Agenda - Council - 08/25/2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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discussion was needed before Staff would be comfortable bringing forward a lease amendment. Observations/Alternatives: ALTERNATIVES 1. Invite M&G Trailer Sales to bring forward a lease amendment The Council could provide this direction knowing a larger policy discussion is needed in the future. And, make this an isolated decision versus comprehensive policy direction. However, this decision will result in the expanded use into early 2019. And, Staff would expect potential future requests (from other businesses), to site this case (from an equity perspective). Attached are reference maps of various City owned properties that either have leases today, or could in the future. The lease would result in permanent improvements. M&G has indicated a willingness to pave or improve their leased area, and provide the City with an escrow to remove at the time they vacate the property. M&G is a thriving/ growing Ramsey business. They have a good reputation in the community (for their customer service and products). They expect their growth to continue --they are the largest trailer dealership in the State (based on volume of sales). NOTE: the proposed lease will require land use/ zoning review. Staff anticipates the need to address screening, surfacing, storm water, emergency access, and other items. If the request comes forward for an expansion utilizing a gravel parking surface, an amendment to the existing Interim Use Permit will be necessary. The request will also require the approval of the Lower Rum River Watershed Management Organization, and requirements for stormwater management. 2. Do not invite M&G Trailer Sales to bring forward a lease amendment The Council could utilize this request as the "starting point" for new policy direction to help improve the image/appearance of the Highway 10 corridor. Staff anticipates similar requests to periodically come forward for the foreseeable future (about lx per year). 3. Request additional information/ additional discussion before this request is addressed The Council may not be comfortable providing direction now, and may need additional information. It should be noted, this business has indicated they would like to move forward with a lease amendment ASAP. They are also in the process of securing an alternative permanent, long term location, in the City of Ramsey. They would like to use this lease to fill the gap, from now until they can secure their permanent location. What are the benefits/ drawbacks of expanding leasable space on City owned property for outside sales/ display? (+) tax exempt property begins paying property taxes (+) job growth likely (+) supporting a local business with a positive reputation, and a desire to secure a permanent location in Ramsey (+) M&G is a community supporter (Happy Days+) (-) increases safety issues along U.S. Highway 10, conflicts with the U.S. Highway 10 Access Planning Study (i.e. elimination of accesses) (-) doesn't address image/ reputation concerns for City of Ramsey (-) potentially conflicts with City strategic plan (-) potentially extends unintentional precedence for use of City owned land Funding Source: NA Recommendation: NA Action: