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

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Councilmember Heinrich asked if Councilmembers have had time to review the Youth First information, specifically the contribution level that Ramsey is making. She noted that .contribution is much higher than the other cities utilizing Youth First. She stated that the City owns the building, which means taxes are not generated, and rent is not charged therefore the contribution is much higher than the cash contribution the City makes. She asked for input on the contribution that the City is making. She stated that Anoka provides accounting and other services, but that is not equal to the building cost. Mayor LeTourneau stated that he would prefer to avoid putting undue hardship on Youth First. He stated that it seems the organization is doing well, but they have had a long history of struggling to provide that service. He stated that he would welcome Councilmember Heinrich to open discussions with the organization to determine how a better spread could be made between the cities utilizing the service. Councilmember Heinrich stated that it has been a difficult torch to carry and the conversations have not been easy. She stated that she is not getting the information she requested from the Chair and Treasurer in terms of donations and in-kind contributions. Mayor LeTourneau stated that seems uncharacteristic and perhaps staff could assist in gathering that information. Councilmember Musgrove stated that it would be nice to see some of that financing information. Mayor LeTourneau stated that it would be helpful to see that financial information. He stated that the mission of the organization is solid, and it fills a necessary void. He stated that in most cases the organization does not do well financially. He stated that when donations are made to a charity it is often helpful to see the amount of each dollar that is used for the program and the amount that is used for administration. City Administrator Ulrich stated that he would make the request for the information. Councilmember Kuzma stated that in years past different groups the Council supports have come into a meeting to provide background information on their mission. He stated that perhaps that would be helpful with the new Councilmembers. He stated that Youth First provides a valuable service to children after school that may not have the support otherwise. He stated that he supports the mission of Youth First. City Administrator Ulrich stated that could be done. He stated that staff recommends that the relationship with Anoka County Mediation be terminated as that service has not been found helpful. Councilmember Heinrich stated that she supports that action. She asked if Police Chief Katers supports that recommendation. City Council Special Work Session/September 3, 2019 Page 15 of 17