Operator seeks to continue concessions at Lindbergh/Lions park; council asks staff to draft agreement

A Little Falls resident asked the City Council at its May 19 special work session for permission to continue operating the concession stand at the Lindbergh/Lions recreational complex and to expand who benefits from its proceeds.

The request came from a concession operator identified in the meeting as Leber, who said she has access to the concession building keys, has discussed equipment and permits with staff and the health department, and is seeking a mobile three‑compartment sink (she said it would cost about $1,000) so the stand can pass health‑code requirements without plumbing changes. "I would just like to continue it," Leber said, adding she intended to cover costs herself or pursue Sourcewell grant funding and not use city funds.

Council members and staff emphasized that, while past arrangements for the building appear to have been informal or verbal, the city needs a written agreement and confirmation of liability coverage before long‑term operations continue. Council member Lucia said the city should "cross our t's and dot our i's," and another council member said they were in favor of preparing a contract. Staff told the council they would work with the city attorney to draft an agreement and follow up with the operator.

Discussion covered practical details the council asked staff to resolve before final approval: whether the Lions Club or another organization holds prior rights or expectations for concessions at the site; whether electricity or other operating costs should be allocated; whether a permanent commercial refrigerator would be required; and whether the Sourcewell grant process would require city sign‑off. Carmen from the health department inspected equipment, according to the operator, and staff noted a temporary special event permit would allow food service for only up to 10 days per year if a permanent three‑compartment sink is not in place.

Council members repeatedly framed the item as a matter for staff and the city attorney to formalize. The result of the May 19 discussion was direction to staff to continue coordinating with the applicant, check past arrangements and liability coverage, and draft a written concession agreement for council consideration rather than an immediate vote or authorization to operate long term.

Less critical details discussed included the operator's plan to broaden beneficiaries of concession proceeds (to schools and local groups rather than a single program), the possibility of card payments instead of cash only, and interest in covering electrical costs so volunteer operators would not be responsible.

The council did not take a formal vote on the concessions; instead staff were assigned to return with a proposed agreement and legal review.