Discussion with Ramsey Lions regarding First Right of Refusal with regard to Lawful Gambling Premise Permits

The Ramsey Lions have suggested they would like the City of Ramsey to consider giving them first right of refusal for charitable gambling in all the establishments throughout the City.  City Code regulates and controls the locations of lawful gambling activities and ensures that profits derived from gambling activities in the City of Ramsey provide, to the extent authorized by laws, a direct  benefit to the citizens of Ramsey.  There is a list of conditions the organizations and establishments follow, one of which limits the maximum number of gambling devices at any one location.  There are stipulations on the use of lawful gambling net profits as well as language governing the expenditures within the City's trade area.  The section of City Code that deals with charitable gambling is attached to this Topic Report for Council's information.

Prior to approval of a premise permit, a charitable organization must first seek permission from each establishment to lease space for pull-tabs, etc.  There is no language in the City's Code which would allow any one organization the first right of refusal at each establishment.   The City Attorney advises that there is no such provision in City Code permitting the City Council to approve the Lions Club's request and that it is doubtful that an ordinance amendment could allow such a provision based on being fair in a legal sense with all other competing organizations. 

The Ramsey Lions currently have premise permits in End Zone, Superbowl, Outpost, M & L, and McDuffs.  CLIMB Theater has a premise permit at the Outpost and the Anoka Area Ice Arena has a premise permit at the Penalty Box. 

It is anticipated that Martin Schindel and Tom Kujawa will be attending the work session to represent the Ramsey Lions.

N/A

Based upon discussion.