06-28-2004 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, June 28, 2004 7:00 o'clock p.m. (PUBLIC COMMENTS, Continued) • pointed out that camp records indicate that 5,000 -6,000 veterans and their families visited the site last year. While he concurred that security over the next two years is of concern, he stated that the camp continues to be under control by the same vets who've volunteered to stay out at the camp to maintain order. While 100's of vets wished to attend the Council meeting this evening, Jabbour stated that a handful of representatives were chosen to speak on their behalf. Based on his experience as a past Mayor, Jabbour stated that the Orono Comp Plan identifies its vision for the Camp to remain a Vets Camp in perpetuity. He expressed his amazement that the Governors office had to do a great deal of research to obtain information, since all they would have to do is contact those that ran the camp, the individuals present this evening. William Anderson, 3877 Park Lane, Spring Park, Representative of the Big Island Veterans Community and Commander of the Mound VFW for the past 6 years, removed rather suddenly recently, stated that Senator Olson's statement that the vets voted to close the camp is not a totally accurate statement. He maintained that the Board, not made up of vets who use or have even visited the camp, voted to close the Big Island Vet Camp. Anderson read a letter on behalf of the Big Island Veterans Community into the record. The letter pointed out that the vets have operated and maintained the camp for over 80 years as a unique place open to veterans and their families. While they recognize the property could be put to other use, the vets believe they have created a balance between land preservation and accessibility. The letter went on to ask the Mayor and Council to join the veterans in recognizing the unique • nature of The Big Island Veterans Camp and support the`continued operation of this historic and worthwhile facility. The letter asked the Council to consider rezoning the property to reflect the use it has been put to over the past 100 years, a commercially zoned, seasonal camp for use by veterans, their families, and guests. Anderson's letter concluded by pointing out that 85 years ago the state legislature dedicated the Big Island Veterans Camp as a one -of -a -kind living memorial, a place where vets who answered their country's call could escape, and/or reflect on their experiences and losses. A memorial befitting today's sons and daughters who continue to answer their country's call to service, and for generations of veterans to come. Anderson stated that having recently attended a State VFW Convention in Rochester with 291 other VFW posts in Minnesota, he spoke to approximately 178 other posts who volunteered to write letters in support of the Camp. Of those he spoke to, Anderson stated that 99% of them were surprised to hear of the Camp's closing. Sansevere asked if it would be helpful to the Governor's office if he obtained those letters. Olson stated that it would be extremely helpful if Anderson could supply her with copies of those letters to pass along to the Governor's office. If the group assembled, the Governor's office could consider exercising some authority, or perhaps rescind the decision, but this needs to be determined within the two year timeframe. Sansevere encouraged Olson to show the Governor both Ramstad and Anderson's letters. • PAGE 4of19