Minutes - Council Work Session - 09/23/2021 - Joint

Home

options that would fit their needs. He stated that even though a portion of the site has been sold, they would still have sufficient space to fit the school building and regulation sized football field. He stated that if there is support from the City, they would continue to work on plans and bring them forward. Mr. Tossey stated that when he explained it to the Board of Directors, he used the concept of Friday night lights, noting that this would create a destination in the community which would support ancillary businesses. He stated that Ramsey and PACT have worked in partnership since 2004 and they would like to continue that. Councilmember Musgrove recognized that this is early in the process but noted that she likes the idea. She asked when this would be anticipated to begin construction if this is supported. Mr. Tossey stated that they would hope to be open by August of 2023, recognizing that is an ambitious timeline. Councilmember Riley asked if PACT would be stuck on a location within The COR. He stated that he supports the expansion but is hesitant on the location within The COR. Mr. Nyquist replied that they feel vested in The COR as they have been in their location since 2004. He stated that they do have other options they are looking at but would prefer this location. Councilmember Riley stated that he likes the idea but would be open to looking at other locations. Councilmember Heineman stated that it would make sense to have the PACT buildings near each other for parent drop off. He stated that bringing a school into that area would help to improve the local economy. He stated that the field would be a great attraction as well and would increase business activity. He stated that what may be lost in tax revenue, would be gained through additional customers for businesses. He stated that it would also be a draw for additional residents to come to Ramsey and would be part of the identity for Ramsey to have its own high school. He believed this is a great idea. EDA Chair Cords asked what other sites have been considered. Mr. Nyquist stated that he would rather not share those locations. Mr. Vang stated that they have reviewed 29 sites within a four-mile radius, which was then reduced to 11 and then to four. He stated that the City zoning is very restrictive and educational uses are not permitted uses on any site other than the site within The COR. He stated that if the location is moved too far from the original campus there would be additional challenges. Mr. Nyquist stated that there are some teachers that teach in both elementary and secondary and noted that there would be benefit to keeping the buildings close. City Council Special Work Session / September 23, 2021 Page 6 of 11