Minutes - Council - 01/26/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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7. COUNCIL BUSINESS 7.01: Adopt Resolution #21-027 Approving Request for Interest (RFI) for a Dynamic Display Billboard for Retail Advertising on Highway 10 Near The COR Economic Development Manager Sullivan reviewed the staff report and recommendation of the EDA that the City Council begin a process seeking interest in construction of a dynamic display billboard on Highway 10. Councilmember Riley referenced the cost of the sign and asked if that would be funded through private investment rather than by the City. Economic Development Manager Sullivan confirmed that the City would ask the developer to incur the cost. Councilmember Woestehoff asked if the sign would meet the current requirements for average signage if it were located on private property. Economic Development Manager Sullivan stated that included in the RFI there is language related to adjusting or working within the sign ordinance. He commented that he would imagine that the City would need to potentially tweak the regulation if it makes sense. Councilmember Musgrove stated that she believes this action would be premature. She asked if the plan would be for this to be located on private or public land. Economic Development Manager Sullivan commented that the City would be asking these companies to provide suggestions as to the best placement of the sign. He stated that the goal would be to have companies present information that the City could evaluate, and this would not commit the City to any action. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill stated that the design process for Highway 10 will provide a better understanding of the right-of-way needs, which could also create opportunities. He stated that he understands the concern but recognized that this process would take time and the right-of- way needs should be known by that time. Mayor Kuzma commented that he saw the presentation at the EDA meeting, and this would really help the businesses in Ramsey to have that additional exposure opportunity and therefore he would be interested in receiving proposals. Councilmember Musgrove asked if it would be more favorable to change the restrictions for business signage rather than having those businesses pay for space on a billboard. She asked if the sign ordinance is too restrictive. Mayor Kuzma stated that the EDA did not discuss that and instead focused on what the dynamic sign could bring. He commented that the sign would sell to national chains but would also make advertising available on a scale that small businesses could support. He stated that this process City Council / January 26, 2021 Page 4 of 13