07/23/2001 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL MINUTES JULY 23, 2001 Council Member Reinert moved to adopt Resolution No. 01— 104, as presented. Council Member O'Donnell seconded the motion. Council Member Carlson stated she will not vote against this item but she is very concerned about the wages. The Council is setting policies. This does not apply to businesses that are not receiving subsidies. She also expressed concern that passing this policy for Target/Kohl's is creating entitlements that could be used as negotiation tools. She reviewed the Basic Needs Budget for the City noting the wages that are needed for different family types. She asked the Council to consider wage requirements within the policy. Council Member Dahl stated she does agree with Council Member Carlson. Council Member O'Donnell stated he does understand the points that have been made. However, the City also has to consider the impact on local existing businesses and r it means to them. It could cause businesses to not be able to find employees or go out of busi ;'ss du ' o higher wages. Mayor Bergeson stated some businesses provide jobs for pri citizens and young people. Language is needed in the pol The two (2) tenants will pay wages at that level or hig He indicated he is in support of the wage proposal in ers as well as senior different types of employees. ill be management opportunities. Council Member Carlson stated when people arg low wages they can not afford to live in the city and the whole community suffers. Council Member Carlson proposed to the motion to increase the wages to minimum wage plus 25%. Council Memberd the amendment to the motion. Council Member Carlson sta a ar= '`xceptions that can be made and this only applies to businesses receiving a subsidy. Mayor Bergeson stated he ievs that is already understood. Council Member Reinert expressed concern relating to setting a policy that refers to a carved out segment of population that would work at Target. He indicated he believes the original wage numbers in the policy are fair. He also stated that he believes those working at Target, such as young people and senior citizens, are the majority that have minimum wage jobs. He added there are management opportunities within the company. Motion on the amendment failed with Council Member O'Donnell, Reinert and Mayor Bergeson voting no. Motion on Resolution No. 01 - 104 carried unanimously. Resolution No. 01— 104 can be found in the City Clerk's office. 6