04-10-25 - Council Special Work Session Agenda Packet

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Commissioner Digatono asked if there are any locations that provide the opportunity for small businesses to open. Commissioner Reynolds stated that he struggles to say that businesses cannot come to the community as there is a desire for business, but also does not want to see another business pushed out by a new business. Commissioner Hausladen stated that the City has always bent over backward for development at the expense of the residents. He stated that if there are too many of the same business there will be saturation, and some will struggle. Commissioner Grattan agreed that it is great to have new businesses, and a business will not choose to locate somewhere they do not think they can compete. Commissioner Holmstrom stated that he does not support additional government regulations, especially controlling capitalism. He stated that someone opening a tire shop across the street from another tire shop must be confident in their ability to provide a good service to the customer. He stated that a small business tire shop will most likely not choose to locate across from a franchise and noted that competition will only improve the market for the customer. Commissioner Rodriguez asked for more information on the process for businesses to come to the city, whether that is market -driven or whether a member of staff solicits desired businesses to come to Lino Lakes. Chair Dahl noted that Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is also a tool for community development. She thanked staff for the report. Commission Consensus It was the consensus of the Commission to forward the question to the City Attorney for further review prior to the next Charter Commission meeting. RECOMMENDATION No formation action is required, any adopted consensus recommendations approved following the discussion this evening should be forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Board, as a zoning matter. ATTACHMENTS City Attorney Memo