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

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Mr. Tossey stated that they have considered adding to the PACT name to clarify the location in Ramsey within the name. Planning Commissioner Gengler stated that when she first reviewed the request, she was not sure this was the best use for the space. She asked if there have been conversations about shared facilities; whether the campus would be closed or whether there would be opportunity for community and athletic groups to share the facility. Mr. Nyquist confirmed that they are open to sharing the amenities with community groups, such as the auditorium and athletic areas. He noted that they have been in discussion with ARAA to get input on the types of spaces that group would be interested in for their needs. Planning Commissioner VanScoy stated that there was discussion of a split campus and people moving between the sites. He asked how pedestrian safety would be addressed. Mr. Nyquist stated that in a typical day students would remain within their building. He stated that for after school activities there would be a crossing guard to assist with crossing. Councilmember Specht stated that he believes there would be community and/or business use interest in using the auditorium. City Administrator Ulrich stated that the project would rely on the purchase of private property along with the City owned property. He noted that if the Council agrees with the concept, they could continue to work out the details through a staff review process. He stated that the cost and benefits to the City would be determined through that process and shared with the Council. Economic Development Manager Sullivan asked if the group would like to discuss the other proposal. He stated that he has an active development proposal that would like to place the property under purchase agreement. He stated that if the desire is to move forward with PACT, he would like to provide that direction to the other proposer. Councilmember Riley asked for details on the other proposal, whether it is a concept or whether there are businesses attached. Economic Development Manager Sullivan stated that Java Companies submitted the proposal. He stated that Java has spoken with a number of businesses that are interested including a coffee business and carwash. He stated that a restaurant and general retailer are also shown in the concept. He noted that a four-story hotel was also shown in the concept, although he was not fully supportive of that option in that location. City Administrator Ulrich stated that this would not have to be an either/or situation. He noted that perhaps staff could work with both groups on locating within The COR. He stated that perhaps with flexibility they could accomplish both retail and a high school campus within The COR. City Council Special Work Session / September 23, 2021 Page 8 of 11