Agenda - Council - 03/25/2025 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Community Development Director Hanson said the background check is done at the time of the application and is only done again if the property owner requests it. Councilmember Buscher said she does not agree with the discussed changes to the policy and shared that she trusts that Staff has the knowledge and expertise on this topic. The consensus of the Council was to move forward with the draft policy, removing the requirement for property owner background checks and not inspecting closets unless there is a reported issue or utility access is through the closet. 2.03: Old Town Hall Discussion - Renovation Quotes - EDA Recommendation - History - Next Steps Economic Development Manager Sullivan reviewed the Staff report in regard to the old Town Hall and renovation quotes. Councilmember Buscher shared that she thinks it is worthwhile to invest in this property as it is one of the only buildings in the City that ties Ramsey back to its history. She noted that it would not take a lot to make it something great. She said if they spent some time looking into this they could likely find grant opportunities or private donors who would be willing to invest in it. Councilmember Specht shared the idea that the building could be something that they rent out. He agreed that it is worth investing in to preserve the history of it. Economic Development Manager Sullivan shared that they have spent $33,000 recently to secure the building so far. He noted that the breakeven point for renting this building would happen in about 14 years. He shared the concerns of the EDA that if they were to do all of these renovations and improvements then rent this location out to a tenant and they leave after a few years, this would cause a deficit. He said the tenant who expressed interest in the building back in 2021 is still interested in the building for her boutique. He explained that they have five parking spots for this building, as well as an agreement with the bank to use this parking lot when the bank is not open. He added that he has had preliminary discussions with the bank president and there may be parking spots that could be allocated every day within business hours. Councilmember Stewart asked where they would find the money to renovate this building. Economic Development Manager Sullivan said they do not have a funding source yet, but they could look into grant opportunities. Council Specht recommended everyone go see the inside of this building, so they understand what they are working with. The consensus of the Council was to move forward and continue discussions on the renovations for the old City Hall. 3. TOPICS FOR FUTURE DISCUSSION City Council Work Session / March 11, 2025 Page 9 of 10