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Economic Development Manager Sullivan presented the staff report. He asked whether the EDA <br /> would be interested in offering a box lunch. This suggestion was made by one participant the past <br /> two years. <br /> Member Stewart noted that was one suggestion out of the 100 plus attendees and therefore she <br /> would not support adding that element. <br /> Member MacLennan stated that he does like the lunch and perhaps there would be an opportunity <br /> for a sponsorship for that element. He commented that it is not always easy to go to the clubhouse <br /> to get something to eat when you are on the course. <br /> Member Riley stated that he would lean towards following the existing format. He stated that <br /> there continues to be positive feedback about the dinner and the price of the event, therefore he <br /> would hate to take away from the dinner or increase the cost of the event. He stated that he would <br /> be open to the option if there was a sponsorship of that cost. <br /> Member Johnson stated that perhaps that is offered as an add-on option for registration and that <br /> way participants could make the choice on whether they would like to add that. <br /> Economic Development Manager Sullivan commented that while that sounds like a good concept, <br /> it would be difficult logistically. He stated that there could be an option to offer box lunches for <br /> purchase prior to the event but is unsure the course would want to do that without having solid <br /> numbers. He stated that he would prefer an all or nothing approach. <br /> Chair Olson agreed with the all or none approach. He stated that perhaps they could publicize that <br /> lunch will not be provided in the event flyer, but food would be available for purchase at the <br /> clubhouse. <br /> Member Wiyninger stated that personally he believes there would be benefit in pursuing a <br /> corporate sponsorship by a Ramsey business to determine if they would be willing to sponsor that <br /> lunch offering. He acknowledged the administrative burden as they would perhaps need to <br /> consider dietary restrictions. He agreed that the admission charge should not be raised in order to <br /> offer lunch. <br /> Chair Olson agreed that the City or EDA should not contribute additional funds towards lunch, nor <br /> should the participants. He echoed the notion that perhaps a business would be willing to sponsor <br /> a box lunch for the event. <br /> Economic Development Manager Sullivan stated that the registration form offers the opportunity <br /> for hole sponsorship or prize donations. He stated that staff does not solicit donations therefore <br /> asking for a sponsor would be a fundamental change as the event is meant to recognize and <br /> appreciate businesses. He also did not want to see businesses react negatively if one business was <br /> allowed to sponsor the lunch but perhaps another could not. He agreed that only one person <br /> requested this option. He agreed that staff could work with Northfork and perhaps patrons could <br /> purchase something in advance of their round. He noted that utilization of the clubhouse also <br /> financially benefits (The Links at)Northfork, a Ramsey business. <br /> Economic Development Authority/September 8, 2022 <br /> Page 2 of 9 <br />