Notes from October 11, 2016

 

Our program speakers were longtime Eden Prairie City Council members Brad Aho and Ron Case, who are running unopposed for re-election. The two emphasized that, even though there’s a climate of negative politicking at the national level, the five-member city council operates in a respectful and solution-seeking manner even when there are differences of opinion. They’d like that to continue. Responding to questions, the two acknowledged that the debuts of Total Wine in Edina and Chanhassen have caused Eden Prairie Liquor sales to decline by single digits. In contrast to Edina, where liquor-store profits go into the general fund, Eden Prairie’s profits go to the capital-improvement program so it’s easier to make adjustments for the decline in sales. Brad says he’s confident that support for the municipal-run stores will continue as people see the value and convenience that’s provided, as well as the knowledgeable staff. It’s still a very healthy amount of profit that’s contributed by the operation, said Case – more than would be provided in liquor-license fees if the municipal operation were terminated and privately owned liquor stores were permitted to operate in Eden Prairie.