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LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL MINUTES JULY 15, 2014 <br />Page 5 of 6 <br /> <br />Dave Gonyea stated that he would like larger lots if there was different zoning, but can accommodate the mixed sizes. <br />NEW BUSINESS <br />ITEM 18: FUTURE OF LAKE ELMO LIBRARY <br />Mayor Pearson explained his reason for bringing this to council. He would like the Council’s input on what <br />situation would take place where they council see the City rejoining the County system. The legal <br />Maintenance of Effort was asked for. Staff will obtain and provide details of the MOE for Council. <br />Steve Linder described the importance of the library use by the Boy Scouts for meetings. He is concerned <br />about the ability the use the facility if the County takes it over. <br />Karen Johnston spoke about the various programs the library offers. She is concerned that the programs and <br />services would be discontinued if the County takes it over. <br />Paul Ryberg spoke about the how the library can be beneficial to the business community as a business <br />resource. <br />Anne Bucheck wants the library to be the same as the Stillwater and Bayport libraries as an Associate <br />Library. <br />Judy Gibson concerned about losing control of the library if the County takes over. Increased collaboration <br />would be good but not at the expense of losing control. <br />Sarah Linder stated that the Board has no desire to “go back” to the County system; however, the Board <br />does desire to become an Associate Library. Ms. Linder explained all her concerns with County control. She <br />also noted how the Lake Elmo library has met all the criteria that were set out by the County to re-affiliate <br />with the system as an independent library. <br />The issue of residents being able to access County resources was discussed. The related recent JPA proposal <br />that the Mayor had brought to the Board was discussed. The Board has several concerns with the proposal. <br />Marjorie Williams spoke about the federated system in the Arrowhead region. <br />Council Member Smith noted that she had initially voted against leaving Washington County but due to the <br />success, she has had a change of heart. She really likes the library now and thinks it is an important part of <br />downtown. She does not see the issue of rejoining the County as simple. She wants to make sure that any re- <br />affiliation maintains local control. <br />Mr. Reeves noted that the biggest issue he has received is convenient access to County resources. Other <br />issues that were brought up were hours, volunteers, and cost. The proposed JPA was further discussed. It <br />would not allow the residents to access other counties’ resources. The biggest concern with the JPA was the <br />expense of an open number of cards to residents. There has not been a formal response from the Board in <br />regards to the JPA. <br />Ms. Smith wants the Board to negotiate with the County, not the Mayor. Council Member Nelson is in favor <br />of having the Council involved in finding a win-win scenario. Council Members Reeves, Bloyer and Nelson <br />are in favor of the Mayor and Mr. Reeves working with the County. Mr. Reeves implored the Board to work <br />with the Council to coordinate any discussions so there is a unified voice. Ms. Smith also wants to be <br />included in the discussions. City Attorney Snyder stated that anyone can speak to the County. He also