Agenda - Council - 11/07/2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mayor Ramsey stated people often forget that about one-third of Ramsey's children attend Elk River schools so maybe Elk River should be allowed. He indicated he understands the Lion's issue and request and would not be opposed to striking "City of Anoka" from the ordinance. Martin Schindel, Ramsey Lions, reviewed City Code provision that grandfathers organizations and asked if one of those grandfathered organizations would be allowed to expand to sites where Ramsey Lions are currently located. He stated Ramsey Lions is primarily concerned with the grandfathering clause and is asking for an amendment similar to Anoka's language. Councilmember Elvig stated he is willing to restrict expansion of grandfathered organizations if they are not located in Ramsey. City Attorney Goodrich advised that could be done. Mr. Kujawa stated if another charity with an office in Ramsey wants to expand into pull -tabs, the Ramsey Lions does not want to stop them. But, the Ramsey Lions would want to stop an organization from outside of Ramsey that wants to expand into pull -tabs. He explained that the Ramsey Lions can only go into an Anoka location after all Anoka organizations say they are not interested. The Ramsey Lions wants our local charities to have that same treatment. Councilmember McGlone noted that "first right of refusal" is not what the Ramsey Lions are requesting. Mr. Kujawa agreed and indicated they are suggesting that Ramsey use the Anoka language so an outside organization is not allowed into Ramsey's establishments unless no Ramsey organizations are interested. Finance Officer Lund clarified that the ordinance passed in 2007 does not include "City of Anoka" in its language. In addition, the Anoka Ice Arena could only qualify to operate in the City of Ramsey by submitting a list of Ramsey students using the arena. City Administrator Ulrich stated the issue is to give precedence to local organizations. He indicated staff will review the ordinance language to place Ramsey organizations in the fist tier and others in a second tier. Councilmember Backous asked how "local" will be defined since Ramsey's children benefit from Anoka and Elk River sports that may not be officed in Ramsey. He stated he agrees with the concept of first benefiting local charities. Councilmember Strommen stated the City will have to think it through because an organization without a place of business in Ramsey may still benefit Ramsey's residents. She noted there is also a requirement for spending within trade area. Councilmember Strommen suggested this item come back for consideration after additional staff research. City Council Work Session / October 25, 2011 Page 3 of 10