Minutes - Council Work Session - 12/06/2011

Home

She pointed out if this is a trend for assemblies to go into these types of buildings, then she may make the opposite argument that the City needs to assure they are safe spaces. Acting Mayor Wise suggested contacting suburban neighbors to find out whether they have had similar issues with this Code. Fire Chief Kapler stated staff had this discussion at a previous City Council Work Session when Mr. Sharp came forward with a project and asked the Council to consider appealing Chapter 1306. At that time, he asked the Council to not repeal it because of the benefits it provides. Fire Chief Kapler stated he is glad to do that research and Fire Marshal Kohner can talk about what other area municipalities have done. Acting Mayor Wise recalled that discussion and that the Council was told the City could not repeal Chapter 1306. Councilmember Backous stated he remembers that discussion and being frustrated by the fact that the City had no choice or option. He noted he is in the insurance business, does not like it when buildings burn to the ground, and likes sprinklers. But, the Council is faced with people who have empty buildings and if required to sprinkler it may take two years of rent for them to break even. Councilmember Backous stated that is not a good option and asked staff to prepare a cost/benefit analysis and use common sense. Councilmember Tossey stated he concurs with Councilmember Backous and also had the understanding when Mr. Sharp made his request that Chapter 1306 could not be changed. City Administrator Ulrich asked the Council to remain focused on what the City can change. He noted the purpose of this agenda item is to clarify what can be changed following due consideration. Acting Mayor Wise asked staff to provide information on the cost for fire suppression building standards should the City repeal Chapter 1306. The City Council agreed with the suggestion by Fire Chief Kapler to use the 167 Avenue project as an example to determine the cost for sprinkling compared to the cost of building construction requirements if Chapter 1306 is repealed. 4) Review of 2012 Legislative Agenda City Administrator Ulrich reviewed the staff report and asked the City Council for input on the 2012 legislative agenda. Councilmember McGlone stated Fairoak Avenue is out of the City's jurisdiction and asked if Anoka would share in the cost of a lobbyist to further the Highway 10 corridor. City Administrator Ulrich stated he has called the Anoka Manager about the option of a shared lobbyist; however, priorities need to be in place to assure Ramsey's interests are met. City Council Work Session / December 6, 2011 Page 9 of 12