Draft Minutes November 26, 2012 Work Session

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—NOVEMBER 26, 2012 3 Councilmember Tamble stated that if the consideration is to not host a Celebrating Arden Hills Fall Festival, he would eliminate the fireworks altogether. He noted that there is a parallel draw to the fireworks as there is to the festival. He stated that he is open to the idea of hosting movies or concerts in the park; however, he is unsure how the City's demographic supports those types of events. He mentioned that it might be an option of offer different kinds of events to appease different age brackets. At this point, he would be inclined to pull back from all events. Councilmember Holmes asked for clarification from Councilmember Tamble because she thought it sounded as though he does not want the City to host any events. She wondered if he is proposing a new concept. Councilmember Tamble stated that he is not proposing any events at this time. He noted that with the Celebrating Arden Hills Fall Festival, the biggest expense is the fireworks expense. Councilmember Holmes agreed that fireworks are too expensive. She stated that if the City were to go with the movie idea, she thinks that there are a lot of"G" rated movies that would appeal more to families versus just offering movies for little kids. Park and Recreation Manager Olson stated that the movie choices could be changed up to cater to different audiences. She noted again that the advantage of outdoor movie licensing is the fact that movie titles can be used on any advertising that is done. This would allow for a schedule of movie events to be advertised in advance, which would make it easier for people to pick and choose the movies they want to see. She also stated that some cities provide a mixture of concerts and movies. Councilmember Tamble cautioned against using the City of Shoreview's attendance numbers because they have 25,000 residents. The City of Arden Hills could have fewer numbers simply because the population is smaller. Councilmember Holmes stated that advertisement could bring more people from outside the community and not just Arden Hills residents. Mayor Grant inquired if there was something else that the others would like to see done with the money typically spent on fireworks ($7500) if fireworks were eliminated from the fall festival. Councilmember Holden stated that Park and Recreation Manager Olson has done a wonderful job bringing the Council information and new ideas every year, however, she feels that the goal of reaching out to the community is just not being met. She stated that the idea behind the fall festival was to offer a time for the residents and the Council to talk and open the lines of communication, but that just is not happening with this event. She suggested that maybe the event only be held every five years. Councilmember Werner stated that he agrees with Councilmember Holden and that maybe Celebrating Arden Hills should only be held every five years.