant’s proposed investment of $850,000, exceeding the program’s minimum threshold and amounting to approximately $69 per square foot as presented in the application materials.

Nicole Crestor from city staff summarized the application and noted the project will pursue historic preservation tax credits. Tony Uckel, representing the applicant, was present to answer questions. Commissioners asked about the project’s scoring in the Renaissance Zone review; staff said scoring will be revised as part of an upcoming land development code update and incentive review.

During discussion Commissioner Fevella (commenting) and Commissioner Strand raised concerns about public process: Strand argued there should have been earlier public discussion about a transfer of the property from the Park District and asked why the city’s Historic Preservation Commission had not reviewed the change in ownership and anticipated uses. Staff replied that the Historic Preservation Commission’s authority under the city land development code is advisory and that federal historic registry designation operates separately; staff said this application involved federal historic-preservation tax credits and advisory review processes, not a city historic overlay review that would require a local HPC decision.

After closing the public hearing, the commission moved and seconded approval of the rehabilitation application; the motion carried. Staff noted the project was recommended by the Renaissance Zone review and that application materials and ranking were included in the packet.