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Citizen Input <br /> <br />Craig Miller, Architect for Amcor Precast, stated that the reason they are requesting the variance <br />is that they need the additional height in order to accommodate the equipment needed in the <br />manufacturing process. <br /> <br />Vice-Chairperson Kociscak inquired if there was any concern with the fact that the City of <br />Ramsey currently does not have the necessary emergency equipment. <br /> <br />Mr. Miller replied no. He stated that they manufacture using concrete and are always working <br />with non-combustible materials, plus the building will have a sprinkler system throughout. <br /> <br />Commissioner Sweet inquired if the Ramsey Fire Department is unable to assist in a fire, what <br />would keep Amcor from suing the City. <br /> <br />Bill Hoody, Amcor Precast, replied that they would be willing to sign any document the City <br />requested regarding the issue of fire safety. <br /> <br />Ms. Sweet inquired if Amcor would consider signing a hold harmless clause. <br /> <br />Mr, Miller replied that that might be a possibility, but could not speak for Amcor on that issue. <br /> <br />Vice-Chairperson Kociscak inquired if the City required a hold harmless agreement on the other <br />variances that were granted for exceeding the height restrictions. <br /> <br />Community Development Director Frolik replied no. <br /> <br />Director of Public Works/Fire Chief Kapler stated that the City has allowed for businesses to <br />exceed the height restriction in the past, but the height restrictions were put in place to assure that <br />the City could provide adequate fire protection in the City. He feels personally responsible if <br />something happens in a fire rescue situation. In regards to the statement that Amcor could sign a <br />hold harmless agreement with the City, that does not keep a person who might be injured or even <br />killed from suing the City if they are unable to be rescued because the City does not have the <br />appropriate equipment. He is responsible for the City and its residents and by exceeding the <br />height restriction he cannot provide adequate services. In the Fire protection business there is a <br />lot of"what ifs" and he commends Amcor for not having a fire in the 25 years they have been in <br />business, but if something does happen, then he would be responsible and presently the City <br />would not have the capabilities. Mr. Kapler explained that a sprinkler system is only designed to <br />contain fires, not put them out. He requested that the Board grant the variance contingent on the <br />Council including in their Capital Equipment plan the purchase of an aerial ladder truck. He <br />explained that when the hotel and senior complex were constructed, it was promised that an <br />aerial ladder truck would be purchased, but that still has not happened. <br /> <br />Board of Adjustment/May 1, 2001 <br /> Page 3 of 7 <br /> <br /> <br />