The Edina Housing and Redevelopment Authority moved forward with plans to solicit development proposals for the former public works site at 5146 Eden Avenue during their Feb. 27 meeting, despite ongoing uncertainty about the city's fire station location needs.

Economic Development Manager Bill Neindorf said the authority plans to release a request for proposals by March 3, seeking developers for housing-focused projects on the 12-acre site. The RFP prioritizes ownership housing such as townhomes, condominiums or cooperatives over rental properties, according to the discussion.

The fire department ranks the Eden Avenue site fourth or fifth among potential locations for a new fire station, with preferred sites located east of Highway 100. Fire Chief Slama said the department's top choice involves land that would become available when Highway 100 exit ramps are removed, though that option requires legislative approval for a land swap with the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

During public comment, two residents raised concerns about the Innovation Lab's closure and potential loan defaults. David Tranel of Lakeview Drive questioned the city's transparency regarding the lab's status and called for an outside investigation. Executive Director comments indicated the chamber-operated lab is "in a state of flux" with struggles maintaining operations, though no formal default has occurred on the city loan.

The authority also addressed tree removal violations at the 7200 France Avenue development project, where 14 trees designated for preservation were cut down despite site improvement agreements. City staff scheduled a meeting with the developer and city forester for Feb. 28 to address the violation and require enhanced landscaping before final site plan approval.