2001.03.05 CC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council meeting of March 5, 2001 Page 4 Council had previously authorized staff to order an updated appraisal of the property, if necessary. Because negotiations were stalled, staff did have the appraisal updated, which revealed a new market valuation of the property at $678,000. Staff sought support from Council for approval of a DNR grant application for a 500/o matched funding for acquisition of the Bernin property with the City's 50% share coming from the parkland dedication fund. Community Development Director John Rask provided an update on the DNR grant application for Council, and requested Council authorize to contract with SEH, in the amount of $3,500, to perform Tasks 1 through 3 of the grant application. Councilman Granger felt that the City should get a "good faith letter" from the Bemins in light of the time and money to be expended for purchase of the property. Miron made motion, Granger seconded, authorizing staff proceed with negotiations to acquire the Bruce Bernin property, authorize SEH to assist in the DNR grant application in an amount not to exceed $3500, and subject to the City receiving a "good faith letter" from the Bernins. A public hearing on this issue will be held at the March 19, 2001 City Council meeting. VOTING AYE: Granger, Petryk, Puleo, Miron ABSTAINED: Haas Motion Carried. LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR DEAD BROKE SADDLE CLUB AND STATE HIGH SCHOOL RODEO Each year, the Dead Broke Saddle Club sponsors the Minnesota State High School League Rodeo in the City of Hugo. Additionally, each year the Council requested assistance from the local Marine Reserve Unit to provide security staff for the state high school rodeo activities. Dan and Elaine Ramberg, affiliated with the Dead Broke Saddle Club, requested that the City send a letter to the local Marine Reserve Unit for its assistance. Miron made motion, Granger, authorizing staff to draft a letter soliciting support and assistance of the local Marine Reserve Unit for the Minnesota State High School League Rodeo to be held June 15, 16, and 17, 2001 in the City of Hugo. All aye. Motion Carried. LMC REQUEST FOR SUPPORT OF CITY SALES TAX EXEMPTION The City was notified a few months ago of the League of Minnesota Cities' (LMC) support for a repeal of the City's sales tax that was first imposed on cities in 1993. Previously, all cities had been exempt from sales tax on all city purchases. Each year, the LMC enlists the support of local communities to write letters to the editor in local newspapers enlisting the support of residents and their local legislators. Miron made motion, Petryk seconded, authorizing staff to prepare a letter to the editor, signed by Mayor Fran Miron, supporting the League's efforts for a repeal of the City's sales tax and the rationale by which it benefits Hugo residents. This letter would be sent to the White Bear Press, Hugonian, and St. Paul Pioneer Press. All aye. Motion Carried.