Minutes - Council Work Session - 05/27/2008

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Councilmember Dehen stated that allowing poles 100 feet high for lights and then putting the cell tower on top does not seem intrusive to him. He stated that he didn't think an additional 15 or 20 feet would be that big of a deal for people. There was a Consensus to direct staff to look into co-location, allowing up to an additional 20 feet on top of 100 foot taIllight poles for cell tower coverage. Councilmember Jeffrey stated that he would like to clarify the co-location should be with an amenity and not another provider. Management Intern Gladhill noted that the moratorium expires on September 17, 2008, so staff will bring more information back to a future meeting this summer. 2) Police Explorers Program Officer Ben Rossum distributed a flyer on the Police Explorer program. Police Chief Way stated that several officers had been involved in a Police Explorer programs and have expressed interest in starting one in Ramsey. Officer Rossum gave a short Power Point presentation and reviewed the program. He stated that the program would be eligible for 14-20 year olds that have grades of "C" or better and have had no adverse contacts with the police. He stated that they plan to meet Sunday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with lectures as well as hands-on learning. He stated that once a month there will be training for things like how to handle firearms. He stated that the Explorers would be treated similarly to the Reserve Officers and they could help with events such as Happy Days, National Night Out, Safety Camp and the Anoka Halloween Parade. Councilmember Dehen asked what the interest has been in other communities. Officer Rossum stated that interest varies, but his goal is to have 10-12 kids in the first year. He stated that they held an informational meeting and 14 kids showed up and he got phone calls from another 3 kids that were unable to attend the meeting. He stated that every other City in the County, except St. Francis, has a post. Councilmember Dehen asked if there would be a lottery system if there were too many applicants. Officer Rossum stated that they are still working on those details, but noted that if there are too many, he may send those kids over to Anoka because they have additional room in their program. He stated that he thinks that grades will probably be the cut point and noted that they are not just looking for kids that want to come and shoot guns, but those who are possibly interested in a career in law enforcement. He stated that they will also be involved in fundraising efforts, so the funding is not just coming from the Police Department. He stated that they could also be utilized in missing person searches or a non-dangerous scene where manpower is needed. He stated that they will also take field trips to police related venues, such as the County Morgue. City Council Work Session / May 27, 2008 Page 5 of8