6. HRSR 11-05-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I Iousing & Redevelopment Authority Minutes September 4, 2007 Page 4 Chair Wilson asked who is involved in the group. Ms. Mehelich explained that membership includes primarily Elk River area community members, and noted that some members come from as far as Ely to participate. The purpose of the group is to pray for the community and public leaders. Ms. Mehelich stated that the group has 30-50 members and they are proposing to use the space on a month-to-month basis. Commissioner Kuester asked if the group has requested meeting space in the new library. Ms. Mehelich stated that Mr. Ripka has not spoken with Parks & Recreation Director Bill Maertz yet, and is unsure what the library's new policy will be for meeting space. Commissioner Kuester asked if the City's property on Highway 169 and Main Street was an option. Ms. Mehelich stated that the building is used for recreational programming and there were no chairs for seating. Commissioner Kuester asked how issues such as heating of the building, chairs, and insurance liability would be handled. Ms. Mehelich stated that the building will be kept heated and cooled regardless, and that Pray Elk River would provide their own chairs. City Administrator Lori Johnson noted that the City's general meeting liability insurance would cover the use. Commissioner Motin asked if the group would be paying rent. Ms. Mehelich stated that they did not discuss rent, noting that they have used the library for 13 years at no cost. Chair Wilson stated that he felt the group may be better off finding a permanent location now. Commissioner Kuester asked if the group has explored the possibility of staying at the "old" library, since the building will still be in use for senior programming. Commissioner Motin stated that the parking issue downtown is a concern. He stated he was not in favor of adding 30-50 additional cars downtown during lunchtime. Mehelich asked if parking would be a strong concern, if the group only meets there for three weeks. Chair Wilson stated he did not have a problem with allowing the group to use the space for a limited amount of time. Commissioner Toth concurred. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER TOTH AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER LIESER TO APPROVE THE REQUEST BY THE PRAY ELK RIVER GROUP TO USE THE 71G MAIN STREET PROPERTY FOR TEMPORARY MEETING SPACE FOR A PERIOD OF THREE WEEKS. Commissioner Motin stated that he would vote against the issue due to the parking concern. Commissioner Toth asked if there is currently a problem with downtown parking. Commissioner Motin stated that he does not have a problem finding a parking space for lunch now, but if 50 more cars are added, there could be a problem. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-1. Commissioner Motin opposed. 7. Adjournment There being no other business, Chair Wilson adjourned the meeting. The meeting of the Elk River Housing and Redevelopment Authority adjourned at 6:28 p.m. ~i~~icc ~C~~,~-t-- Debbie Huebner Recording Secretary