04-08-87 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MIDIUTES City Council April 8, 1987 Bingo Fahey stated that he had no problem renewing the licenses for the (Cont.) Humane Society, DAC, Lion's Club, Servants of Mary or St. Joseph's Society, but had reservations about MRID because of the lack of direct services or benefit to Little Canada and the north suburban area. Fahey stated that he was not interested in supporting a State-wide organization and did not feel the City was obligated to allow bingo for a State-wide organization that does not directly benefit the City. Lora Amaro suggested that the City consider the other lawsuit which has been filed against the Gambling Manager for St. Joseph's Society. Fahey replied that he is not concerned about the allegations against Mr. Amaro, but if it was the Council's desire a hearing could be held and the City could request the women making the allegations appear at the hearing. Blesener stated that he did not want to act as judge and jury on that issue. Blesener felt that the renewal applications should be judged on the merits of the organization themselves. Fahey stated that he was concerned about the letters the City has received from presidents of bingo organizations stating that Mr. Amaro is not welcome back in their organization. However, Fahey agreed that consideration should be limited to the organization itself and how that organization benefits the City of Little Canada. Fahey stated that he was willing to act on the license application for MRID based on the fact that MRID does not conform to the policy guidelines set up by the City in May of 1986, not withstanding the questions that may arise with regard to Ed Amaro's situation. Lora Amaro asked if the Council was going to meet with people who are supporters of Ed Amaro. Fahey noted that that issue has been set aside and pointed out that MRID does not meet with the policy requirements the City set up a year ago for the Hall. Fahey did not feel a state-wide referral service provides any direct services to the area that can be seen as are provided by the other organizations. Blesener commented that he did not feel the use of funds for attendance at conferences was a proper charitable use. Latz again appeared before the Council and stated that it seems there is a misunderstanding about the services MRID provides. Latz stated that while the agency provides state-wide service, 70 to 80% of their work is done in the Twin Cities area. Latz stated that he does not have a number for the interpreters in Little Canada or the number of hearing impared people in the City, but estimates could be put together. Latz stated that MRID Page -24-