Agenda - Council - 08/12/2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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-92- political rhetoric displays a serious lack of professionalism, to say nothing about their lack of professional courtesy to the City ofRarfisey. I don't know who the "chiefs" were that sat around noddling over this ill-advised action, but people at the head of an organization have a responsibility to do their homework to understand the issues before they render an irresponsible opinion. The efforts of Ramsey are to How bus/ness, commerce and new housing opportunities for this community. We would very much like to do that while protecting our citizens from further financial burdens; but no one asked that question. I find the North Metro Chamber of Commerce's actions on this matter and their lacI< of inquiry to be terribly unprofessional and irresponsible. Mr. Mayor, if this was not just a bad idea that was carried out by a select few at the chamber and it truly reflects the chamber's level of responsibility, I summit that the City of Ramsey divorce its relationship with this organization as their decorum is not consistent with out community." Mayor Gamec stated that several of the Mayors from the surrounding communities are trying to schedule a meeting with the Board of Directors of the North Metro Chamber of Commerce to discuss some of the communication problems. It is good for people to get involved, but it has to happen with knowledge. Other communities have had similar problems so he would like to hold that meeting with other Mayor's a~d then get back to the Council on the issue. Gary Hanson, 14040 Azurite Street NW, Ramsey, inquired if the Council was denying the aspect of the flyer in the fact that the Council xvas giving no consideration for taxing a 4.5 percent gas franchise fee. Mayor Gamec replied that he had no problem with presenting information on the gas franchise fee. Mr. Hanson inquired if the North ~ietro Chamber of Commerce had their facts right. Mayor Gamec explained that the City Council conducted a public hearing on the issue and met with some of the smaller business ~oups in regards to the gas franchise fee, but there was ho communication with the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Hanson inquired if a vote was scheduled for tonight's meeting on the issue. Mayor Gamec replied that it was an agenda item. Councilmember Etivg stated that the purpose of his disappointment was that it was very unprofessional for North Metro Chamber of Commerce to not 'to talk to staff to discuss what the difficulties are. Case #2: Adopt Ordinance Implementing a Gas Franchise Fee on Centerpoint Energ3', Minnegasco and Adopt Ordinance Implementing an Electric Franchise Fee on Connexus Energy and City of Anoka Electric City Council/July 22, 2003 Page 6 of 33 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I