11-23-2020 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

WS – Item 2 WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT Work Session Item No. 2 Date: November 23, 2020 To: City Council From: Michael Grochala, Community Development Director Re: YMCA Property, Temporary Use as COVID-19 Testing Site Background The City has been approached by the YMCA and the State of Minnesota to consider use of the YMCA as a temporary COVID -19 testing site. The State would intend to lease the facility through February, 2021 with a possible extension into early summer. The YMCA is currently closed and there is no current timeline established for reopening. The YMCA is working through their “Reimagining” process. Concurrently, the City is preparing to retain a consultant to evaluate City options related to long term use of the facility. The City’s process will likely extend through March of 2021. Any acceptance and/or approval by the City should be conditioned on 1) agreement that the existing deed restrictions continue to be in effect and 2) that during the term of the lease the City is allowed access to the building for purposes of completing the consultant analysis. Any consideration will also require review by bond counsel regarding use requirements related to the original facility financing. Should the Council propose to proceed staff will complete the review and prepare the necessary agreements for consideration at an upcoming council meeting. Any agreement would also be contingent on the YMCA and State reaching agreement as well. Given the existing pandemic situation the State would prefer to have a facility up and running as soon as possible. Given the short work session staff would suggest adding the discussion to “New Business”, on the regular agenda, if additional discussion is necessary. Requested Council Direction Staff is requesting City Council feedback on allowing use of YMCA for COVID testing. Attachments 1. None