05-04-1992 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . City Council Minutes May 4, 1992 Page 3 Patrick Klaers, City Administrator responded that the letter was written to indicate the City Council's support for commercial development in the area and not for anyone particular development. The City Administrator further indicated that the City has not endorsed a particular project, nor has the City approved any project. John Weicht, a partner in the proposed development, indicated that Cub Foods has signed the final agreement papers on the proposal and have indicated their intention to come to Elk River. Paul Bell indicated his concern regarding the City assisting incoming businesses. He stated that he loses his advantage when the City is involved in assisting new businesses. Gary Santwire requested the Council to withdraw the letter sent to Mr. Dickenson regarding the friendly condemnation and further requested the City to not get involved in subsidizing commercial development. David Decker stated that he had the same concern as Paul Bell. He stated that friendly condemnation is substantial assistance and gives the edge to other developers. John Weicht indicated that Bill Dickenson signed the sales agreement based on the letter of condemnation. Peter Beck, City Attorney, indicated that the letter does not start condemnation proceedings. It is only an indication of the City's intent to acquire the property. He further stated that the there is no liability to the City because of the letter. Peter Beck further advised the City Council that there has been no financial assistance offered or granted to this project. Vice Mayor Holmgren stated that the night the letter was authorized by the Council, there was no thought by the Council regarding a certain development. He further stated it was not the intention of the City Council to give anyone an advantage over other developers. He further stated that he did not want to make a decision on this issue because there are two Councilmembers absent from this meeting. Councilmember Kropuenske indicated that the letter to Mr. Dickenson may reflect more of an endorsement than intended by the City Council. He stated that the City Council was looking at the fact that the roads and utilities must be installed in the area before any development occurs. He further indicated that if development is going to occur in the area, the City must look at these issues in order to make the development happen correctly. Councilmember Dietz indicated that he would take all that was said tonight into consideration before making a decision. COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ MOVED TO CONTINUE THE DISCUSSION ON THIS ISSUE UNTIL THE MAY 18, 1992, CITY COUNCIL MEETING. COUNCILMEMBER KROPUENSKE SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 3-0.