By MaryHelen Swanson

Steve Johnson of the Solomon Real Estate Group, Inc., won't admit to any commercial business coming in to the North Branch Market Place development, with the exception of Shopko. It's the new commercial area west of the freeway.

He kidded when pressed by members of the council and the mayor about who the other businesses would be, that it always gets in the paper, and that could get him in trouble.

Because he does not have firm commitments at this time, he would not name names of other retail businesses.

Johnson will say that he is still working on a grocery store for the site as well as smaller businesses.

The North Branch city council approved a final plat of seven commercial lots and five outlots for NB Market Place Monday night.

The commercial development is located on the northwest corner of the I-35 intersection.

The final plat approved this week was somewhat different that the preliminary plat presented by the developers but still meets all the requirements.

The final plat was approved with conditions including that there be no driveway onto Hwy. 95, except the right in/right out access allowed by a Mn/DOT permit. Full access will be at Hwy. 95 and the aligned Flink Ave. (That project is included in the I-35 bridge project but is being stepped up at the request of the commercial developers.)

The developers have also applied for $900,000 tax abatement to assist in preparation of the site for the project. The county may also be involved in the tax abatement.

Councilor Theresa Furman was concerned that on the final plat the location of a gas station was changed, or not included. She said people were very interested in having a gas station west of the freeway.

Johnson said after refusal by one company, his company could not promise one would be included.

Mayor Karsky said she would appreciate knowing, when negotiations are complete, what other retailers are coming in there.

Johnson said he expects by the July 23 council meeting he will have more information.

In related action, the council approved a resolution vacating the right of way for a portion of Flink Avenue (formerly County Road 64) from Hwy. 95 to the north branch of the Sunrise River.

When Flink Avenue is realigned, this right of way will not be needed, but it needs to remain in place until the realignment project is completed and the new Flink Avenue is opened. Once this occurs, the vacation of this right of way can be filed with Chisago County.

Comment from wallace k hanson, 7/12/07

I think a walmart or target would be a welcome addition to North Branch. It would save driving to Forest Lake or Cambridge.

Comment from Sara, 7/25/07

There is an extreme need for a gas station on the west side of the bridge. I work in Cambridge but live on Flink and it takes an extra 15 to 20 minutes if I need gas before driving to Cambridge. A gas station is needed more then anything else.

Comment from Darcy, 8/1/07

Bring on Shopko and a big name grocery store. We need it!!!!