08-26-92 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL AUGUST 26, 1992 by three liquor businesses in the City expressing an interest in having the Play 21 blackjack tables in their establishments. Mr. Grieman reported that Play 21 currently has locations in Minneapolis, Cottage Grove, Burnsville, Crystal, St. Paul and Chanhassen. The business has been in operation for six years without problems or any incidents of alleged gambling. Grieman explained that the blackjack tables are operated solely for fun, no prizes of any kind are awarded, therefore, there is no gambling involved. Grieman requested that the City amend its ordinance to allow Play 21 to operate in the City. LaValle stated that as long as the liquor businesses want this, he would support anything the City could do to enhance their business. Grieman reported that there are no contracts signed with any of the liquor businesses at this time, however, several have expressed an interest. Blesener stated that he did not have a problem with the proposal, and pointed out that it is not gambling as long as the concept remains as stated. Scalze asked if the City Attorney was aware of any problems with the Play 21 operation. The Attorney replied that he was not, but pointed out that he has not conducted an investigation. Scalze questioned why anyone would want to play blackjack if there were no prizes involved. Grieman reported that people will play merely for entertainment and practice. Mr. Collova introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION N0. 92-8-283 - AUTHORIZING THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN ORDINANCE AMENDMENT WHICH WOULD ALLOW FOR THE PLAY 21 OPERATION IN THE CITY SUBJECT TO PLAY 21 ENTERING INTO A COST REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT TO COVER THE CITY ATTORNEY'S TIME IN DRAFTING THE ORDINANCE AMENDMENT The foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Blesener. Ayes (5) Collova, Blesener, Hanson, LaValle, Scalze. Nays (0). Resolution declared adopted. Page 9