05-12-93 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MAY 12, 1993 Hanson asked the City Attorney whether or not the City has the authority to control rents charged at the bingo hall. The City Attorney indicated that the Council does have the authority to control rents. Scalze asked if the Council had the authority to grant a bingo hall license to whomever it chose. The City Attorney replied that this was correct, and pointed out that the present bingo hall license expires on July 31st. Hanson noted that other bingo halls seem to be attracting crowds, and appearance may be a factor in why the crowds are down at the Little Canada Bingo xall. Scalze stated that it was real obvious to her that if things continue on their present path, there will be no charitable gamblinq in the City in the future. The organizations will be out of business because the numbers are not working. Morelan felt that it would take a cooperative effort to revive charitable gambling because not only the City and organizations benefit, but the property owner benefits as well. Joe Vitale asked what other controls the City might consider in addition to rent controls. Scalze suggested that the City not only consider rent controls at the bingo hall, but at pull-tab sites as well. Joe Vitale asked if Twin City Federal was interested in having the bingo operation at the Market Place. Jim Stellick stated that he cannot speak for TCF, but reported that they have asked him to be involved in the process to see if it was a possibility. Aanson pointed out the extensive expenditure to remodel the Market Place for a bingo hall site, as well as the court indictments. TCF is looking for viable tenants and looking for a long-range commitment. Hanson also pointed out that the way the ordinance is written, a charitable organization has to be a resident of Little Canada for at least three years prior to application. Scalze pointed out the situation of three of the Page 3