08-26-24-SWS - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—AUGUS 2024 7 Councilmember Fabel asked how much money they are seeking. Jim O'Keefe said they would ask for half of the cost. The cost will be higher or lower based on the amenities that are included in the facility. The desired amenities are determined by the community. Turf fields or an aquatics center will increase the cost. Temporary Chairperson Rousseau asked staff if the next step would be a financial feasibility aspect or just an overall, general study of the concept. Interim City Administrator Jagoe said that if Council has interest in discussing it further, she believes the next step is for Council to direct Staff to schedule something in an upcoming work session for a full council discussion. Temporary Chairperson Rousseau would like to explore it more and continue having discussions. Councilmember Holden asked how much business a facility like this takes from surrounding businesses. Shawn O'Keefe said they are not aware of any other business that does this. Councilmember Holden said right now kids go to New Brighton because they have a gym with big courts. There is the YMCA, the Shoreview Community Center. She understands this is a different animal but it's only a different animal during tournaments. She would like to understand the impacts this might have on those businesses. Temporary Chairperson Rousseau asked if they have a market analysis of competitors. Shawn O'Keefe didn't think the feasibility study included that, but they can look at it. Jim O'Keefe admitted that there may be a detriment to a business like a YMCA but the overall impact of the community as a whole is positive. Council agreed to add this item to a future agenda to continue the conversation. B. MVI Hockey Interim City Administrator Jagoe gave a brief overview of previous discussions on this topic. She introduced Carl Kuhl from the Mounds View/Irondale(MVI)Youth Hockey Association. She noted in the agenda materials there was a letter asking for a contribution from the City. They are requesting $46,500. She opened the discussion. Councilmember Holden said she read that participation in hockey is increasing. She understands the MVI association gives grants to help cover the expensive equipment. She asked how many grants they award and how do they retain younger players. Carl Kuhl replied that a lot of the growth comes from young players. They started a program called Mini-Mays about three years ago. It is an entry level program that started at $49 for 17 sessions. It's a 30-minute session for kids ages 4-6 who have never played hockey before. Each player receives a full bag of equipment. As kids move up to the higher levels, there is a