Agenda - Council Work Session - 02/26/2013

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CC Work Session 2. 2. Meeting Date: 02/26/2013 Submitted For: Patrick Brama By: Patrick Brama, Administrative Services Title: Discuss the use of LCD TVs/Monitors in the Ramsey Municipal Center. Background: Discussion occurred in late 2011 regarding the installation of LCD TVs /Monitors in the Ramsey Municipal Center to be used for programming (similar to the community sign on Highway 10) and for private advertising. Revenues from private advertising were slated to be given to the Ramsey Foundation; with the goal of developing a consistent annual funding source. NOTE: The Ramsey Foundation is the organization that originally brought this initiative forward to the Council. Since the introduction of this case in July of 2011, the Council reviewed two subsequent cases (August and December 2011). Between the departure of Heidi Nelson (previous project lead) and Dean Busch (previous IT director) and the recent election, a number of changes have occurred since 2011; and this topic remains unclear and unguided. Therefore, the purpose of this case is to reintroduce this discussion to the Council and take direction on how to move forward. Observations /Alternatives: Below is a summary of previous Council discussions and direction. See attached documentation for reference. 07/26/2011: Introduction of case to install one screen in the lobby for closed circuit programing. Revenues would be raised via private advertising and would be dedicated to the Ramsey Foundation. The possibility of installing a second screen in the hallway near the Anoka County License Bureau was introduced; but would need more discussion. Council approved a $9,500 expenditure with the QCTV fund as the source. 08/23/2011: Staff asked the council for direction on who would be responsible for management of this system: coordinate advertisements, create ads, collect money, etc. No clear direction came out of this meeting. Staff was directed to develop a policy on the use of display areas and advertising monitors. 12/16/2011: Council considered and adopted a policy to guide the use of display areas and advertising monitors in the municipal center. MOVING FORWARD In order to move this project forward, Staff is requesting Council direction on the items listed below. Today, Staff would ask for direction on items one and two only. 1. Generally, is there an appetite for this project? (regardless of the Ramsey Foundation) Project would include three new TV's /monitors located in the Municipal Center. Said monitors could be utilized for a number of functions. Depending on a number of variables, the capital cost would range between $6,500- $13,000. 2. What is the purpose of the TVs /Monitors (i.e. is it for the Foundation or for general City use)? In general two options exist: A. General City Use: Run QCTV program via cable and /or custom closed circuit programing to three TVs. Capital Cost Estimate: $6000 - $13,000