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The Council reached consensus to move forward with the current legislative priorities and to <br />monitor additional issues as they arise. <br /> <br />2.05: Consider the Ramsey Christmas Market <br /> <br />Mayor Heineman proposed a conceptual idea for a Ramsey Christmas Market as a potential winter <br />community event. He described it as a seasonal, family-friendly event featuring themed vendor <br />chalets, local food and retail stalls, entertainment, holiday decorations, and activities like visits <br />with Santa and ice skating, weather permitting. Possible locations discussed included near the <br />amphitheater or the upcoming waterfront area. The mayor highlighted opportunities for local <br />business participation, sponsorships, reusable branded cups, and making the event financially <br />neutral through vendor fees and sponsorships. He also addressed logistical factors, including stall <br />storage, power requirements, event duration, and operational planning. Mayor Heineman <br />suggested that, if the Council agrees, the idea could be handed over to Parks and Recreation staff <br />for further assessment and planning for a future year. <br /> <br />Councilmember Peters expressed general support for the concept but cautioned that planning <br />should not interfere with ongoing priorities, including the water park project. <br /> <br />Councilmember Olson expressed strong enthusiasm for the proposed Christmas market, citing <br />positive experiences with similar events elsewhere and noting that hosting it near the water park <br />would enhance the area's appeal, particularly with the planned amenities. He encouraged the City <br />to pursue the concept. <br /> <br />Councilmember Riley stated that while the concept is interesting, consideration should be given <br />to staff capacity, noting existing demands related to Happy Days and other events. He suggested <br />evaluating the proposal's feasibility and requested staff input on next steps before proceeding. <br /> <br />Councilmember Buscher expressed support for the Christmas market concept, provided it can be <br />implemented without placing undue strain on staff. She noted similarities to existing events such <br />as the art fair and farmers market, suggesting the model could be replicated. She described the idea <br />as positive for the community and thanked the mayor for the presentation. <br /> <br />Mayor Heineman directed staff to share the presentation with Parks and Recreation and to conduct <br />a feasibility review of the proposed Christmas market concept. He emphasized the need to be <br />mindful of staff capacity and existing priorities and indicated that an initial assessment should be <br />manageable before bringing recommendations back to the Council. <br /> <br />3. TOPICS FOR FUTURE DISCUSSION <br /> <br />3.01: Review Future Topics/ Calendar <br /> <br />Noted. <br /> <br />4. MAYOR / COUNCIL / STAFF INPUT <br /> <br />City Council Work Session / January 13, 2026 <br />Page 7 of 8 <br />