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Chair DeBenedet noted that the Commission had already listed a number of other <br /> goals beyond price. <br /> Mr. DeLaforest noted that, while price was certainly important, the consumer <br /> should make that decision; and opined that other considerations and statistics, <br /> such as safety, should be reviewed. Mr. DeLaforest provide the City of Brooklyn <br /> Park and their initial safety concerns and ultimate decision to not pursue <br /> organized collection after their review of police records over fifteen (15) years <br /> and no evidence found of safety issues. <br /> Member Vanderwall noted that many incidents or issues may not have a formal <br /> complaint filed or documented, but still occurred. <br /> Member Stenlund noted the need to recognize that, no matter their type or <br /> specifics, the fewer number of vehicles on the roadway, the safer the <br /> environment. <br /> Mr. DeLaforest noted that this may be a consideration with fewer trucks creating <br /> lower statistics; however, in weighing values he noted the need to consider <br /> impacts to family-owned businesses. <br /> Chair DeBenedet refocused discussion from previously-discussed issues; and <br /> referenced the draft goals outlined by Members. Chair DeBenedet spoke in <br /> support of a meeting between City representatives and haulers in the future; <br /> opining that it was possible, depending on the receptivity of haulers, that an open <br /> hauler system could be retained while still accomplishing those goals. Chair <br /> DeBenedet noted that it was important for all parties involved in this conversation <br /> to recognize that negotiations go a lot further than confrontation. Chair <br /> DeBenedet advised that his concern was one of legalities, if it came to a point for <br /> haulers to evenly divide up the City for organized collection, and it was found to <br /> be impossible. Chair DeBenedet noted that if it was possible for a Roseville rate <br /> to be established consistently and across the board, Roseville residents could then <br /> determine which haulers agreed to that level rate. <br /> Member Stenlund further noted the need for haulers to be upfront about the <br /> destination of trash and not use a"bait and switch" mid-year. <br /> Chair DeBenedet noted that the Commission was sympathetic to small business; <br /> however, he used corner grocery stores or family-owned drug stores as an <br /> example of money talking for consumers with the influx of large chains due to <br /> pricing and convenience. <br /> Mr. Stoltman questioned why now and why did the market make those choices. <br /> Chair DeBenedet questioned if it was the role of government to protect small <br /> business. <br /> Page 13 of 17 <br />