Sponsor: Parks & Recreation
Title
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Donation from Ahvo Taipale to Ramsey County Parks & Recreation Department
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Recommendation
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Accept the donation of race timing building with an estimated value of $13,500 from Ahvo Taipale to the Parks & Recreation department.
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Background and Rationale
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Ahvo Taipale, a longtime supporter and champion of the Battle Creek Winter Recreation Area, would like to donate a small race timing building at an estimated value of $11,000 and accompanying gravel pad at an estimated value of $2,500 to the county for use by ski race and event organizers. The race timing building is a non-permanent structure akin to a mobile shed that would be placed on a gravel pad. This structure is to be used for cross country ski races and other events that need space for people to do timing operations for racers, as well as a building to serve as an operating hub and warming spot for community events, such as free “try-it” events and equitable cross country ski lessons. This structure will be owned and operated by Parks & Recreation after its installation. Actual donation amounts will be included in a donation acknowledgment letter to Mr. Taipale from the county after all purchases have been made.
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County Goals (Check those advanced by Action)
☒ Well-being ☐ Prosperity ☒ Opportunity ☐ Accountability
Racial Equity Impact
The race timing building will be used for the county’s equitable ski program and other events intended to encourage BIPOC participation in outdoor winter recreation.
Community Participation Level and Impact
This is a request from a community of ski race organizers, who are communicating the need for a race timing building and offering the solution in the form of a generous donation towards building this structure.
☒ Inform ☒ Consult ☒ Involve ☒ Collaborate ☒ Empower
Fiscal Impact
Per the donation, there will be no cost to the county for either the purchase or instillation of the building and gravel pad. Minimal operating expenses of approximately $100 annually will be funded within the current Parks & Recreating department budget. Potential rental revenue could offset those maintenance expenses. The estimated value of the race timing building and pad is $13,500.
Last Previous Action
None.
Attachments
1. None.