Minutes - Council - 07/10/2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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at all times be in full compliance with all applicable laws, ordinances and governmental regulations affecting the Building and Property" Councilmember Olson inquired about the nature of C.R. Foods. City Attorney Goodrich replied they operate Ralph's Gun and Pawn. Councilmember Olson stated she would not be in favor of a used car lot on this property. City Attorney Goodrich indicated staff would attempt to negotiate with the new tenant. Councilmember Jeffrey noted that commercial retail sales could include vehicles if you take it to the limit. He stated he likes the idea of cleaning up the property and noted it is the net proceeds that are forwarded to the Metropolitan Council. Councilmember Strommen indicated if the improvements are due to a change in the nature of the business she is not sure that is the City's responsibility to help pay for improvements like the changing of the lights. The tenant is adding code issues by expanding the business. City Attorney Goodrich pointed out that the current code issues are the City's responsibility. Councilmember Dehen stated he is perplexed as to why this is coming forward when there is not information about the corporation and it is not known how long the corporation has been in existence. One of the contingencies included in the staff report is the receipt of adequate financial information. There is not information as to whether the City wants this business or not, how long they have been in business, and what they have done in the past. He would like more information on this to see if this is appropriate and does not feel that it should be in front of the Council at this point. Interim City Administrator Nelson indicated the City previously approved a pawn broker's license and through that process background checks were completed. The point about tonight is that Mr. Nissen has sold his business to this individual and they need to work on getting the lease assigned. The request tonight is for Council to authorize staff to assign the lease to the new tenant of the building. The background work on TJWB, LLC has been completed in regard to the pawn broker's license. Staff will be acquiring additional financial information from TJWB, LLC. Councilmember Dehen noted the statement in the staff report that it appears as if the new owner is willing to work with the City to bring this property up to code. He stated this is very vague as to what the tenant will do at all. He asked if the tenant has been informed of what needs to be done. Community Development Director Trudgeon stated the tenant has been informed where paving is needed. He was agreeable with that, in addition to expanding his business. There are not any set plans or signed documents, just a willingness of the business owner to work with the City. Staff is pleased with that and wants to give some benefit of the doubt and try to work with the tenant. There is vagueness as to the improvements. Staff would need to do additional work to City Council / July 10,2007 Page 13 of 24