Minutes - Council Work Session - 09/03/2019 - Special

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Councilmember Musgrove stated that she would like to see if there is communication with ARAA to see if they would be okay with an increase or whether the organization is struggling to make enough money. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated that there is an annual meeting with ARAA each March and that idea could be brought up. Mayor LeTourneau stated that most likely the organization will say they do not have a lot of money. He agreed that the question could be asked. Councilmember Musgrove asked if there is a way to put out the word that donations would be welcome. Councilmember Heinrich asked if a conversation could be had with Anoka to ensure that the discussion is inline regarding rates. She asked if there is another soccer association in another community that could be used to compare rates. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood replied that in 2017 the City completed a comprehensive survey of how other cities interact and do business with their sports associations. He stated that staff found similar results to the same survey that was done 15 years prior, noting that the results showed that there was no way to do an equal comparison because each community handles that relationship different. He noted that staff speaks with Anoka staff on a weekly basis. City Administrator Ulrich stated that ARAA does really provide a service to the City in terms of recreation. He noted that the volunteer and fundraising provides a benefit to the community, which is why the City assists with maintenance of the fields. Councilmember Kuzma noted that ARAA did contribute $40,000 two years ago for dugouts. He stated that the organization does contribute to the park infrastructure. Councilmember Riley noted that ARAA also contributed towards the Elm Crest building. City Administrator Ulrich stated that at the last Board meeting for Nowthen fire service, staff was asked to provide additional information on the cost analysis and the contract details will come back before the City. He stated that QCTV is proposing to provide a $40,000 capital allocation, which is typically used for equipment. He referenced Youth First and the value of the contribution from Ramsey, specifically the in-kind contribution of the building and cash contribution. He noted that there are now four cities and perhaps the donation amount of the City should be reviewed. He stated that there has been a staff discussion related to memberships and supporting events, specifically how the Game Fair is supported in terms of police and public works and noted that relationship could be discussed further. He stated that staff can target six percent for a preliminary levy and then continued discussion can occur on both revenue and expenses. City Council Special Work Session/September 3, 2019 Page 14 of 17