10-22-97 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL OCTOBER 22, 1997 profile. Plisner questioned what the Historical Society has done to preserve the special heritage of Little Canada, and felt this was the way the Historical Society could serve the entire public. Plisner also felt the Historical Society has done nothing that gives the security that they could operate charitable gambling once they become eli~ible. Plisner questioned what the Historical Society has done over the past year to publicize its program and make someone like him support the expenditure of $300,000 for this organization. Plisner pointed out that there has been discussion about the cost of the addition, but no discussion about the Historical Society's program. Plisner suggested the matter be put to the voters. Plisner also pointed out that it would be less expensive to rent space for the Historical Society. Plisner noted the display the Historical Society has at the City Center pointing out that there is nothing in the display special to Little Canada. Plisner asked what the Historical Society is doing that is special to Little Canada. Plisner was concerned that the 2,000 square foot addition proposed would be just a place to display brick-a-brack. Plisner felt that he was well informed gettin~ most of his information from local newspapers and cable TV, but pointed out that he knows nothing about the Historical Society. Plisner stated that he is not lookin~ to pick a fight with his nei~hbors, especially those that do community good. Plisner challenged the Historical Society to promote itself, provide information on the programs it conducts or is plannin~, including programs for youth and children. Plisner felt that a public expenditure should be for a community organization rather than for a small group of people with a special interest. Plisner felt programs must be seen and appreciated by Little Canada citizens. Plisner stated that in the three years he has lived in Little Canada, he does not know what the Historical Society is, and again Plisner commented that he is a well-informed citizen. Plisner suggested that a decision on the addition be postponed for a year and a half to see what the Historical Society does to promote itself and the project. With reference to the comment that the Historical Society is a private organization, Fahey stated that he would like to draw a parallel between the Fire Department and the Historical Society. The Fire Department is a private organization that serves the City and receives City funding. Therefore, the precedent exists for the use of public funds to support the Historical Society. Fahey felt it was important to preserve the City's unique identity and special herita~e. Fahey pointed out that the Historical Society is comprised by a group of inembers who are enthusiastic about serving. Fahey felt this was a quality of life issue. The City would be spending public funds for a private organization similar to what is done for 11