Laserfiche WebLink
Gladhill asked the Council whether this use fits within the City's long -term vision for this land <br />and if not, would it be a consideration for an interim period of time. <br />Karl Janzen, Ramsey Raceway, presented a proposal to relocate Ramsey Raceway. He stated <br />their business has done well and they have outgrown the current location. It was felt that a larger <br />location would attract more spectators and competitors in addition to providing needed parking. <br />He asked for the Council's input on that option. <br />Mayor Strommen opened the discussion to the Council and requested comment. <br />Councilmember LeTourneau stated it is encouraging to hear that Ramsey Raceway has been <br />doing well and he appreciates its continued interest to stay in Ramsey. Councilmember <br />LeTourneau stated his concern relates to the existing appearance. Because of that, he does not <br />support a gateway location or one near residential use. He noted Bowers Drive residents have <br />expressed concern related to noise and he thinks Alpaca Estates will share that concern. Because <br />of that, he would prefer another location without the close proximity to residential. <br />Mr. Janzen stated that from Acapulco, during a race, the noise could hardly be heard. He stated <br />the Planning Commission had that same concern; however, the noise of cars and trucks on <br />Armstrong Boulevard and Highway 10 is louder than the noise being generated by Ramsey <br />Raceway. He clarified this is not a typical racetrack and is more similar to having a lawnmower <br />running. <br />Councilmember LeTourneau stated he would be interested in learning if there are current noise <br />readings from Ramsey Raceway. <br />Community Development Director Gladhill stated sound readings can be taken to develop a <br />baseline. He noted that any operation will have to abide by PCA established noise guidelines. <br />Mr. Janzen invited the Council to attend a night of racing to experience how low the noise level <br />is. <br />Councilmember Johns stated Mr. Janzen had indicated that the new site, if permitted, would <br />offer opportunity to expand. She asked if that means the track would be enlarged or the hours <br />extended. <br />Mr. Janzen stated the track would not be larger but they would have more parking spaces and <br />during the winter months, could accommodate racing of kiddy snowmobiles. He stated there is <br />currently not much opportunity to race smaller -sized snowmobiles. <br />Councilmember Riley asked if other Ramsey sites or private sites have been considered that <br />could offer a permanent home. <br />Mr. Janzen stated they looked at other property within Ramsey but the price of the land makes it <br />not financially feasible. He stated they also looked at the Anoka County Fair property and <br />Sherburne County Fair property; however, other events tear up the track so it would have to be <br />City Council Work Session / July 22, 2014 <br />Page 2 of 10 <br />