Agenda - Council - 11/07/2022 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

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