Minutes - Council - 09/13/2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Riley stated that the EDA was excited to potentially bring in an outside business and developer for this opportunity. He stated that overall the EDA is supportive of the idea. Councilmember Williams commented that the EDA had a robust discussion in closed session regarding the terms and noted that she would be happy to share those details in closed session. Councilmember Shryock stated that in concept this would address a number of things that the City is attempting to accomplish and would be a great addition to the parks and recreation facilities. She stated in that respect this would be a perfect fit. Councilmember Kuzma stated that this would be a destination business, which is great for the community and noted that soccer is a sport with a strong following. Councilmember Williams stated that this type of building would also be a great addition and could spur other similar developments. She noted that even if the user were to move on, this would be a great addition to the building stock in Ramsey. Motion by Councilmember LeTourneau, seconded by Councilmember Williams, to adjourn the meeting to closed session at 8:48 p.m. to discuss the purchase agreement. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Strommen, Councilmembers LeTourneau, Williams, Kuzma, Riley, and Shryock. Voting No: None. Absent: Councilmember Johns. The meeting returned to open session at 9:07 p.m. Asst. City Administrator/Economic Development Manager Brama stated that in the closed session the Council discussed a number of terms and staff will go back to Platinum Properties to continue negotiations. He stated that staff has the direction they need to move forward, noting that there was positive feedback and the Council looks forward to working with the applicants to make this project a reality. 7.14: Discuss Opportunity for Assistance from University of Minnesota's Center for Urban and Regional Affairs (CURA) to Complete Pending Land Use Studies and Strategic Plan Initiatives Community Development Director Gladhill reviewed the staff report and asked for input from the Council as to whether or not to submit a letter of intent to the Resilient Communities Project for consideration. Councilmember Kuzma stated that he appreciates the time staff has put into this but was not thrilled with the cost to hire interns and therefore would not support the action. Councilmember LeTourneau stated that he likes the innovation and different perspectives that would be provided as well as the fact that the skills the students have align with the projects in Ramsey but was concerned with the cost. He asked if the value gained would exceed the cost. City Council / September 13, 2016 Page 12 of 14