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Councilmember Tossey questioned whether the lease has a buyout. <br />City Attorney Goodrich said there is not. <br />Councilmember Tossey said he would not vote in favor of this project because the City should <br />not own the property and should not invest money into it. The Met Council and MnDOT offered <br />a freeway six years ago and he is tired of holding these types of properties. <br />Mayor Ramsey stated if the church paid for the sprinkler system in exchange for rent, he would <br />approve it. The only positive part is that Youth First would have a sprinkler system. Mayor <br />Ramsey said he didn't like that the City would bring money for the sprinkler system, and <br />possibly not have someone in the building all four years. <br />Councilmember Elvig commented that this use wouldn't bring that much business to the City. <br />Councilmember Strommen mentioned it would bring and keep people in the community and <br />strike a balance while waiting for Highway 10. <br />Councilmember Wise asked if the church would be able to get a loan and pay for the sprinkler <br />system. <br />Councilmember McGlone cautioned the Council against setting a precedent, noting there are <br />other churches along that stretch of highway that have funded their own building and needs. <br />Deputy City Administrator Nelson noted the moratorium is intended for new construction so this <br />would be an allowed use. <br />City Administrator Ulrich pointed out there are two issues: the City is a potential landlord, and <br />the City is being asked to be a banker. The City does not want to be a banker, but will lease the <br />property if the church comes up with the money. The City does not want to finance the <br />improvement. <br />Gary Kyka with United Methodist Church stated there are those that have offered a guarantee for <br />the new church. <br />Councilmember Backous said he would agree if that could be brought forth in writing. <br />Councilmembers Wise, Elvig, and Strommen said they would support the project with <br />conditional points. <br />Mayor Ramsey opposed the project. <br />3) Consider Changes to Sidewalk Snow Removal Policy <br />Street Supervisor Reimer reviewed the staff report. <br />City Council Work Session / October 11, 2011 <br />Page 4 of 6 <br />