Minutes - Council Work Session - 01/24/2017

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Commissioner VanScoy stated that the past vision is documented in The COR vision framework, noting that each section has a summary that can be helpful in determining where the City has come from. Commissioner Surma stated that he does not see the vision going far enough out. He stated that he grew up in the development/construction business and watched buildings go up and down. He stated that often cities would follow what neighboring cities have done rather than being leaders. He stated that the land for the case tonight is far too valuable for the future of the City to be considered in this purchase agreement. He stated that the best location for that business would be near the medical examiner's office. Councilmember Shryock stated that she respects the view of Commissioner Surma as one community has been very successful in their vision while another continues to build and fill trying to keep up. Councilmember LeTourneau acknowledged the point made by Commissioner Surma that he had seen buildings go up and down. He used the example of a Minneapolis business that is no longer in business but the building is now being repurposed for another use. He stated that The COR needs to be built for what is right for the community, as there are variables the City cannot control in the future that cannot be predicted. Commissioner Bauer stated that he read that typically the third restaurant in a building is successful. He stated that the focus should be on long-range goals. Mayor Strommen referenced the comment that Ramsey will not get restaurants unless they are local and noted that is Ramsey's history in building businesses from members in the community and perhaps the City should focus on tapping that energy rather than looking outside the borders. Member Steffen agreed that the piece of land is the center of The COR and sadly there are pricing irregularities within The COR. He stated that a business will be attracted to the lesser priced land. He stated that the business model should be fluid as they will need to be able to react to proposals that come along that could benefit the City. Commissioner Surma noted that although you can have great planning, you cannot plan for the market changes. He noted that there are technology elements that are on the horizon to adequately plan for those elements. Commissioner Nosan stated that Commissioner Brauer has made the visioning process so much fun and commended him for his efforts, although he could not attend tonight. Mayor Strommen thanked everyone for their participation tonight. 3. TOPICS FOR FUTURE DISCUSSION 3.01: Review Future Topics/Calendar City Council Work Session/January 24,2017 Page 8 of 9