Agenda - Council - 01/27/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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the Anoka County Union Herald, and legal services. The two-year term appointments remained the same. 2.02: Consider Support for GAP Funding Assistance on an Anoka Ramsey Athletic Association Facility Project City Administrator Hagen introduces the topic of support for gap funding assistance for the Anoka Ramsey Athletic Association (ARAA) facility project. Economic Development Manager Sean Sullivan and Josh Shelling from ARAA present the project's history and current status. The project includes a 100,000-square-foot building for multi- use courts, with plans for a land swap with PSD. Mr. Shelling outlined the project's financial needs and potential benefits, including increased space for sports programs and possible economic development around the facility. The Council discussed the financial assistance options, including a $2 million loan and potential fee waivers, with a consensus on a $2 million loan and up to $200,000 in fee assistance. Councilmember Riley stated that he was more comfortable with offering a loan rather than forgiving fees, noting that the fees cover legitimate city costs and have historically been considered reasonable. He indicated a preference for more favorable loan terms instead. Mayor Heineman proposed a financing package consisting of a $2 million loan with a 120-month term and up to $200,000 in fee or service assistance, with the understanding that no fee assistance would be provided for a future Phase Two and that full fees would apply at that time. He noted agreement with concerns about fee forgiveness. Still, he emphasized the City's negotiating position and the potential community benefits of the project, including economic activity, local business support, and increased use of city resources. Economic Development Manager Sullivan clarified that the fees presented apply to the entire 10- acre development and that no additional costs would be assessed for Phase Two. He explained that the proposal would defer the Phase One fees until completion of Phase Two, emphasizing that this was a clarification of timing rather than a change in total costs. Mayor Heineman acknowledged that the fees apply to a single parcel and phase and that there would be no opportunity to recoup costs in a later phase. He noted that the proposal would need to be adjusted in light of this clarification and indicated that the outlined terms would serve as a starting point for further discussion. Councilmember Specht expressed support for the proposed $2 million loan and stated a preference for meeting the applicant's request. He noted that additional assistance could be considered if available through existing funds without increasing taxes. He emphasized his long-standing support for the project and highlighted its potential return on investment, including attracting residents and businesses and strengthening the city's identity. City Council Work Session / January 13, 2026 Page 2 of 8