02/23/1998 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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STAFF ORIGINATOR: DATE: TOPIC: BACKGROUND: AGENDA ITEM 6E. Brian Wessel February 23, 1998 Renewal of Hot Air Balloon Contract The promotional program established to promote the identity of Lino Lakes within the community and outside the community has included the use of Blue Yonder Balloon Co.'s hot air balloon for the past three years. Contracting a balloon is generally an expensive promotional endeavor. We have been able to use this balloon because Mary Alice Divine, the city's economic development assistant, has agreed to use of the balloon for far below standard prices. This balloon has been an integral part of the city's promotional campaign and has become a familiar sight over the north and east metro area. Mary Alice has flown the banner in balloon events that draw large crowds, including the Hudson Hot Air Affair, and Rochester, Hastings and Faribault annual summer festivals. With 1998 the year that the civic complex begins construction in The Village, the balloon will continue to be an important and cost effective part of that promotional program. In keeping with economic development's policy to solicit proposals, we obtained two other proposals from local companies for promotional flights (see attached). 1. Winfield Balloon Co. 1931 Benjamin St. NE Minneapolis, MN 55418 2. Wiederkehr Balloons 1604 Euclid St. St. Paul, MN 55108 $200/flight = $4,000 Special event inflation = $300 + $600/flight = $12,000 Special event inflations = $500 The contract with Mary Alice calls for a payment of $60 per flight, for a maximum of $1,200 per contract year. Inflations at special events is $100. Staff recommends the approval of the one -year contract with Blue Yonder Balloon Co. Community Development has a budget approved balloon advertising commitment within its 1998 operation budget.