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Economic Development Manager Sullivan presented the staff report. <br />Chairperson Wiyninger invited the restaurant owner to speak. <br />Thao Do, King Baguette, commented that Economic Development Manager Sullivan has been <br />great to work with throughout this process. She recognized the growth in Ramsey and the lack of <br />restaurant choices offered in this market. She stated that this is a new concept she discovered <br />while on vacation in Florida, bringing Vietnamese food to Ramsey. She stated that her husband <br />has worked in Ramsey for 15 years, at Diamond Graphics, and their home is only 14 miles from <br />this location. She provided additional information on the food that will be offered (banh <br />sandwiches, pho, boba tea and other bakery items), noting that she will add items as they go and <br />explaining that they will offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner. <br />Member Stewart asked for more information on the customer experience. <br />Mrs. Do stated that they would like to provide the most convenient service for the customer, <br />offering quick drive-thru service, to go orders at the counter, as well as service at the tables with <br />servers. <br />Economic Development Manager Sullivan stated that this location is a little over 1,600 square feet <br />and asked if the business plan envisions expansion and growth. <br />Mrs. Do replied that originally, she desired 2,000 square feet, but in negotiation for the space they <br />decided on 1,600 square feet for now with the option to expand. <br />Chairperson Wiyninger stated that he feels a little torn on this as this concept is not a true full - <br />service restaurant, but it does speak to the spirit of what is desired in the community to have more <br />options for food service. He stated that he would feel comfortable with the 50 percent SAC and <br />WAC Loan option. <br />Member Johnson stated that she feels that this concept is the way restaurants are today when people <br />are more on the go. She stated that people often order food to go or have it delivered. She stated <br />that this location would still offer sit-down service and also incorporates a drive-thru. She stated <br />that this concept adds more options for consumers, which is a great thing and therefore she can <br />support the 70 percent option. <br />Member Stewart stated that she would agree that while the case may not hit all the boxes, there is <br />a desire to potentially expand in the future. She stated that she could support 55 percent option. <br />Member MacLennan asked the hours of operation. <br />Mrs. Do replied that she would be open seven days per week and would be open from 9 a.m. to 8 <br />p.m. <br />Economic Development Authority/ March 13, 2025 <br />Page 2 of 5 <br />