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Oshkosh RDA executive director reports on Merc Marine CSM, Merge default and riverwalk talks
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Summary
The executive director updated the RDA on multiple development projects: Merc Marine's CSM recorded and offer under review, ThetaCare clinic opening, Merge developer default on Building 3, and riverwalk easement talks for Pioneer Island that could affect costs and design.
The Oshkosh Redevelopment Authority heard an executive director report that covered progress and issues across several city development projects.
Staff said the certified survey map (CSM) for Merc Marine / Boatworks has been completed and recorded and that Merc Marine submitted its version of an offer to purchase, which is under legal review. "We have completed the CSM. It has officially been recorded," the executive director reported.
The director also said ThetaCare has opened and was accepting patients, and that tax-increment financing from both ThetaCare and Merc Marine properties is expected to begin generating revenue next year. On the Sawdust District and Pioneer Island, staff said the city is working with a property owner on potential redevelopment and negotiating with the Department of Natural Resources and the state about riverwalk requirements; staff said they hope to retain a more natural riverwalk design to avoid higher construction costs tied to a fully paved riverwalk.
On the Washington housing project, staff reported progress with grading and stormwater work and said Habitat had closed on four lots while proposals to build on nine other lots are temporarily on hold pending deed-restriction legal analysis. The executive director said Merge has received notice of default for failing to build Building 3 and that the increment tied to any additional Building 3 construction would be reduced under existing developer agreements unless the developer seeks council approval.
Staff also announced procedural changes: establishing an application deadline for RDA items (suggested roughly 10 days in advance) so staff can prepare packet materials on time, and that staff will monitor lots and developer compliance more closely going forward.
Board members pressed on potential budget implications for a more permanent structure on Pioneer Island and the riverwalk costs, noting that even small development there could have large implications for the city's budget. The executive director said staff will continue legal analysis on deed restrictions and work with state and local partners on riverwalk design.
The RDA set a next meeting date for March 18 at 4 p.m. and adjourned.
