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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—OCTOBER 24, 2011 8 Councilmember Werner stated he doesn't know what else would be done with the TCAAP property so he is in favor of the stadium. However, he is concerned about the proposed county sales tax because it is for a period of thirty years and he believes it is over-burdensome. Another point he made is that the north end"gets the short end of the stick" and he believes that having the stadium would bring more improvements to our area. He would vote for a resolution supporting the stadium proposal but would not support the county sales tax. He also does not agree that a public hearing is necessary. He added that the Council has been silent for so long that most people assume we are not against the stadium. Mayor Grant commented that the Council should not proceed with a resolution unless the entire Council is in agreement. Councilmember Tamble commented that the Councilmembers are representing the residents and the stadium is a gigantic topic. He was concerned about moving forward without offering the residents an opportunity for input. He added that he does believe the Council should take a position on the stadium. Councilmember Holden pointed out that the last City newsletter had a full article about the stadium including information on how residents could express their opinions to the Council. She stated that there had not been any surge in contact from residents. Mayor Grant commented that if the Council listened to all the residents who object to road projects,the City would never do a road project. Councilmember Tamble stated he would like to have the opportunity to educate the residents on this topic. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Sue Iverson stated the Council could offer an educational component without doing a public hearing. City Administrator Klaers stated that the Council has been silent on the stadium issue to this point which implies support. He explained that he is looking for more direction from the Council before the special session and whether or not the Council wants to hire a lobbyist. He stated the lobbyist's proposal includes two options; a weekly contract or for representation during the special session in November. He stated that the Governor will be making his.recommendation on November 7 and will probably reaffirm his plans for a special session at that time. He suggested that the Council may want to wait until after the Governor's announcement to take a position. Councilmember Holden commented that before taking a position, she wants more details about the proposal to ensure that the City's interests are being protected. After some discussion, the Council consensus was to enter into a contract with the lobbyist, Todd Hill, with instruction from the Council in support of the stadium. Councilmember Tamble stated that if we don't hold a public hearing, he believes we should present to our residents a list of the opportunities for public input on the stadium proposal.