05-06-2013 CCM - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Minutes Page 6 May 6, 2013 ----------------------------- Mr. Barnhart stated the Chief had concerns with the safety of kids crossing School Street to access the store. Councilmember Westgaard stated he is not sure he likes the idea of this corner being the location for a gas station. He reviewed the past ownership history of the property and stated he would like to hold out to see if they can get business at this location that falls under the current zoning for the property. Councilmember Motin concurred and further expressed concern with kids crossing the street at all hours of the day. He also noted there could be higher safety risks with peak time hours and school bus traffic. Councilmember Wilson agreed. Brian DuPrem, applicant - Stated his company has been looking for sites in Elk River but is having trouble finding a location due to things such as access issues with the county roads. He further thanked Council for their consideration. Mayor Dietz concurred with rest of the Council. He further stated he appreciates the Casey stores and would like to see them in Elk River but is hesitant with this location. 10.2 Council Liaison Role Mr. Portner presented the staff report. He noted the policy allows for participation and open discussion but doesn't allow advocacy for personal opinions. I Ie stated the Council could set term limits stating they can't serve more than two consecutive years with a specific commission. He stated the advantage to this would be when new Councilmembers begin their terms, they get a chance to be considered for the various commissions but the con may be that a Counciltnember may not care about the particular commission they are serving on. Councihmember Motin stated be is still not comfortable with allowing input by a Councilmember. He stated if they are stating a position, they are advocating, but sharing a personal opinion. He stated it is not intended that a liaison become an expert in the commission's field but to be a go- between. He stated be liked the idea of rotating because it gives an opportunity for a fresh review. Mayor Dietz stated he likes the policy as presented. Councilmember Westgaard stated he is not sure term limits will prevent opinions but they may be good for getting a new look. He stated if there are situations that need to be addressed they need to be brought out into the open and discussed in a professional manner. Councilmember Wilson stated he is agreeable to the policy as presented but he is unsure about term lengths. Council consensus was to approve the policy in the staff report, send it to commissions for comment, and then bring it back for final Council approval. Councilmember Motin stated he would like the commissions to hear about the term limits so they can provide feedback on them also.