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Ms. Skepper advised that Anoka County did not have economic powers until 2009 so that was <br />not an option until then. Since 2009, Anoka County has been working with cities but when <br />Ramsey was approached, it was not interested in participating. She believed now is a good <br />opportunity to access those funds. <br />Councilmember McGlone stated this option was introduced at the EDA level and he found it to <br />be a "bait and switch" on taxpayers because they were taxed for housing projects and now Anoka <br />County is coming up with new reasons and ways to spend the money. Councilmember McGlone <br />stated he would rather leave this money in bank until Ramsey has a housing need. He stated he <br />did not care for the program that Anoka County laid out so he is opposed and will continue to be <br />opposed. <br />Councilmember Strommen noted if the City opts into economic development activities, it will <br />have more flexibility in the programs it can choose. She asked whether there is a specific <br />program the City has to follow or if its EDA can make recommendations to address cuts its levy <br />has sustained. <br />Ms. Skepper stated the Anoka County HRA is a very reactive agency and waits for the City to <br />set the course then checks Statute to determine if it is a fundable project. <br />Councilmember Backous asked whether the Ramsey EDA has provided a recommendation. <br />Management Analyst Brama stated there were split feelings so the EDA took no action on this <br />item at its last meeting but wanted to talk about it again at its next meeting, which is scheduled <br />for this week Thursday. <br />Councilmember 13ackous asked why this matter is being considered by the Council tonight if it is <br />still under consideration by the EDA. <br />Management Analyst Brama explained this matter had been brought forward during the HRA <br />meeting and while the EDA could make a recommendation on the Anoka County's economic <br />development activities, it is a Council decision via adoption of resolutions. <br />Councilmember Backous stated he understands the Council makes the decisions but he relies on <br />recommendations from those appointed to the HRA. <br />Mayor Ramsey pointed out these are HRA dollars, not EDA dollars. He stated he supports this <br />option because the City has already undertaken EDA functions in The COR. <br />Deputy City Administrator/Finance Director Lund reviewed that when the HRA levy was <br />adopted in the budget meeting, it was with using Anoka County funds for COR activities and <br />those funds only qualify if economic development related. This matter was placed on tonight's <br />agenda because the Anoka County HRA will be meeting on October 23, 2012. <br />City Council Work Session / October 9, 2012 <br />Page 5 of 8 <br />