St. Paul E-Democracy Links http://www.e-democracy.org/stpaul/links.html _________________________________________
The general rule is that public money may only be used for a public purpose. The crux is in the definition of a "public purpose." I acknowledge that that definition can be wide open. I prefer a definition that's more "bricks & mortar," i.e., eliminating blight and health & safety issues.
I would suggest that the Council set out a policy, establish a program (if one doesn't already exist) and clearly set out the criteria as to when loans to new or existing businesses may be considered and for what purpose. .... maybe including expectations as to repayment and loan terms. By setting out the policy for such loans, the playing field may not be level, but at least the playing field is defined.
Pam Frantum Merriam Park
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