Edina City Council — Transcript
Thursday, July 16, 2026
Spark Streamline Grant Program for Kumon Math and Reading Center
Spark Program Updates and Funding Allocation
TIF and Spark Funding Oversight
Federal Opportunity Zone Program
Affordable Housing Programs Review
Internet Essentials Program Funding
Votes (1)
Proposed Grant Agreement with SKL, Inc. (Kumon Math and Reading Center)
Dissent: Commissioner Risser (voted 'Nay')
Moved by Commissioner Pierce [0:24:43] · Seconded by Commissioner Agnu [0:24:52]
Economic Development Director Bill Newandorf presented the proposal to use the Spark streamline grant program for a $24,000 reimbursement to SKL, Inc. (Kumon Math and Reading Center) for ADA accessibility improvements and retrofitting their new space at 7275 Ohms Lane. The project aims to subdivide the space for two businesses and address significant code update costs. The owner, Ms. SK Low, explained the business's long history in Edina and the necessity of the grant to cover high ADA compliance costs. Commissioners generally supported the grant as a vital use of Spark funds to retain small businesses, although Commissioner Risser expressed reservations about public funds for ADA improvements when public infrastructure ADA needs are unmet and about the overall Spark program's impact.
Notable Quotes (3)
This streamline grant is intended to be simple and straightforward to really work at the pace of small business. Um so the the program is relatively small but vital for small businesses.
I'm looking at this. Okay, it's just $24,000, but I looking at all the other expenses that we've got and the public need. I I'm having a hard time with this...
And that's exactly what I think that this fund is for is to be able to help small business. And I appreciate again manager Nounorf's uh diligent work in the small business community to be able to make sure we take advantage of these kinds of opportunities.
Ordinances & Resolutions (26)
Program used to support small businesses with grants for job growth and reinvestment, caped at $24,000 reimbursement for streamlined projects.
Broader program using unobligated tax increment dollars, established in 2021 and terminating at the end of 2026.
Proposed agreement to provide $24,000 in Spark funds for ADA improvements and space retrofitting for Kumon Math and Reading Center.
Legislation that authorized the extension of the Spark program.
Tax Increment Financing funds, a source of revenue for redevelopment projects and related to the Spark program.
City policy that requires affordable units in market-rate buildings, with flexibility for buy-ins introduced in 2018.
Specific policy requiring the inclusion of affordable units within new developments.
Tax status for naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH) buildings, offering tax savings in exchange for preserving affordability.
Program allowing condominiums to borrow money for common area improvements, repaid via property tax assessments.
Funding mechanism used for housing improvement areas.
Program aimed at preserving affordable single-family homes through partnerships with non-profits, with 99-year affordability covenants.
Funding source for various affordable housing programs and conducted a nexus study for buy-in fees.
Funding source for various affordable housing programs.
Funding source for various affordable housing programs and worked with on Opportunity Zone submissions.
Potential funding source for affordable housing projects.
Federal tax incentive program to encourage investment in qualified low-income census tracks.
Federal funds (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act / American Rescue Plan Act) used for emergency rental assistance and Internet Essentials.
Unspecified funding source, likely local affordable housing agency, mentioned for single family rental and emergency rental assistance.
Program providing internet access to low-income households, funded initially by ARPA and facing termination.
Down payment assistance program, currently on pause, which the First Generation DPA program is subordinate to.
Down payment assistance for eligible city employees and school district staff, with loans repaid over time.
Program that provided financial assistance to households for rent.
Future policy priorities to be discussed with the League of Minnesota Cities, including ideas for NOAH programs.
Planned Unit Development, a type of zoning change that can trigger affordable housing policy requirements.
Comprehensive Plan change, a type of land use change that can trigger affordable housing policy requirements.
Study completed by the Metropolitan Council to help determine appropriate payment in lieu fees for affordable housing policies.