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. . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 10,2000 4 to benefactors such as the School District, City's Parks & Recreation Department, and Northwest Youth & Family Services. Mr. Frank Belgea, an employee of Pot O'Gold Bingo Hall and representative of the applicant, stated hc was around when the ordinance was passed, adding the original discussion was concerned with organizations located outside the local trade area who took their accumulated funds out of the area. He added, in his opinion, supporting the church is a benefit to the community through the programs offered which are beneficial to City residents and the trade area. Mr. Belgea expressed concern that his organization is restricted by the ordinance because they are raising their own funds. He added, in his opinion, this is not consistent. He noted, however, that the church intends to comply with City ordinance. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that a church licensed for charitable gambling can contribute to their own general fund according to State Statute. She stated this is a unique situation. She requested clarification with regard to the ways in which the church's programs will benefit the community at large. Mr. Belgea stated that any social or religious organization benefits the area in which it is located, as residents do not have to be members to attend programs. He added that he is Ul1able to mention specific programs due to lack of funding which has kept the church from offering any progranlS. Councilmember Larson stated the ordinance as written seems broad, and requested, for purposes of comparison, a review of gambling licensees in current operation within the City, and how the accumulated funds are spent. Mr. Post stated various organizations at the bingo hall, including the Light Brigade, St. Mary's Orthodox Church, Earthstar Project, and the 621 Foundation, comply with the ordinance through donations to a variety or organizations, including educational and athletic programs within the School District. He noted that there is not an example of an applicant that was a facility-based organization within the trade area, such as the applicant. Mr. Post stated that the 10% net profit contribution to the City of Arden Hills is an ordinance requirement. This contribution to the Community Services Fund counts toward fulfilling the 50% trade area-spending obligation. Councilmember Grant requested clarification with regard to the local trade area boundaries. Mr. Post stated the local trade area encompasses the City of Arden Hills and contiguous cities, including Roseville, New Brighton, Mounds View and Shoreview. Councilmember Rem stated that, as there is no precedent dictating how this situation should be handled, she is concerned that the ordinance is not specific. She added that she would not wish to change the ordinance to make it more explicit for this particular case.