HomeMy WebLinkAbout4.B.1. Request for Deviation from Fee Schedule �1 � l,
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CITY OF SHAKOPEE � ' ����,;G�'� �
Memorandum
TO: Mayor&City Council
Mark McNeill, City Administrator
FROM: Tom Pitschneider,Fire Inspector/Marshal
SUBJECT: Request for deviation from the approved fee schedule
DATE: May 8,2012
Introduction•
The Fire Department has received a written request from Valleyfair to review the
proposed fee to be charged for aerial fireworks displays for the 2012 season. Valleyfair
is asking for a variance to the existing fee structure.
Back�round:
In past years Valleyfair has held aerial fireworks displays only on various weekends
throughout the summer months with a total of 7 or 8 shows each year. During these years
Valleyfair has paid the normal fee schedule rate. This year Valleyfair has proposed to
display fireworks on 71 various nights from June 1 to August 25.
The current adopted fee schedule was based on the need for an inspection each weekend
as the shooting area was set-up and broke down each week which resulted in fees being
charged for each show. For the 2012 season the fireworks display contractor will be
leaving the shooting area set-up throughout the 71 days being proposed. There will also
be a special set-up for the show on July 4.
Based on the current fee schedule the fees far 71 shows would be �2,270.00. Valleyfair
has asked that the fee be reviewed based on the continuous set-up. Staff also notes that
nightly inspections would create a substantial burden on the current department staffing
for these inspection.
Based on a review of past inspections the Fire Department would suggest that two
inspections be conducted each week with an additional inspection to occur on July 4.
Using that basis the proposed permit fee for 2012 would be $920.00.
The Fire Department does not see the need to amend the current fee schedule, as this is a
situation unique to Valleyfair's 2012 operational season.
Alternatives•
1. Approve a variance for Valleyfair related to the fee schedule for aerial firework
displays for the 2012 operational season.
2. Do not approve a variance for Valleyfair related to the fee schedule for aerial
firework displays for the 2012 operational season.
3. Table for more information
Recommendation:
Staff recommends Alternative 1 which approves_a variance to Valleyfair related to the fee
schedule for aerial firework displays for the 2012 operational season.
Relationshiq to Goals:
This supports goal D. Maintain, improve and create strong partnerships with other public
and private sector entities
Action Required:
If the council concurs, it should offer a motion to authorize the approval of a variance to
the existing fee schedule for Valleyfair reducing the 2012 fee for fireworks displays at
Valleyfair from$2,270.00 to $920.00.
`lalleyfair
April 20, 2012
Mr. Tom Pitschneider
Fire Marshal
Station Captain
Shakopee Fire Department
129 Holmes Street South
Shakopee, MN 55379
RE: 2012 Fireworks Fee Schedule
Dear Mr. Pitschneider,
Thank you for providing a fee schedule to Mr Kris Stauffer, Valleyfair
Entertainment Manager, related to the 71 nights of fireworks to be provided for
the Valleyfair guests.
The current fee structure amounts to $2,270 for the entire schedule of
performances. I would appeal to you and the City Council to review the fee
schedule and consider a more economical fee structure. 70 of the 71 shows are
the same set up each night and are considered a small show, lasting only 4-6
minutes. The show on July 4th will be grander and is considered a large show,
lasting 18-22 minutes.
Valleyfair appreciates its relationship with the City of Shakopee and the mutual
benefits enjoyed through this relationship. Please consider a review of this fee
schedule and let Kris or I know if there is ar�y possibility of a reduced fee total.
Sincerely,
C�
�yl a ger
r of Finance
Valleyfair
One Valleyfair Drive � Shakopee,MN 55379 � (952)445-7600 � valleyfair.com