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Commissioner Dehen stated that he thinks it is inappropriate for the taxpayers to give their tax dollars to bring in outside people to meet our housing goals. Commissioner Elvigstated that the homes don't need to be for people outside of the community because local people could qualify also. He stated that he would like to make sure that residents. know that this is available to them. Mr. Britalden stated that there is an informational meeting scheduled for next month. Commissioner Elvig suggested that perhaps advertising dollars could be spent to ensure that residents know about this option. He stated that he agrees with Commissioner Strommen that the City gets a "big bang for its buck" because these are $200,000 units, which is a great deal for the City. Chairperson Olson stated that the metro area is slated to grow and Ramsey will need to absorb some of that population. She stated that everyone present was an "outsider" at one time. Commissioner Look stated that he didn't think anyone sitting at the table was subsidized to come into the City. He stated that his concern is that recently there have been discussions with the P ACT charter school and the desire to see an emphasis on Ramsey residents, and he feels this is another situation where Ramsey residents should be given a higher priority. Commissioner Dehen asked if there was a way to give Ramsey residents preference in this process. Mr. Britalden stated that to a certain extent, they are already doing that. He stated that because they issue the mortgages, they are bound by fair housing laws, so they cannot guarantee that the units will be sold to people living in Ramsey, but as part of the family selection process, there are bonus points awarded to people who live, work or have children in school in Ramsey. He stated that this could give them 30 possible bonus points. Commissioner Elvig reiterated his concern that Ramsey residents are not aware of this program and suggested that the HRA consider spending some money to get this information to people. He asked about the possibility of identifying residents in the lower 30% of our demographic group and send them a flyer. Commissioner Jeffrey suggested that something be put into the utility bill. Commissioner Look stated that at a meeting with Consultant Cathy Capone Bennett to establish affordable housing goals, Mayor Gamec stated that he felt these numbers were fictitious, however, now this group is sitting here stating that this is our goal. He stated that he would like to establish a realistic, achievable goal. He stated that he is not opposing the $6,000 because he feels it has been put to good use in previous years. He stated that he would like Ramsey residents' needs met before those of people outside the community. Housing and Redevelopment Authority / May 13, 2008 Page 3 of 6