Laserfiche WebLink
Councilmember Elvig noted Ramsey is trying to be a boutique and a destination that provides <br />something different; this Chinese relationship leads into that and into international type trade. <br />He indicated he will be trying to set up a meeting with the manufacturing businesses in the City <br />to discuss the opportunities this would offer. He stated he can be a visionary in his own industry, <br />but he would like to speak with other industries to determine what they are looking for and have <br />those ideas in mind if he were to be included in this delegation. He stated if he were to be <br />involved in the delegation he would like to pay his own way to avoid any possibility of a conflict <br />of interest. <br /> <br />Chairperson Strommen stated she understands the benefits of this and is not opposed to it, but it <br />still needs to be determined who the right people are to be involved in the delegation, and <br />whether it is necessary for three individuals to be involved in the delegation. She is not inclined <br />to support this until that has been determined. <br /> <br />Mayor Gamec stressed the importance of a coordination of the goals of the community and the <br />State, as the delegation will be representing the State as well as the City. <br /> <br />Councilmember Elvig suggested a round table discussion be organized with selected <br />manufacturers in the City. <br /> <br />Chairperson Strommen concurred. She suggested the possibility of the EDA sponsoring this <br />type of discussion, utilizing the list used for the business networking meetings. <br /> <br />Councilmember Elvig suggested a member of Ramsey's business community be included in the <br />delegation. <br /> <br />Mr. Haegg replied that is an excellent idea, but there is somewhat of a time crunch involved in <br />this trip. He suggested questions be obtained from the business community, with answers <br />brought back and shared with them. <br /> <br />Motion by Councilmember Elvig, seconded by Mayor Gamec, to recommend that the City <br />Council authorize Council Contingency Fund to fund the three person China Delegation visit in <br />an amount not-to-exceed $4,500, with the caveat of a round-table discussion with area business <br />people. <br /> <br />Further discussion: Chairperson Strommen stated she will not support this motion due to the <br />need for further information to be presented before going forward. City Administrator Norman <br />indicated he has contacted Jim Lasher and he will be checking his schedule to determine his <br />availability for the delegation. <br /> <br />Motion carried. Voting Yes: Councilmembers Elvig and Mayor Gamec. Voting No: <br />Chairperson Strommen. Absent: Councilmember Jeffrey. <br /> <br />Finance Committee / April 11, 2006 <br /> Page 4 of 5 <br /> <br /> <br />