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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/01/1977 � c • � CITY OF A�PLE VALLEY URBAN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE September 1, 1977 PRESENT: Hecker, Myers, Goering, Ronay, Regis, Smith ABSENT: Edwards Chairman Hecker called the meeting to order. Hecker explained that he had spoke to the Mayor and Councilmember Hayes and they do not like the game machines in the 7-11 Stores. Branning also recommended that the Committee look into licensing of "game ma.chines" as well as licensing of 'bending machines". There was a question in reference to the "game machine" located in the Snyder Bros. Drug Store. Bruce Erickson from the AV Police Dept. met with the Committee. They have complaints from some of the employees at the 7-11 Stores. The pinball machines create more of a hangout for the kids; there have also been some complaints from the residents. The • kids loiter outside the store until tl�ey can be allowed in to play the machines. Ronay asked if elimination of the pinball machines would eliminate the problem? And if there is a problem with the ma.chines at the Roller Rink & Bowling Alley? Erickson stated that the machines are watched closer in those locations. He stated that the 7-11 Stores were a hangout before the pinball machines were placed in the stores; however, he doesn't feel the loitering problem would be as bad. Elimination of the machines he feels couldn't hurt and he thinks it would help the problem. Mr. Erickson stated that he has no qualms with the ma.chines; they don`t belong at the 7-11 Stores. Committee members asked if it hurts the 7-11 Business -- there was a feeling that some people didn't shop there because of the kids hanging around, however, they also add to the revenue of the store. Gloria Dieters & Lynn Kline, local residents also met w3.th the Committee in reference to the feelings about the ma.chines. Ms. Kline stated that she does not have children old enough to be spending time at the 7-11, however, the neighbors had complained to her and she is here as a spokesman. She stated that the residents were not happy wi.th the 7-11 being located in the area in the first place; however, it is supposed to be a conveuience center or fast food center. Their high profit items seem to be the "slurpies", candy, etc. The people who work in the stores are usually younger and they have a problem "clearing out" the kids. With a lot of kids ha.nging around and loitering in the store and parking lot does not aid in making it a good place to go to shop. She also referred to the "litter" in the parking lot and around the store. She also feels that the elimination of the game machines may help to eliminate some of the problems; it may help people when they want to go to the store. Some of the area residents have expressed to her that they will not send their small children to the store because of a11 the the "big kids" hanging around the area. She is wondering if the store is loosing business because of aIl of the loitering. Erickson stated that the kids in the area spend alot of money. The Committee further discussed the problems with reg�tlation of the "game machines." If it is the store; what will be eliminated if they require that the machines be removed. What will be accomplished. . • � Page ��2 Urban Affairs Committee • � 9/1/77 Regis suggested that when an ordinance is drafted you lim3.t these machines to certain areas. When it is sent to the Council the Committee can attach an explanation of input from the Police Dept. , resident, etc. , include the thoughts of the Committee members, etc. Are the "candy"& "slurpies" as mueh o€ a problem as the pinball machines Are they also a lure to the kids? Where are we going to draw the line? Why does a line have to be drawn? Will regulating the gaming devices solve the problem? There was considerable discussion in reference to where the "game machines" could be allowed and how they could restrict the location of ma.chines to zoning districts. They discussed allowing the machines only in the entertainment/recreation areas. Meeting adjourned. A representative of 7-11 Stores will attend the September 15, 1977 meeting. Note: The Urban Affairs Committee has been requested to review Ordinance 27 (Nuisances) -- the weed control portion. A study of this ordinance can be resumed when a conclusion has been reached on the "Game Machines. '