HomeMy WebLinkAboutgr00090_000039_pg031City Council minutes
-6- January 26, 1976
Mayor Johnson stated that the Council took action to increase
the fee for the licenses. We do not have to take immediate
action on the on -sale liquor license and the businessmen asked
for time to research the matter, and so it was tabled. Does
anyone want to speak for liquor on -sale establishments?
John G. Bell, Attorney for Anchor Inn, Donatelle's, Launching
Pad and Mermaid liquor establishments,spoke to the Council. He
stated that the position of the on -sale liquor establishments is
that they are adequately licensed now and the fees should not
be higher. In the course of their investigation they cannot
find anything to justify an increase. He submitted a memorandum
(attached) that he had prepared. They did not feel that the
police services were of a very great amount. In checking
with the number of calls, they amount to only 4% of the total
calls made in a 7 -month period. The proposed ordinance would
involve some overlapping in regulations. His clients are willing
to pay their fair share. As a practical matter their industry is
a major industry in Mounds View. The planned license fees would
be the highest per capita in the area with the exception of
New Brighton and Arden Hills. The proposed fees would put the
liquor establishments at a disadvantage compared to surrounding
areas. The Council has an obligation to their citizens to see
that they are not put at a competitive disadvantage. His
clients would support any projects that would help the city with
its financial crunch and they want to work with the Council in
every way possible to maintain a good city, etc. However, some
other areas that the Council should consider is higher demands
for police service in the shopping center, for example. Also
an increase to the apartment areas. They do not feel that the
on -sale liquor should bear the brunt of the financial crunch.
He further stated that he would like his written argument
included in the minutes (attached). He asked if the Bel Rae
was the only place pertinent in the dance hall ordinance? The
Administrator replied that that was correct.
Mayor Johnson had comments: We have been informed that the
toughest police services are primarily calls that are made at
the liquor establishments in terms of actual physical damages to
policemen and people. Would you care to comment on this?
Mr. Bell: In checking on the numbers and frequency, low percentage.
Further, there is more chance of injury to a policeman at a
domestic. This is not a fair estimate as there are tough calls
anywhere.
Mayor Johnson: Do you deny that allegation then?
Mr. Bell: I stand on the comments I made. Conclusions sometimes
cannot be supported because the facts are not adequately presented.
Could be tough calls anywhere.