05-28-1986 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES Planning Commission May 8, 1986 Bingo (Cont.) Timmons asked if the 20% contribution to the City was on a voluntary basis. It was pointed out that this contribution was contained as a condition in the City Council's resolution acting on the gambling license. Blomberg pointed out that any profits from the bingo hall have to go to non - profit organizations. Mr. Short suggested that the Commission approve the license for a 3 month trial period. At the end of that time, if the operation does not work out, the license can be revoked. Short stated that he was willing to take this risk as a building owner, and felt that the City should consider it also. Short pointed out the applications fees the charities will lose if they cannot get approval by the City before the end of May. Short also pointed out that the building will remain off the tax rolls until he has an occupant. Timmons'asked the representative of Front Avenue Boosters his role as president of the Board of Directors for the bingo hall. This gentleman explained that as president he would chair the meetings of the Board, but would have the same vote as the other members of the Board. Bob Finnerty explained that the Board of Directors would have a set of By -Laws and Board members would each have one vote. Also, it is the State that is the licensing authority and they would regulate the bingo hall. Finnerty reported that the charities need site approval, specifically the parking issue, from the Planning Commission. The charities were asked why they came to Little Canada. Blomberg replied that the charities felt the City would treat them fairly and pointed out that the various charities have operated successful pull -tab operations in the City. Mr. Costa asked about problems Front Avenue Sr. Booster Club is having in St. Paul with bingo. Mr. Finnerty and the representative of Front Avenue Boosters explained the situation in St. Paul. There seems to be a problem with St. Paul's licensing authority desire toaudit the books of the Club. Front Avenue Boosters has volunteered its books to the State of Minnesota, from which St. Paul's licensing authority can obtain them. Mr. Davison stated that he was against tabling action on the parking issue as the bingo hall is an approved use and the Council is within its power to grant the gambling license without action from the Planning Commission. Davison did not feel the Planning Commission had the authority to deny bingo. Davison pointed out that Mr. Short has presented adequate parking plans. Page -7-