04-25-2005 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View EDA April 25, 2005 Regular Meeting Page 10 noted that it is his assumption that the EDA and City Council would have to approve the sale of public property or assets, which would include additional hearings. He asked if the timing for notification to the public and scheduling of the public hearings has been determined. He asked if there are any conditions, under the current charter, that allows the public to begin initiatives to keep the golf course or park, as allowed under Chapter 8. He asked if City Council would be faced with trying to locate new property to build a golf course and what is the plan for increasing the size of Red Oaks Road. Daniel Hall, 12860 Beaver Street, Blaine, stated that he believes the only reason Medtronic approached Mounds View is because of the street leading straight up to the golf course. He asked if Medtronic approached the City or if the City had approached Medtronic. President Marty stated that Medtronic approached the City with their proposal. Mr. Hall stated that businesses like his; located around Medtronic; do get spin-off business from Medtronic. He stated that there is a trickle down of dollars spent in the Community by Medtronic employees noting that he has nothing against the golf course except for the fact that it has been subsidized by programs and is still losing money. He stated that it is prudent for the City to review realistic scenarios and the costs for the City noting that stewardship of the City should be to determine how they City could best serve the Community. He stated that as far as Medtronic and the TIF dollars, 99-percent of the TIF dollars are given to TIF districts by businesses in order to entice other businesses to come into the area. He stated that as a businessperson, he is supportive of Medtronic coming to Mounds View and it is up to the City to determine where the dollars should go. President Marty clarified that funds have never been taken from the General Fund to subsidize the golf course and it has nothing to do with the pensions. Jim Wilson, 7025 Pleasant View Drive, asked who would be responsible for the costs to mitigate the land in the golf course, the City or Medtronic? City Clerk/Administrator Ulrich stated that Medtronic would be responsible for the mitigation of the wetlands on the property adding that this is part of the eligibility requirement. Jim Manthis, 9664 Juniper Street Northwest, Coon Rapids, stated that he is interested in preserving The Bridges Golf Course noting that golf has always been a part of his life. He stated that this is his 40th year in the golf business and has served on the National PGA Board of Directors and knows the benefits of golf for everyone. He stated that when he describes the type of facility The Bridges is to friends they are impressed by what they hear and it creates their interest for one in their Community. He stated that he would support the Medtronic project if someone could prove to him that this is an overwhelmingly good deal for the City but at this point, he has yet to see the benefits and will continue to fight for The Bridges. Tim Mazzoni, 1520 23rd Avenue Northwest, New Brighton, stated that he speaks as an advocate