03-24-1986 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Minutes March 24, 1986 Page Two . 3) The possibility of a parking ramp being included in the project. 4) The dimensions of legal parking space requirements (10 ft. x 20 ft. for a regular space, 12 ft. x 20 ft. for handicapped). 5) If MSA funds were to be used for improvements on Jackson Avenue in the future, MSA standards would require parallel parking and not angle parking as shown, creating fewer spaces available. Discussion was carried on regarding the municipal utilities operation, the value of the existing land and structure, and whether or not the proposed project would be financially feasible if additional costs were incurred to acquire the utilites property. Mr. Wuornos indicated that the developer would be reviewing these costs when they were available to make a determination. Discussion was carried on regarding the process involved in creating a tax increment district and the possible impact of legislative changes. Council- member Gunkel indicated that it was her understanding that the tax increment financing tool was originally set up for projects of this nature and perhaps the criteria for a project such as this one would remain intact. Council- member Gunkel further indicated that Mr. Dave Sellergren; City Attorney, had recently stated that the legislature had not acted on the tax increment issue this session and since the legislature has now adjourned, nothing would probably happen until they meet again. . Mayor Hinkle suggested that the developer meet with the utilities and discuss acquisition of the municipal utilities property. Councilmember Gunkel also suggested that once the developer and utilities have met, the Council could meet jointly with the two groups. Mayor Hinkle, Councilmembers Schuldt, Engstrom, Gunkel, and Williams all expressed their support for the project and their willingness to pe~p out any way they can if the project proves feasible. Mayor Hinkle asked Mr. Wuornos to review the concerns addressed by the Council. Mr. Wuornos agreed to take a look at the whole parking issue and to address the municipal utilities acquisition question, and that he would get back to the Council as soon as possible. 5. Discussion of Possible Sale of Municipal Liquor Store Mr. Fritz Dolejs reviewed for the City Council some of the concerns he had regarding the possible sale of the liquor business, liquor liability was a major issue which the Council should consider; the possibility of a lawsuit and the cost and availability of insurance. He also reviewed the impact of the following items on the liquor store's future: 1) The 21 year legal drinking age law which would cause a cut in sales. 2) The strong probability for legalization of wine sales in grocery stores.. . 3) The elimination of two grades of beer to only one, allowing strong beer to be sold in grocery stores. 4) Future expenditures that are likely to be necessary such as building improvements and new cash registers.