01-09-25 - Charter Comm Minutes - Final

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Charter Commission January 9, 2025 Page 4 138 139 Chair Dahl stated that there is an existing tire shop and now a new one will be opening soon 140 across the street, which she did not see as competition but an issue that would cause one business 141 to go out of business. She asked if something could be put in ordinance to ensure a distance 142 between similar types of businesses. 143 144 Commissioner Damiani used the example of gas stations, banks, and liquor stores that commonly 145 choose to be located in similar manners. 146 147 Commissioner Rodriguez commented that she did not believe that the City should limit who goes 148 into business or which property they purchase. She stated that customers will choose the 149 business they want to frequent. 150 151 Commissioner Trehus commented that quality design was a topic during the recent elections, 152 which is why he believes that this topic would also be good for the joint meeting with the City 153 Council. 154 155 Commissioner Digatono asked if there are any locations that provide the opportunity for small 156 businesses to open. 157 158 Commissioner Reynolds stated that he struggles to say that businesses cannot come to the 159 community as there is a desire for business, but also does not want to see another business 160 pushed out by a new business. 161 162 Commissioner Hausladen stated that the City has always bent over backward for development at 163 the expense of the residents. He stated that if there are too many of the same business there will 164 be saturation, and some will struggle. 165 166 Commissioner Grattan agreed that it is great to have new businesses, and a business will not 167 choose to locate somewhere they do not think they can compete. 168 169 Commissioner Holmstrom stated that he does not support additional government regulations, 170 especially controlling capitalism. He stated that someone opening a tire shop across the street 171 from another tire shop must be confident in their ability to provide a good service to the 172 customer. He stated that a small business tire shop will most likely not choose to locate across 173 from a franchise and noted that competition will only improve the market for the customer. 174 175 Commissioner Rodriguez asked for more information on the process for businesses to come to 176 the city, whether that is market -driven or whether a member of staff solicits desired businesses to 177 come to Lino Lakes. 178 179 Chair Dahl noted that Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is also a tool for community development. 180 She thanked staff for the report. 181 182 Commission Consensus