Minutes - Council - 05/11/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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is a great example of a vision that has not yet been met in a traditional Main Street with more unique businesses. He commented that Ramsey has a great balance of rural and suburban throughout the different sections of the community. He stated that the City should come to terms with what its identity is and what can truly come to be within The COR. He noted that as time has gone on, exceptions continue to be made that go away from the vision of creating that Main Street vision for Sunwood Drive. He stated that these would be long-term commitments, and no one can say what Sunwood will look like in even five years. He stated that there are currently over 80 signs between Armstrong and the Anoka border. He stated that his fear would be that this would be one more exception to what people want and expect in The COR. He stated that he can see the value of what Champlin has done, noting that entire revenue has been earmarked for use in parks and trails. He stated that if this goes forward, he would want those funds earmarked for a specific use. He stated that his concern would not be with the vendor but the concept in general and whether it fits with the vision for The COR. He stated that perhaps Clear Channel could come back to the table and could agree to remove some existing billboards in return for having this digital opportunity. Councilmember Musgrove suggested that the revenue be used for road improvements. Councilmember Woestehoff stated that he does not disagree that roads need work but there is a secure funding source in place for that and would instead suggest an EDA related use. Councilmember Specht commented that he believes this is a good idea that would provide revenue and benefit to businesses. Motion by Councilmember Specht, seconded by Councilmember Howell, to Adopt Resolution #21-131 Approving Selection of Dynamic Display Billboard Vendor for Retail Advertising on Highway 10 Near the COR. Further discussion: Councilmember Musgrove asked for details on what this action would do and what the next steps would be. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill replied that this would commit the City to reduce the number of vendors from three to one to continue negotiations. He stated that this would come back when appropriate but did not have a timeline for that. He noted that additional work would also occur related to review of the Code and discussions with the Planning Commission. Councilmember Musgrove asked if Chairperson Steffen feels that adequate input was provided from the Council tonight. EDA Chairperson Steffen confirmed that he has heard the comments from the Council tonight. He stated that while there would be a desire to have a Main Street like Anoka or Stillwater, he would ask how long the City waits for that to happen before trying something else. He agreed that the sign would not solve all the problems, but it would provide another tool. He stated that this company is excited to work with the City and has the experience to assist staff in developing the right language in ordinance. A roll call vote was performed: Councilmember Heineman aye Councilmember Woestehoff nay Councilmember Specht aye City Council / May 11, 2021 Page 14 of 20