The URL can be used to link to this page

00-698ORIGlNAL Presented By Referred To OF � � Council File # O O— b�lg' GreenSheet# ��3q9G RESOLUTION AINT PAUL, OTA i� , l5 Committee: Date 1 WHEREAS, Las Americas, Inc., d/b/a Las Americas, Inc., at 178 Concord Street applied 2 to the Minnesota Depariment of Commerce for a currency exchange license at that location; and 4 WHEREAS, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §53A.04 the application was submitted to Saint Paul 5 for approval or disapproval, and notice of the application was duly given by the Office of LIEP 6 of the itttention to consider the application; and 8 WHEREAS, objections were received to the issuance of the license, and a hearing was 9 held before an Administrative Law Judge to determine whether there existed grounds to 10 recommend denial of the license to the Deparhnent of Commerce; and 11 12 WHEREAS, the Administrative Law Judge heard testimony from the organizations 13 opposed to issuance of the license, but issued a Report in which he made conclusions that the 14 record did not support a denial and recommended that the license be approved; now, therefore, be 15 it 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 RESOLVED, that the Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation of the Administrative Law Judge aze hereby accepted as the findings of the Council in this matter and are incorporated herein by reference, and the Council recommends approval of the currency exchange license application by Las Americas Inc. at 178 Concord Street to the Minnesota Department of Commerce. 1 00- 6q8' 2 A copy of this Resolufion, as adopted, shall be sent by first class mail to the licensee and 3 the Aduiinistrative Law Judge. ORIGiNAL Requested by Department of: By: Foxm Approved City At rney By: �� Approved by or for Submission to Council By: � —'_ Approved by Mayor: Date �� By: Adopted by Council: Date �a� Adoptioa Certified by Counci2 Se retary 00 —�qK City Attorney �/2s/oo GREEN SHEET No1Q3°9o. Palmer August 2, 2000 wn Rolrtv6 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES ov�ru�rcrae arccauri � arc�lrouEx ❑ aneteuc ❑ m�xcuaamucoo�c ❑ wwau�a�nuYro ❑ wvdelw��amrairtl ❑ (CIJP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATUR� Finalizing City Council action taken July 12, 2000, adopting the Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation of the Administrative Law Judge recommending approval of the currency exchange license application to th Minnesota Department of Commerce by Las Americas, Inc. at 178 Concord Street. PLANNING COMMISSION CIB COMMfTTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Has itus vgsaJfirm eoxrwrrked undera � tarNic deyaAmenl7 YES NO Has this O�eoNfirm aver been a aty empbyee7 . vES NO Dces this PaisoMrm P� a sldll not rarmalypo�e�e0 bY �Y eurteM edY emPbYee? res rm i. m� ce�o�x� a a!ne�ea �on vES rio � � �ea �� ny_��:r.��.� AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION f COST/REYENUE BUDGETm (CIRCLE ON� YEE NO ACTIVrtYNUMBER . •�. �:_ �!z � .•:. �. oo•�t$' -: Public hearing to consider the report of the Administrative Law Judge concerning the Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc., 178 Concord Street. Note: Since the ALJ hearing on this matter was just held on July 5, the report will not be available until the early part of next week. i�� OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY CI¢ytors M. Robinson, Ja, City Attorney � D�q � �� CITY OF SA1NT PAUL Norm Colemnn, Mrsyor June 26, 2000 CivilDivision 400CiryHa11 Telephane:651266-8710 ISWestKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:G51298-5619 Sainr P¢ul, Minnuota 55101 NOTICE OF HEARING �'�`` �`�� :i;i i.n� v � � �a. - Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmental Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce of your currency exchange license application for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your appiication by the local governing body after published notice and pubiic hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381.02 requires that if objections are received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their objection is as follows: The REDA is opposed to any business wLose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a d'srect increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a pubiic hearing has been scheduled to consider your license appiication. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paui City Hall/Ramsey County Courthouse, room 41,15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especially if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. Page 2 Odelia Ortega June 26, 2000 •• • 1 Saint Paul Le�slative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license applicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of adininistering and processing the cunency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code further requires the applicant to reunburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be billed for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, / �� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 1�0 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Cozrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Boazd President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY Gayton M. Robinson, Jr., Ciry Attorney C'2�-(p�'f� CITY OF SAINT PAUL Norm Coleman, Mayor June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street civftDivistoa 400 CiryHa71 Telephone: 657 266-87l0 lSWertKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:651298-5619 Saint Paul, Minnuota SSIA2 NOTICE OF COUNCIL HEARING E „ �� t�Q�'�! �r'�''_ Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 �� RE: Currency Exchange License ApphcaYiori of Las Americas, Inc. d!b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul ' � �„,_ , ��._ . __ � Dear Ms. Ortega: Please take notice that a hearing on the report of the Administrative Law Judge conceming the above-mentioned license application has been scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2000, in the City Council Chambers, Third Floor, Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse. You have the opportunity to file exceptions to the report with the City Clerk at any time during norxnal business hours. You may also present oral or written argument to the council at the Hearing. No new evidence will be received or testimony taken at this hearing. The Council will base its decision on the record of the proceedings before the Administrative Law Judge and on the arguments made and exceptions filed, but may depart from the recommendations of such Judge as permitted by law in the exercise of its judgement and discretion. Sincerely, �� Virginia D. Paimer Assistant City Attorney cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Robert Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Cirizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 JUL. -D1' OOIFRII 14�20 OfPICE OF A�M[N. HEARfNG TEL:61Z3492665 P.001 i� • • 1-2'111-12950-3 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CfTY OF ST. PAUL in the Matter of the LiGense App4ication of FINDINGS OF FACT. Las Americas, Inc. d/h/a Las Americas, CONCLUSIONS AND Inc. for the Premises located at 178 RECOMMENPATION Concord Streat in St. Paul The above-entitled matter came on for hearing before Administrative Law Judge George A. Seck, serving as hearing officer for the St. Paul City Council on July 5, 2000 at 1:30 p,m. in Room 41, St. Paul City Hall, Ramsey County Courthouse. The record closed at the conclusion of the hearing. Virginia D. Paimer, Assistant Gity Attorney, 400 City Hali, 15 West Kellogg Bivd., St. Paul, MN 55102, appeared on behalf of the Offce of License, Inspeckions and Environmental Protection {LIEP). Jo�dan S. Kuschner, Attorney at Law, 529 South Seventh Street, Suite 636, Minneapolis, MN 55415, appeared representing Las Americas, Inc, OTIC This Report is a recommendation, �ot a final decision. The Sf. Paul City Council will make the final decision after a review of the record and may adopt, reject or modify these Findings of Fact, ConGusions and Recommendation. Under Section 310.05(ej(c-1) of the City's Legislative Code, the City Council will provide the applicant the opportunity to present oral or written argument to the City Council before it takes final action. Patties should contact the St. Paul City Council to determine to the procedure for presenting argument. STATEM�NT OF ISSUE Should this application for a currency exchange license be approved by the St, Paul City Council? Based upon all of the proceedings herein, the Administretive Law Judge makes the following: FfNDiNGS OF FACT �. On May 16, 2000 the DepaRment of Commerce forwarded an application for a cutrency exchange license to the City of St. Paul. The application had been submitted to the Department by Odelia Ortega, to operate a JUL-07-2000 14�44 6123492665 96i P.01 JUL. -07' 00 (FRf I 14:20 OFFICE OF ADMIN. HE�RING TEL:6123492665 a currency exchange business at 17B Concord Avenue in St. Paul. The application indicates ihat the name of the currency exchange wi11 be las Americas, Inc., which is a Minnesota corporation.' . 2. A sea�ch of criminal history filed by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension found no record for Odelia drtega. 3. The proposed location fo� the currency exchange is not within one- half mite of another licansed currency exchange. 4. The currency exchange is proposed to be located in a grocery store aiready operated by Las Americas, lnc. at the proposed location. 5. The operation of a currency exchange at the proposed location is consistent with the St. Paul Zoning Code. 6. The proposed location is in compliance with the fire and health requirements of the City of 5t. Paul. 7. The grocery store at the proposed location is the primary business at that location, aithough if also offers other services such as check cashing and Western Union. Approximately 98% of the customers are Hispanic and many do not speak English. B. At the present time the grocery store at the proposed location is ahle to cash checks under state law if the fee is Isss than 1%. 9. There are approximately 11 businesses within one mile of the proposed focalion that can cash checks, including a community bank. 10. lJpon receipt of the appiication from the Department of Commerce the City provided notice of the appiication to community organizations. In a letter dated June 12, 2000 the president of the Riverview Economic Qevelopment Association (REDA) advised the Ci1y ihat it was objecting to the issuance of the currency exchange license. 11. On June 26, 2000 the City issued a Notice of Hearing on the application which set a hearing for July 5, 2000. 12. The Notice of Public Hearing was published in the St. Paul Legal tedgar on June 29, 200� 6 'Ex.�. 'Ex.1. 3 Ex, A. " Ex. 2. 6 Ex. 3. 6 Ex. 5. P. OC? �-�98 JUL-07-2000 14:44 6123492665 96i P.02 JUL. -07' OO IFRI) 14:2a n OFFICE OF AOMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P. 00's pD —f��d� 13. The Board of Directors of REAR objects to granting the iioense because it believes that a check cashing business does not fit in with the desired retail categories in the business area.' REDA believes there are adequate check cashing opportunities in the district and that adding another one may increase criminal activities such as robbery or money laundering. 14. REDA's concerns do noi include any concern about Mr. or Ms. Qrtega. 15. in a letter dated June 22, 2000 the West Side Citizens Organization advised the City that its building and land use committee was recommending the deniai of the license because it believes thaf there are ample opportunities for people fo exchange currency in the area, and that the license does not fit into the community's plan for development. Based upon the foregoing Findings ofi Fact, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: CO NCLUSfONS 1. The City Council of the City of St. Paul and the Administrative Law Judge have jurfsdiction in this matter pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 14.55 and the St, Paui Legislative Code §§ 310.05, 310.06 and 361.02. 2. The City of St. Paul has fulfilled a{I rele�ant substantive and procedural requirements of law and rule. 3. The City of St. Paul has given proper notica of the hearing in this matter including propar notice in accordance with the requirements set forth in Minn. Stat. Ch. 53A and § 3B1 of the Legisiative Code of the City of St. Paul. 4. 7he applicant has complied with the application requirements set out in law. 5. St. Paul Legislative Code Section 381.03(b)(4)(i) provides that a currency exchange license may be disapproved if: The location of a new currency exchange as proposed would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighboThoods within three hundred {30�) feet of the exchange. Such anticipated effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. 7 Ex. 2. B Ex. A. ° Ex. B. JUL-07-2009 14:45 6123492665 96i P.03 JUL.-07'00(FRI� 14:20 OFFICE OF A�KIN.NE�RING TEL:612349?665 6. That the record in this matter does not show by clear and convincing evidence that the location of the proposed currancy exchange would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhood. Based upon the fo�egoing Conclusions, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: RECOMMENDATION 17 IS HEREBY RESPECTFULLY RECOMMENQED: That the St. Paul City Council approve the currency exchange iicense application of Las Americas, inc. for tha premises located at 178 Concord Street in Sf. Paul. Dated this � �� jrl .': 7th day of July 200�. .� GEORGE A. B K Administrative Law Judge Reported: Taped, No Transcript Prepared. NOTICE Pursuant to Minn. Stai. § 53A.Q4, the St. Paul City Council is required to forward its approval or disapproval of the license application to the Commissioner of Commerce of the State of Minnesota for the Commissioner's approval or disapproval. If the application is denied, the Commissioner shall mail notice of the denial a�d the reason therefor to the applicant. 7he applicant, upon denial, may request a further hearing as provided for in Minn. Stat. § 53A.Q4(b). MEMoRANDUM A hearing in this matter was scheduled due to objections to the currency exchartge license application by the Riverside Economic Development Association and the West Side Citizens Organization. Their specific objections are set out at Findings of Fact Nos. 13-15. LIEP staff testified that the application satisfied the technical requirements of statute and legislative code. The legislative code also provides, however, that the location of a new currency exchange can be disapproved if it would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts on the neighborhoods within 300 feet of the exchange, 7he Legislative Code sets out a stringent burden of proof for those attempting to show significant adverse consequences-such an effect must be shown by cfear and convincing evidence. TUL-07-2000 14�45 6123492665 96� P•� JUL. -07' 00(FRII 14:21 OFF(CE OF A�NIh. HEARING iEL:612349?665 Both of the objecting organizations made it clear that they do not object to Mr, or Mrs, Ortega. They operate 10 grocery stores in the metropolitan area and provide significant services to the Hispanic commun'ity. 7he otganizat�ons object, rather, to the nature of the 6usiness and are concemed that it may cause an increase in crime. They also believe that opportunities currently exist to cash checks. The concerns presented by the organizations do not amount fo a showing of significant adverse consequences by clear and convincing evidence. The concern about criminal activity is speculafive. The record shows that check cashing oppoRunifies in the neighborhood will not be a new service. 7he license wi11 permit the applicant to charge somewhat higher fees but it will also be accompanied by regulation by the Minnesota Department of Commerce that should ameliorate some of the concerns expressed. As the applicant pointed out, the currency exchange will not be the primary function at this location and it is likely better to have such a license contained within a grocery store than in a stand alone facility. The record does not indicate that there have been any complaints about the existing check cash(ng service at Las Americas, Inc. Accordingly, it is recommended that the City Council approve the license application. G.A.B. P. 005 p Q� �D JUL-07-20E0 14�46 6123492665 96� P.aS �� `� °.i= ��` y _�� ` �%i�$T� l July 11, 2000 STATE OF MINNESOTA O�'FICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota 5540�-2138 Fred Owusu, City Clerk 170 Ciiy Hail 15 West Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: in the Matter of the License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the Premises located at 178 concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Mr. Owusu: �CE►V�p dUC 112000 CITY �LE Enclosed please find the original Affidavit of Service in the above matter which is to be attached to the original Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Recommendation which was sent to you on July 7, 2000. Also enclosed is a copy of the hearing tape in the above matter. Sincerely, �,�li�¢,rr�c�C� .�C� - U GEORGE A. BECK � Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 GAB:cr Encl. Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 � TDD No. (612) 341-7346 s Fax No. (612) 349-2665 STATE OF MINNESOTA} ) Ss COUNTY OF HENNEPIN} AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE BY U.S. MAIL Cindy Ringdahl, being first dufy sworn, hereby deposes and says that on the 7th day of J�, 2000, at the City of Minneapolis, county and state aforementioned, she served the attached FINDINGS OF FACT, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION: OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 by depositing in the United States mail at said City of Minneapolis, a true and correct copy thereof, properly enveloped, with first class postage prepaid and addressed to the individuals named herein. Fred Owusu, City Clerk 170 City Hall 15 West Keflogg Bivd. St. Paul, MN 55902 Jordan S.Kuschner Attorney at Law 529 S. 7 St., Suite 636 IV�inneapolis, MN 55415 Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attorney 15 W. Kellogg Blvd., Suite 400 St. Paul, MN 55902 Riverview Economic Dev. Assn. 176 Concord St. St. Paul, MN 55107 r Cindy Ring a I Subscribed and sworn to before me this 7th day of Juiy , 2000. LaVON REGAN woewr rueue • �sm� AAY COMMISSION EXpIRES JANUAflY 3t.2005 ��`-,"� � ��.�" f .�.. �'"�� ` —_� July 7, 2000 STATE OF MINNE50TA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota55401-2138 �£C�YE� Fred Owusu, City Clerk �� 200� 170 City Hall CITY CLERK 15 West Kellogg Bivd. St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: ln the Matter of the License Application of Las Americas, inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the Premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Mr. Owusu: 00 �� Enclosed herewith and served upon you by maif is the Administrative Law Judge's Findings of Fact, Conciusions and Recommendation in the above- entitled matter. A1so enclosed is the official record, Our file in this matter is now being closed. Sincerely, �\�� C GEORGE A. BECK Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 GAB:cr Encl. cc: Virginia D. Palmer Jordan S. Kuschner REDA .,� . Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 � TDD No. (612) 341-7346 o Fax No. (612) 349-2665 ob-�R� 1-2111-12950-3 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ST. PAUL In the Matter of the License Application of FINDINGS OF FACT. Las Americas, inc. d/b/a Las Americas, CONCLUSIONS AND Inc. for the Premises located at 178 RECOMMENDATION Concord Street in St. Paul The above-entitled matter came on for hearing before Administrative Law Judge George A. Beck, serving as hearing officer for the St. Paul City Council on July 5, 2000 at 1:30 p.m. in Room 41, St. Paul City Hall, Ramsey County Courthouse. The record closed at the conclusion of the hearing. Virginia D. Pa{mer, Assistant City Attorney, 400 City HaA, 15 West Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55102, appeared on behalf of the Office of License, Inspections and Environmental Protection (LIEP). Jordan S. Kuschner, Attorney at Law, 529 South Seventh Street, Suite 636, Minneapoiis, MN 55415, appeared representing Las Americas, Inc. NOTICE This Report is a recommendation, not a final decision. The St. Paul City Council will make the final decision after a review of the record and may adopt, reject or modify these Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Recommendation. Under Section 310.05(c)(c-1) of the City's Legislative Code, the City Council will provide the applicant the opportunity to present oral or written argument to the City Council before it takes final action. Parties should contact the St. Paul City Council to determine to the procedure for presenting argument. STATEMENT OF ISSUE Should this application for a currency exchange license be approved by the St. Paul City Council? Based upon all of the proceedings herein, the Administrative Law Judge makes the fallowing: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. On May 16, 2000 the Department of Commerce forwarded an application for a currency exchange license to the City of St. Paul. The application had been submitted to the Department by Odelia Ortega, to operate a �o -�q � a currency exchange business at 178 Concord Avenue in St. Paul. The application indicates that the name of the currency exchange will be Las Americas, Inc., which is a Minnesota corporation.� 2. A search of criminal history filed by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension found no record for Odelia Ortega? 3. The proposed location for the currency exchange is not within one- half mile of another licensed currency exchange. 4. The currency exchange is proposed to be located in a grocery store already operated by Las Americas, Inc. at the proposed location. 5. The operation of a currency exchange at the proposed location is consistent with the St. Paul Zoning Code. 6. The proposed location is in compliance with the fire and health requirements of the City of St. Paul. 7. The grocery store at the proposed location is the primary business at that location, although it also offers other services such as check cashing and Western Union. Approximately 98% of the customers are Hispanic and many do not speak English. 8. At the present time the grocery store at the proposed location is able to cash checks under state law if the fee is less than 1%. 9. There are approximately 11 businesses within one mile of the proposed location that can cash checks, including a community bank. 10. Upon receipt of the application from the Department of Commerce the City provided notice of the application to community organizations. In a letter dated June 12, 2000 the president of the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA) advised the City that it was objecting to the issuance of the currency exchange license. 11. On June 26, 2000 the City issued a Notice of Hearing on the application which set a hearing for July 5, 2000. 12. The Notice of Public Hearing was published in the St. Paul Legal Ledger on June 29, 2000. ' Ex. 1. Z Ex.1. 3 Ex. A. 4 Ex. 2. 5 Ex. 3. 6 Ex. 5. 00-�98� 13. The Board of Directors of REDA objects to granting the license because it believes that a check cashing business does not fit in with the desired retail categories in the business area.' REDA believes there are adequate check cashing opportunities in the district and that adding another one may increase criminal activities such as robbery or money laundering. 14. REDA's concerns do not include any concern about Mr. or Ms. Ortega. 15. in a letter dated June 22, 2000 the West Side Citizens Organization advised the City that its building and land use committee was recommending the denial of the license because it believes that there are ample opportunities for people to exchange currency in the area, and that the license does not fit into the community's plan for development. Based upon the foregoing Findings of Fact, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: CONCLUSIONS 1. The City Council of the City of St. Paul and the Administrative Law Judge have jurisdiction in this matter pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 14.55 and the St. Paul Legislative Code §§ 310.05, 310.06 and 381.02. 2. The City of St. Paul has fulfilled all relevant substantive and procedural requirements of law and rule. 3. The City of St. Paul has given proper notice of the hearing in this matter including proper notice in accordance with the requirements set forth in Minn. Stat. Ch. 53A and § 381 of the Legislative Code of the City of St. Paul. 4. The applicant has complied with the application requirements set out in law. 5. St. Paul Legislative Code Section 381.03(b)(4)(i} provides that a currency exchange license may be disapproved if: 7he location of a new currency exchange as proposed would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhoods within three hundred (300) feet of the exchange. Such anticipated effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. ' Ex. 2. $ Ex. A. 9 Ex. B. o�-� � �' 6. That the record in this matter does not show by clear and convincing evidence that the location of the proposed currency exchange would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhood. Based upon the foregoing Conclusions, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: RECOMMENDATION IT IS HEREBY RESPECTFULLY RECOMMENDED: That the St. Paul City Council approve the currency exchange license application of Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul. Dated this 7th day of July 2000. �:� GEORGE A. B K Administrative Law Judge Reported: Taped, No Transcript Prepared. NOTICE Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 53A.04, the St. Paul City Council is required to forward its approval or disapproval of the license application to the Commissioner of Commerce of the State of Minnesota for the Commissioner's approval or disapproval. If the application is denied, the Commissioner shall mail notice of the denial and the reason therefor to the applicant. The applicant, upon denial, may request a further hearing as provided for in Minn. Stat. § 53A.04(b). MEMORANDUM A hearing in this matter was scheduled due to objections to the currency exchange license application by the Riverside Economic Development Association and the West Side Citizens Organization. Their specific objections are set out at Findings of Fact Nos. 13-15. LIEP staff testified that the application satisfied the technical requirements of statute and legislative code. The legislative code also provides, however, that the location of a new currency exchange can be disapproved if it would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts on the neighborhoods within 300 feet of the exchange. The Legislative Code sets out a stringent burden of proof for those attempting to show significant adverse consequences-such an effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. oD�� Both of the objecting organizations made it clear that they do not object to Mr. or Mrs. Ortega. They operate 10 grocery stores in the metropolitan area and provide significant services to the Hispanic community. The organizations object, rather, to fhe nature of the business and are concemed that it may cause an increase in crime. They also believe that opportunities currently exist to cash checks. The concerns presented by the organizations do not amount to a showing of significant adverse consequences by clear and convincing evidence. The concern about criminal activity is speculative. The record shows that check cashing opportunities in the neighborhood will not be a new service. The license will permit the applicant to charge somewhat higher fees but it will also be accompanied by regulation by the Minnesota Department of Commerce that should ameliorate some of the concerns expressed. As the applicant pointed out, the currency exchange will not be the primary function at this location and it is likely better to have such a license contained within a grocery store than in a stand alone facility. The record does not indicate that there have been any complaints about the existing check cashing service at Las Americas, Inc. Accordingly, it is recommended that the City Council approve the license application. C�L'�3'- � � � OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAINT PAUL IN RE THE MATfER OF THE LICENSE APPLICATION OF LAS AMERICAS, INC. D/B/A LAS AMERICAS, INC. 178 CONCORD STREET SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA 55107 bo CITY'S PROPOSED EXHIBITS July 5, 2000 TO: Judge George A. Beck, Administrative Law Judge, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401- 2138 The following constitutes a list of the City's proposed exhibits for the Administrative Hearing on Wednesday, July 5, 2000. Exhibit No. Exh. No. 1 Exh. No. 2 Exh. No. 3 Exh. No. 4 Description Currency Exchange License Application material from the State of Minnesota, Department of Commerce (15 pp.); Letter from Riverview Economic Development Association, dated June 12, 2000, with attachments (3 pp.); Notice of Hearing dated June 26, 2000, with Affidavit of Service (3 pp.); Notice of Public Hearing for publication (1 p.); Exh. No. 5 Publication notice and Affidavit of Publication for Thursday, June 29, 2000 t� p•)• � bo��g� Also attached please find courtesy copies of applicable State of Minnesota statutes and St. Paul City ordinances: St. Pau1 Legislative Code Chapter 381 Minnesota Statute Chapter 53A RespectFully submitted this 5th day of July, 2000. .� a Virginia . Palmer Assistant City Attorney Office of the City Attorney 400 City Hall 15, West Kellogg Boulevard Saint Pauf, Minnesota 55102 (612)266-8719 Do-t�9� MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMII�RCE Financial Examinafions Division May 15, 2000 City Clerk City of St. Paul 170 City Hall St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: Currency Exchange License Application Las Americas, Jnc. Deaz City Clerk: FtfCEf�JEf3 MAY 16 200U CI�Y �i�ERI( Enclosed is a copy of an application submitted by Odelia Ortega to operate a cunency exchange business at 178 Concord Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota. The name ofthe currency exchange company is Las Americas, Inc. ' Minnesota Statute 53A.04 (a) states: "Within 30 days after the receipt of a complete application, the commissioner shall deny the application or submit the application to the goveming body of the locai unit of government in which the applicant is located or is proposing to be located. The commissioner may not approve the application without the concurrence of the goveming body. The goveming body shall give published notice of its intention to consider the issue and shall solicit testimony from interested persons, including those in the community in which the applicant is located or is proposing to be located. If the governing body has not approved or disapproved the issue within 60 days of receipt of the application, concurrence is presumed. The commissioner must approve or disapprove the application within 30 days from receiving the decision of the goveming body. The governing body shall have the sole responsibility for its decision. The state shall have no responsibility for that decision." Please respond in writing within 60 days of the receipt of this notice as to the decision of the governing body regarding the application for the currency exchange operation. If I do not hear from you within 60 days, approval will be presumed and the license will be issued. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. V e truly yours, ��/ �^� - ��'r Robin H. Brown Financial Examinations Division (651)282-9855 Enclosure cc: Odelia Ortega 133 East Seventh Street, St. Paul, MN 55101-2333 Telephone (651) 296-2135 • Fax (651) 296-8591 • TTY/IDD (651) 296-2860 e-mail: financialC�state.mn.us Web Site: www.commerce.stz -°- •�� _ An Fyual Opportunity En �."..'"..`' .."`......b� ,.,,.,.,,.�.. �Ny......�..,,. .,. �, -�,as Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc.— City's Exh. No. l . ::;- STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTNIENT OF COMMERCE DFVISION OF FINANCIAL EXAMINATIONS 133 EAST 7TFI STREET ST. PAUL, NIINNESOTA 55101 (651)282-9855 OFFICE USE ONLY Deputy Asst. Chief Review Data Entry Curtency Ecchange . CASHIER USE ONLY Staze of A�Gnnea �� comm�ra OCT 21 1999 i vi; °�" ^� License Number Processing Date l(�� ' . i S�rety Bond Number . � y �� loCo �.... CURRENCY EXCHAl\GE Insurance Company NAIC Number LICENSE APPLICATION vri i�L .t n�rtr4--l�ns Cm, ,!n The data, which you furnish on this form, will be used hy the Departrnent of Commerce to assess your qualificarions for a Iicense. Disclosure of your social security number is voluntlry. You are not legally required to provide this data; however, if you do not provide your social security number, the Department of Commerce may be unable to grant a license. The Department may use social security numbers for revenue recapture as authorized by Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 270A 1nd for identificadon purposes. After issuance of a license, all information contained in this appiication, except your social secnrity number, is public pursuant'to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13. TYPE OF LICENSE NEW RENEWAL B. APPLICANT INFOT2MATIOIV NAME OP CURREI�iCY EXCHANGE �aS Amcr�c,o�, 1 NC NAME OF CORPORATTON OR PARTNERSt-iIP O AMENDED LICENSE BUSINESS ADDRESS (No Post Office Boxes) _ / �8_ c'� �a..� �'�. I, 1'yiv�J CITY STATE ZIP CODE ; an �-�- �- -� NAME OP DIVIDUAL MANAGINC THIS LOCATION TELEPHONE NUMBER � FAX NUMBER �c« � �2�-33 7� t��.> ��.�-330� Check one: O SOLE PROPRIETQRSHIP O PARTI3ERSHIP � CORPORATION � l0�/•em �i �"19 � � i vtrit�c-,� Date Place of � cvti r��d1 .. 1.,�; S G'�° � n�c � $� sz MN/DOC CURRENCY EXCHANGE APPL 7/99 1 / o'l COUNTY /' �- ri STATE TA ID NUMBER �`�4 4�� E-MAIL ADDRESS O ASSOCIATION 0 LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP O LIMITED LIABTLITY COMPANY �i State 8!4/1994 STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE DIVISION OF FINAIYCIAL EXAMINATIONS 133 EAST TTH STREET � ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA 55101 (651) 282-9855 ❑ RENEWAL CASHIER USE ONLY 0�-�9� License Number Processing Date _ • '3 ��:� � = t _:�� Surety Bond Number `�:�• CURRENCY EXCHANGE Insurance Company NAIC Number LICENSE APPLICATION The data, which you furnish on this form, will be used by the Department of Commerce to assess your qualifications for a license. Disclosure of your social security number is voluntary. You are not legally required to provide this data; however, if you do not provide your social security number, the Department of Commerce may be unable to grant a license. The Department may use social security numbers for revenue recapture as authorized by Minnesota Scatutes, Chapter 270A and for identification purposes. After issuance o€.a license, all information contained in this application, except your social security number, is public pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13. A. TYPE OF ] , �iJ` NEW , INFORMATION OFFICE USE ONLY Deputy Asst. Chief Review Data Entry Cu�renry Excha¢ge O AMENDED LICENSE NAN� vr �:.unKENCY EXCHANGE �As RVYtCR�CAS 1�vc I3AME OF CORPORATIOI3 OR PARTNERSI�' �,AS �mer�cas, 1i1IG. BL3SIlVESS ADDRESS (No Post Office Boxes) 1�� Co vi c � Q � e. CITY �/ STATE ZIP CODE 5�• �G�t�e� �1'l, f Vt neSvfw S.5 l0 7 NAME OF LvDIVIDUAL M NAGING THIS LOCATION O �h��. DOL� q� TELEPHOi�iE NUMBER FAX NUMBER (�tz)g2� (Gf�.) g2.�-3308 Check one: Cal Date of ❑ SOLE PROPRIETORSHtP ❑ PARTi�IERSHIP J�I CORPORATION r��eY (`� 1 � �ora[ion or Orsanization i41'Vi S-� STATE TAX ID 0 ASSOCIATION O LIMITED LIABILTI'Y PARTNERSHIP O LIMTTED LIABILTTY CO�ANY Se� t � �u-,-, �/ Sf�- 4t. fL��. r�n� �wrns�v Wi t'V Place State MN/DOC CURRENCY EXCHANGE APPL 7/99 1 �3�� C. Addiuonal Iicensed currency exchange tocations operated by the applicant (use separate sheet if addirio�� j space is needed). � fj _�� ! Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) �1� d {�l �2 � City State Zip Code co�ncy � Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County � Street Address (P.O. Boxes aze not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County � Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County D. Please ptovide the names and complece business addresses of owners, partners, offcers, stockholders (owning 10% or more of the corporate stock), and employees with authority to exercise management or policy cantrol over the company. Pull Name Official Percent Residence Social Security girth Date Title Ownershi Address Number DcP c 1��c Cl� � r r r . (�o% !v -. z«kt s�. � i 2 $. AI.L applicants must answer the following questions. If any questions are answered "YES," you MUST attach a detailed writtea explanation and any legal documentation, if apQlicable. �j� „( Have you, any of the owners, partners, officers, managers, directors, or shareholders owning more than 10% of the corporate stock: YFS NO O � 1. Held a currency exchange license in any o[her state other fihan ivIinnesota? If YFS, the new licec�se application must include a uerification of Sicense certified by the state(s); all other applicaats must verify that the certification(s) previonsly submitted is accurate. u 0 C � 2. Been the subject of any inquiry or investigation by any division oF the Minnesota Department of Conuaerce? l� 3. Had any occupatioaal license cansured, suspended, revoked, caucelled, terrninated or been . the subject of any type of administrative acuon in any state including Minnesota? � 4. Have you ever been charged with, or convicted of, or been indicted for, or entered a plea to, any criminal offense (felony, gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor), other thln ll�affic violations, in any State or Federal Court? O �7 5. Been a defendant in any lawsuit involving claims of fraud, misrepresentarion, conversion, mismanagement of funds or breach of contract? O O O O a f,�1 6. Been notified by the Commissioner of Revenue, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section �� 270A.72, that you currently owe the St�ite of Minnesota taxes? � 7. Have any unclaimed properry (unclaimed Funds or property over 3 years old) to report under �� Minnesota Statutes, Sec[ion 34537? f� 8. Filed for bankruptcy or protection from creditors or currently have outstanding unsatisfied judgment(s)? iv �.� 9. Been affiliated with any other currency exchange? 10. Wiil the applicant sell lottery tickets a[ the licensed location? I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION AND ANY ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS ARE TRUE AND CORRECT TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE. I CERTIFY THAT THIS DOCUMENT HAS NOT BEEN ALTERED OR CHANGED II�t ANY MANNER FROM THE FORM ADOPTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE. l ° � � �'t Signature of Owner,�P aal� �f4 � Print Name of Owner, or Corporate Officer � ��-�---� rr sic�-� ; ,d or Corporate Officer 3 � �� 5 � �' `.�t �`' �/ � f . °`-�`'"�- I � � � 7�� r c �r�s�� C�. -� ��r � �/� ��- � C'i9 sh-��s G�-i �f �` ; �, po -�R� � � 5 � yyt � s, �� ,vG�- �_� �� j 7 � ��,,,�� !/1'I {� S S !� 7 , �U'yt Cvl� /d�`/ . j �. � � G° "'` P � � I s w�� h.��-�- v� -� ��i � � � • RODOlFO G. TRUJILLO A /� / � �� /� G� � ' IIpTpRY PUBLIC-NINNESOTA d l 1VC%��` � / pnMS�' coue+rr 1 Wycomm. �ras Jan. s1, ZOD� ��l � ., / 1 �_ � / V �� C c� r r-� � �� -e s �hY �� 1� , nRyTO l i- �r ��s��, �---�- v � J �D= _ a.• C��k'S ��e-�- , �- p � ro ,� c � �ks �h��-e.. �Ioo ��, ��e, 00-�9� d �� `b - o�, �� F �,(�.,Q C� �"r �-c- �-e S S �..Q�a u- S U C�9��.,.�r�.i��/ s � . . � `, . � 00�9� STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTMEI3T OF PUBLIC SAFETY BUREAtT OF CRIMINAL APPREHENSION CRIMINAL JUSTICE INFORMATION SYSTEM SECTION 1246 UNIVBRSITY AVB, ST PAL7L, MN 551�4 - 4197 (651) 642-0670 TTY (651) 282-6555 ' Date: 1999/O8/31 Name: ORTEGA, ODELIA UNKNOWN DOB; 1960/02f28 SEQ #: 1420 This letter certifies that a search has been made of the criminal history files maintained in Minnesota by the Department of Public: Safety, Bareau of Criminal Apprehension. The search was performed by Name and Date of Birth. The result of this search indicates that no record was found based on the above search criteria. This does not preclude the possible existence o£ adcTitional information located at county or city levels. If you have questions about this record please contact the telephone number above. «� 3 � �� . ,�� e r 1 -�-c � �1J81�� '"�e�R �,� S.�,fi �,N 5 �n'►�'�� ,o s� L 1�C- � 3`�d �_ �,��-� 5� ��J G 5� jtit YI� S S`� D 23 u ,pr�s��-� � o( � � �G��s - 1�� 5 ��,.�.��.,�,��: � -t��3 �°��- � �h S�. C�°`�'"', ��-h � y�t�l�, �`'� S5�/ � 5(�,.&� �r�n �'' mol.-1�,�� ; �,� `- '- �.� _ , ��'�a� ��- � �x State of yiinnesota O�ca of the Secratzry of State ARTICLES O� I�ICORPORATlaN - Chap4er 302A � � • The undersigned�incorporators, who are natural persons 18 years of ;ge or older, in order to form a corpo�ate entity under Minnesota Statutes, 302A, adopt the foilowing articfas of incorporation: ARTICLE i The nartte of this corporation is: Corpontion Name fmust helW� a corpown The registered office of this eorporotion is located at: Saeet A lYbu may nut ' n P.0.8ox} Cicy, S�at T� � E. � � . � ARTICLE il � Soa inam:c'an¢ en rovur.s sida }er eom�la4.'t3 thiitotm. 3�.9� �s �0�9�� SSJt b 8 I �a�, �M . The registered agent at that address is (Note: Th2 appoinUnent of an agent is optionaqc � Nam�otAfl�nt � • �� , . � , ARTICIE UI Numb�r of Sha+es The corporaticn is authorized ta issus an aggregate totaf of: JO 0 � U (You must list a minimum of one share in this box.) � .� '�' - � , ARTICIs tV 9 � •rua. . We, the undersigned incorporators certify that we are authorized to execute these articles end we further certify Lhat we understand that by signing thesa articles, we are subjecc to tha penaities of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if we had signed these articies under oath. . . '` � rhe names and addresses of tfie incorporators are (Note: Onty one ��corporator is required under Section 302A.105;: Nsrtq ; �7Dc%�a �xrE�,�. Addrnss (mey nat be a port otR:� box) iyUS� Do:u/�.vy H✓-,V % ��/. 55 S� /�- STATE sc ooi�i-0z A incoryoretor'z Sipnawro (Att incorporston must siqn thc articlas) Od.��'� �.�� MlNNESOTA NT Of 57AiF �iLED . { 1 � 1992 � �/�7cmw� : i�l � �'i.'� i • OVER Ofl3 ��'� �ECRETI�RY�Q� STATE state of Minn� CERTIFICATB OF INCORPORATIOH 319 po�9� � I; Joan Anderson Groxe, Secretary of State oE xinnesota, do certiEy that: Articles oE Incorporation, -- � duly signed and acknovledg.ed oath, have been Eiled on this date in the OfEice oE the Secretar�+ of State, £or the � incorQoration oE the Eolloving corporatzon, under and in accordance.with the provisions oE the.chapter of I{innesota Statutes listed belov. - This corporation is nor+ legally under the lavs of ?tinnesota. � Corporate Nane: Las A�nericas, Inc. eo�porate Charter Nunber: 7P-502 Chapter Forsed Under: 302A � D. �.� -r S T 7�Q ��73�2bS � � / 9� �o .6:� �� Secretary of Sta[e. � This certi£icate has been issued on 11/17/1$92. I ......:.....:...... �: ,:�. �. ��,� ��- _,, ;.._.z�: : :rF _ .y .�: �� yJ . :, , - .., Minnesota Secretary of State . � Annual Regist�ation for Minnesota � Business Corporations . •.. fife by Dec. 31, 1997 � - � Do not send this form to the Department of Revenu� 00 :�R �. M-SS i- All infomution on this form is available to the public. Read the instructions on the back before completing. . Information on lines 1 and 2 must match the infomiaHon in your original azlicles of incorporation or subsequent amendments. T'his forni cannot be used Eo make any changes to your articles of inmrporafion. If there aze any changes to lines 1 br 2 of this form, you must amend your articles of incorporation separaEely. An amendment form and $35 filing fee must be included with your annual registrafion. You may obtain the necessary forms by calling the Office of the Seaetary of State at (612) 296-2803. , 1 Full legal name oi cdrporation /� � - ' l_Gt3 /"1"rvtet� CQS� �• . '1 Registered office addren �PO 6os O / nof acceQled) .. . j�pl �-," �..ot.Gc� •' Sf �nf�. n� $ Principol ezecufive office address �PO box 9 noi accepkd� . /r_.. . ,—. t ! . � f. ,a�ra 4 State oF incorporation Minnesota 6 Name and complete business address c D �eriG� ��' S-2�W��v, ' �l-(E 7 Does this corporation own, lease or hbve any finantial inMre:t in ogriculhiral Iand or land capable of being farmedi ^ Check one yes no _� $ Name oF contact person: $ignoNre Daytime phone � 61a� 8a�- 33 � or represenianva , If this form is filed by December 31,1997, there is no fee for filing the annual registration. PENALTY—If you do not file this form each yeu, your corporation will lose its good standing and be requized to pay a 525 fee to regain good standing. If you do not file for three consecutive years, the corporation will be dissolved under Minnesota law (M.S. 302A.821). MAILING iNSTRUCT10N5 � IF NO FEE(S) are due: IF FEEtS) are due: RETURN ALL DOCUMEN'I'S TO RETURN ALL DOCUMENTS AND FEES TO Seaetary of State Secretary of State Records Processing Section 180 State Office Building 555 Park St., Suite 402 100 Constitutional Ave. St. Paul, MN 55103-2110 . St. Paul, MN 55155-1299 Srack No. dpppd80 Prinrad on rscyclad popar wi�h I OX poncon��mm w�b u�iy nybaud ink. paqZaqpB R�v. 10/96 � (S . '•�MN' �SS4�0� tata 'p . . M,,: � 55�s Srate Zip .. -:er- $ Corpomte thaYter number � /� ' � � � executive officar (or person who ca�ries ouf (uncfions of CEOJ � � 1 �- ��ee .S�'�., N � ST.AT� OF MINNESOTA � •r BOND NUMBER: 95661 CURRENCY EXCHANGE SURETY BOND ��_( KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS: That Las Americas, Inc. (Name of Currency Exchange) a Minnesota Check Cashing Corporation (Description or fortn of business organization, including state of incorporation) with business office at 178 Concord Street, St. Paui, Minnesota, 55107 (SVeef Address, City, State, Zip) as PRINCIPAL and Empire Fire & Marine Insurance Company (Name of Surety) a corporation duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska which is authorized to engage in the business of insurance in the State of Minnesota, as SURETY, are hereby heid and firmly bound to the Department of Commerce of the State of Minnesota in the sum of TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($10,000). Principai and Surety hereby bind themselves, their representatives, successors and assigns, jointly and severally by these presents. The parties further agree that: 1. The purpose of this obligation, which is required by Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.08, is to secur.e the compliance by Principal with the terms of Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.02 to 53A.13, and any other legal obligations arising out of the Principal's conduct as a currency exchange. 2. This bond is for the benefit of the State of Minnesota and all persons suffering damages by reason of the Principal's failure to comply with Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.0210 53A.08, or other legal obligations arising out of Principai's conduct as a currency exchange. 3. If the Principai shall violate Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.02 to 53A.08, or other legal obiigations arising out of its conduct as a currency exchange, the Commissioner of Commerce, as well as any person damaged as a result of such violation shall have, in addition to all other legal remedies, a right of action on this bond in the name of the injured party for loss sustained by the injured party. 4. This bond shail be effective from May 11th, 2000 until December 31, 2000. Signed and Sealed this 11th day of May, 2000. Empire Fire & Marine Insuran e Company Las Americas, Inc. (Name ty) (Name of Currency Exchange) BY: � BY: �C�� (Signature of Attorney in Fact) Odelia rtega, Presid t FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Approved as to form and execution by the Director of Licensing. SIGNATURE TE REV. 6/95 . , ".. . • �D �� STATE OF C`i I�* G� ) )ss. COUNTY OF �� ) ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRINCIPAL{S) BE IT KNOWN, that on the �Z�"day of � 1��OQ personaily appeared before me, Odelia Ortega to me well known to be the person who executed the foregoing bond, and has acknowiedged the same to be her own free act and deed, and that she executed the same for the uses and purposes therein expressed. .�� - - - - _�� , _ � � � RODOLFO G. TR` , � Notary F Minnesota iExpire�.�ar ;; 1005 , STATE OF ) )ss. COUNTY OF 2 J�G � ) ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRINCIPAL(S) (CORPORATE) , On this 12�day of �� Z�, personally appeared before me Odelia Ortega personally known, who, being by me dul sworn; did say that she is the President of the corporate principal(s) named in the foregoing bond; that the seal affixed thereto is the corporate seal of the corporation(s) that said bond was executed in behalf of the corporation(s by authority of its Board of Directors; and she acknowledged said ir�i�u� + �ea�Tnccnc 1 r � ree��eed of the corporation. My STATE OF MINNESOTA ) COUNTY OF HENNEPIN ) Notary PubliC Minnesata Expirec Jari. 3t, 2005 )ss. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF SURETY On this 11th day of May, 2000, before me personally appeared Richard H. Davies to me personaliy known, who being sworn did say that he is the Attorney-In-Fact of the EMPIRE FIRE & MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY, that the seal affixed to the foregoing iRStrument is the corporate seal of that corporation, and that said instrument was executed on behalf of the corporation by authority of its Board of Directors; he acknowledged said instrument to be the free act and deed of said corporation. .� PAMELA M. DRIESCH ��_�� m� Notary Public My Comm¢san E�pcaha IIf.Y(105 EMPIR[ Flft[ ANO MA(tINE INSURANCE COMI'ANY OMAHA,NEBRASKA POW[R OF ATTORN[Y nD��RO Know All Men by These Presents: Thal lMis Power of Attorney is nvl val�J or in e(lect uniess allached lo Ihe bvnd wluch it nuihu�v�•�. �•��.ui�• bw m:ry I�e det��ched by the approviny vfficer if desued • . 7hat LMPIRE FIftE ANU MAftWL" INSUf2ANC[ GOMPANY, a eo�poration duly orya�uzed iu,d�� th�� i•nr.: ul Il�e ::I.de u( Ileb�cis�a. and haviny its princ�ual office in lhe City ot Omaha, Counly o( Douylas, Sla[e ot Nebraska, dues hr�r.6y make. c.onsldute anJ appuiul R�chard FI. Davies. Bruce A. Myers, Nicholas L Newlon, Carviyn L Davies, Ueborah n.H- La�son r�nd V��.�on.� A ita�elte ls Irue anJ lawfut Altorney(s)-in-fac(. (o make, execute. siyn, seat and deliver (or and orr its behal( as su<<:ty a+�<! :is �ts .ie.1 arid deeJ any aiid all bonJs and unJertakinys of su�etyship. NOT EXCEEDtNG IN AMOUNT Seven Hundred and Fi(tv Thousand and No/100------------------------------------------------- -----:--- U�Iia�s (y T50.000. ) and io bmd [MPIRE FIR[ ANO MARINE INSUf2ANCE COMPANY thereby as fuity a�id to Ihe same extent as if su�h bonds and undertahmys . nJ other wntinys ubliyaloiy in lhe nalure lhereof were siyned by an Execulive Ofhcer ul LMPIKf- FIIiG ANU ivi/U21NE IN;;U(iANCE COh1Pl1NY anJ sealeJ ancl allesteJ !o by one other of such o(ficers, and heieby �ahlies an� wniums all lhal tls saiJ Attoincyls)'in�ta�l may Ju in pursuance hereof. t his puwer of aUomey is yranled under and by autho�ity of Arlicle III, Seclion 3.7 0( lhe liy-Laws of Ihe LMI'IKE f=1KL ANU tviARINC iNSUtiANC[ COMPANY and by Resolution of lhe Ooard of Direclors duly adopted as foilows: 'nu bunJs, policies, unJertakinys or olher obliyalions of Ihe corporalion shail be execuled in lhe cuipuiate namc uf the Coni{�any by ihe Chauman ol lhe Uoard, President, any Vice-Presidenl, Secrelary, any Assistanl Secretary, vr T�easurer, or Ly su�h uZher o�lice�s as lhe Uoard of Direclors may authvrize. The Chairman of lhe 6oard, President, any Vice-PresiJenl, Secielary, auy Assislanl 5e� retary, or Ihe Treasurer may appoinl Altorneys in Facl or Ayenls who shall have aulhurity lo issue Lunds, puhcies, oi undertakings �n Ihe name ol lhe Company. Tlie corporale seal is nol necessary for lhe validity of any bonJs, policies, unJertakinys or vlher ubiiy.iiions ot Ihe coiporalion." ii is cerUfied thal lhe above is a true and exact copy. In Wilness Whereof, Ihe EMPIRE FIRE AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY has caused Ihese p�esenls to be siyned by its President, and its corporale seal to be hereto affixed, duly allesled by its Secretary this 4lh Jay of June , t JJD. Allest: �� 8a=�� STATE OF NEBRASKA ) ) ss. COUNTY OF DOUGLAS) [MPIR[ FIRE AND MARW[ INSUK/�NCL= GOMI'AN'( Secretary � �j ��(�� ', P�esiJenl On this 4lh day of June . A.D. 199E1 , 6e(ore me personally came Amy S. F3ones to me known, who beiny by me duty sworn, did depose and say: that she resides in the Cvunty of Douylas, State of Nebraska; lhal she is lhe Secrelary uf lhc LMPIit[ 1'IHL" AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY, the wrporation described in and which executed the above insirwnenl: Uial she knuws lhe sea� of said corporalion; that the seal affixed to lhe said inslrument is such corporate seal; lhat it was so afGxed by uiJer of lf�e ESoaiJ of Directors of said corporalion and that she signed her name lhereto by like order. Siyned and sealed at the City of Omaha. Daled 4lh day of June , 1�3�p . � eteee,uxot�ar•s��«an�eu:�� .. � � �� . 10tiN T. KINSIER � MTCamT.Exp.0ea9,fi00 / otaryPublic CERTIFICATE I i, (he undersigned, Secrelary of the EMPIRE FIRE AND MARINE WSURANC - COMPANY, A Nebiaska Coipuiatiun UO t IL'1 �CUY CERTIFY ihat Uie foregoing and attached POWER OF ATTORNEY remains in full torce and has nol been revuked, anJ Iwtlicnnore, thal lhe Resolulions of ihe 8oard of Direclors sel forth in the Power of Altomey are now in (orce. Siyned and sealed at the City of Omaha. Dated the llth day of Lfay . 2000 EM 4010 (0�-98) �N ` /// �� } � {{{ �� JJJ ' ' ' / � Secrela�y � , o��' RIVERVIEW ECONONIIC DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION 7une I2, 2�00 Gerry StratUman Legislative Hearing Officer 310 City Hall l5 West Kellogg Blvd. Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 �-. ..�.��. The Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA) is a community development corporation (CDC) on the West Side that promotes and assists with commercial activity. On behaif of the Board of Directors of REDA, I am writing to object to the issuance of a Currency Exchange License for Las Americas at 17& Concord Street. As the Community Development Corporation in this area, we aze opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. The Board of Directors has concerns that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the desired retail categories as documented in the 1999 Market Study conducted by the Gibbs Pl�nning Group, Please read supporting documentation. For further clarification, please contact me at 651-281-0401 or Julie Eigenfeld at 651- 222-6347. Thank you for allowing an opportunity to eapress our concerns. Res tfully, ti�i%1�� ' --- icholas Lopez-Sant REDA Boazd President �E�E�vED JUN � n 2��1 CITY ATTC�RN�.I� Cour�cil ReS@arCh Cetrtet' JUN 15 ��D urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ion o _I.as Amer►cas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc.._ City's Exh. No. 2 176 Concord Street • Saini Paul, MN 55107 • 65t 222-6347 • Fax 651 222-8398 'HO-YlE OF THE GNCO DE .V[AYO" �-�q� 6.4 Key Mazket Nicbes The following � an excerpt fram the Commercial Market An¢lysis prepared for the Riverview Commercial Carridor Revitalization Program by the Gibbs Planning Group, Inc.. Ezecuvve Summary "Ihe Concord S�reet business disrricc is presenUy made ug of numerous prospering small independent businesses and represenu on of St Pani's best opportuniaes for significant expansion. Many of ihe West Side residenrs are loyal cc Concord Sueex h�t�inecse� .a.nd c��p r�Qre �„ , regular bazis. In addition, Concord Street is a unique shopping/ encercainment destinarion due to its unique and authentic Hispanic flavor. Many businesses have successfully expanded their uade area ro include much of the gea[er Minneapolis/Sc Paul region, and several more have this potential. This study finds [hat an addiaona135,000 squaze fee[ of new retail space could be suppottable in the Concord District in the near future. The population base in the trade area is growing and the median income is higher in the Concord Sa'eet hade area than what is average for the City of Sc PauL Fwther, rerail trade is currendy strong in tbe azea - many of the Concord businesses report above average sales. New retail should be loca[ed adjacent to existing retail to estabiish a more concentrated core. It should also carry merchandise tLat rein- forces the Hispanic mix in the azea. New retail offerings such as a rescaisant, coffeehouse, household accessories store and a jewelry store can broaden the appeal of the area, while enhancing the image of the disttict as a unique destination. Consumer perceptlons of Concord Street can also be inproved through better visual merchandising and sueet maintenauce. It would be advantageous for Concord S�et to implement a coordi- nazed management and leasing progam. This, combined with an increased amoimt of modem leasable space in the disuict, caa help attracf new tenanu in desired retail categories. HAY • DOBBS ew Riverview Commercial Corridor Revkalization Progrem 4$ December 3999 �-�gs' . r The following presen[s recommenda¢ons for the addi[ional retail squaze footage that wilI be supportable in the Concord S�eet Disrrict by 2003: sf Retail Category Comments • �ri � 111 ��1 1�� 11 �1 1,SOQ 500 500 Hispanic Restaurant._........_..--.. Fuminue/Antique Stores........... Household Accessories .............. COff2E $llOp.........'-' ................... Cards and Gifrs Crafts and Crafr Supplies Quality/formal with liquor A southwestem/westem emphasis To include sou[hwestem-oriented Iamps and deco:ating accessories Such as Caribou Jewelry and Accessories............ Southwestern Personal Services ....................... Such as hair caze, naii c.are and cleaners Vegetable and Fmit Market Florist 12,000 Drugsrore ................................... A chain such as Snyder's Drugs, offering a full variery of convenience foods, as well as health and beauty aids and presaiption scrvices Figure S: Recommended retail categories. Please refer to Exhibit C of the Appenix (of the Gibbs Documerzt) far the complete recommended T°'ai1 mix wid forecasted e.apenditure pctentials for the year 2003. HAY • DOBBS rn. December 1999 Riverview Commerciai Corridor Revitalization Program �0 ._ . �� _ .. ' • CITY OF SA1NT PAUL Norm Colem¢rs, Mayor June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 OFFICE �THE CITY ATTORNEY �� (p -/ � Clayion M. ��aon, Jr., Ciry Attorney cr,�tor,.�ron 400 Ciry HaII I'e[ephone: 6511668710 ISWestKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:651298-56/9 Saint P¢ul, Minnuotn 5510? NOTICE OF HEARING RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Dear Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmentai Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce oFyour currency exchange license applicafion for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your application by the local goveming body after published notice and pubiic hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381.02 requ'ues that if objections aze received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their objection is as follows: The REDA is opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a public hearing has been scheduled to consider your license application. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paul City Hall/Ramsey County Courthouse, room 41, 15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especiaily if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ion o I.as Amencas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc..— City's Exh. No. 3 ^ Page 2 Odelia Ortega 7une 26, 2000 • � �� Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license appiicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of administering and processing the currency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code filrther requires the applicant to reimburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be billed for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, � c`��,,,�.v� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Comne Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 , . , f _ � STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF RAMSEY ss_ � AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE BY MAIL i i�� ' � JOP.NNE G. CLEMENTS, being first duly sworn, deposes and says that on June 26, 2000, she served the attached NOTICE OF HEARING on the following named person by placing a true and correct copy thereof in an envelope addressed as follows: Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, MN. 55408 Odelia Ortega 1404 Dowling Avenue North Minneapolis, MN. 55412 Odelia Ortega 178 Concord Street St. Paul, MN. 55107 (which is the last known addresses of the same, with postage prepaid, in t� Paul, Minnesota. � person) and depositing ed States mails at St. G Subscribed and sworn to before me this 26th ylaylof Jy�e, 2000. "T � , PETER P. pANGBORN Notary Publi > w �T�'PUauc•Minn�ESptq MY CpMM13SIpN EXAIRE8 JRN.31, 2W3 �o-l�R� NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. 178 Concord Street Saint Paul, MN 55107 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that testimony will be taken from interested persons, including those in the community, with respect to the application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. to operate a currency exchange by license issued under Minn. Stat. §53A.02. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of the license application by the local governing body, after published notice and hearing, within 60 days after receipt of the application from the Commissioner of Commerce. The public hearing has now been scheduled as follows: Date of Hearing : Time : Location : Wednesday, July 5, 2000 9:30 a.m. St. Paul City Hali / Ramsey County Courthouse Room 41, Lower Level 15 West Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55102 The hearing will be conducted by an administrative law judge from the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings, on behalf of the Council of the City of Saint Paul. Name : George A. Beck Office of Administrative Hearings 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Telephone : 612-341-7601 His report and recommendation for action will be forwarded to the Councif for final action. If you have any questions, please call Virginia Palmer, Saint Paul City Attomey's Office 266-8710. urrency xc ange icense pp ca .ion o �,as Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las America5, Inc._ City's Exh. No. 4 �p--C°�� AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION � IQOTICE OF POBLIC HLAT2ING � Currency Es ha �nC Iacense App&eatlon �, of Ias Americas, Inc. - as Ias Americas. Inc. 178 Concord Street s�nt rd,�. � �10� pT"GAS TAHE NO'tyCE tLat tes[imony �+111x taken from intei�ested pecsons. 3nclud'mg Those in' the mmmuni�S, with resPect. to the applirvUOn of� Ias AmHiras. Inc. d{bla Ias Amerires. Inc. tu� ope�ate a cufrenty eXel�ange-tYy �icense issa� ,maer nSinn. smt §53eLOZ- Minn. Stat. §`a3A0�1 xe4us + the apprwel o disappmval Mthe license appllcauon by the locai govern�ng iwdY. after published notice and hear ing, Within Cp days after receipt of the appllca- tion from the Commissioner or Commerce. The publlc hearing has now been schedultd as follows: - - ' Date ufHearing: Wedneeday. Jaly 5. 2000 1Yme: 8:30 a.m. - , Lacatlun: St. Panl Clty Hell/ � xamsep Connty cnartLonse � � . - Ruom 41. Loaer Level 15 West 8ellogg Blvd. � � st.,ra�, �v ssio2 The hearing will be mnducted by an admiius- .trative law judge-from the Minnesota Of9ce of Adminishative Hezrings, onbe,l�alfofthe Council uf the �ty of Saint Pa�1. � � Name: George A BeCk - Office of AdministraNve HeazYngs l0D Washingtoa 3qnare. SWte 1700 Minneapolis. Minaesota-554(11 Telephoar. (g12),SQ1-7801 His report and recommendation for� action m'll be £orwarded to the CountllYor fu�al aetion. If you have azry questions, please ce11 VSrglnia pa]mer, Sain} Paul CiTy Attorne}�s Of5ce��266- 8710_ - ' (J+�ne 29) � —__ '_' ST. PAIIL LEGAL LEDGER =_--- 02008544 State of Mimiesota, County of Ramsey Patrick Boulay, being duly sworn, on oath says that he/ she is the publisher or the publisher's designated agent of the newspaper lmown as the St. Paul Legal Ledger and has full knowledge of the facts wfiich aze stated below: (A) The newspaper has complied with all the requirements constituting qualificafion as a qualified legal newspaper, as provided by Minnesota Statutes 331A.02, 331A.07, and other applicable laws, as amended. (B) The printed Public Hearing which is attached was cut from the columns of said newspaper and was printed and published once; it was published on June 29, 2000. and printed below is a copy of the lower case alphabet from A to Z, both inclusive, which is hereby aclmowledged as being the size and kind of type used in the composition and publication of said notice: abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 6 ��8AR8ARAA. STMARTlN s � �� hf � � �' � P+1y Comm. ExprrBS Jan. 3t. 2005 Ra.e Information ■ 4 (1) Lowest classified rate paid by commercial users for compazable space is $ N/A (2) Maximum rate allowed by ]aw for the above publication is $ 7478 (3J Rate actually charged for the above publication is $ 67.98 urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ►on o _I,as Amencas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc�l City's Exh. No. 5 � Subscribed and sworn to before me this 29th day of June, 2000 � ��J A � X . �- �o� 98� I want to preface my comments today regarding our opposition to licensed check cashing businesses by saying that the opinions and facts presented are not intended to be accusations or indictments of Mr. Ortega. Our desire to prevent a private, fully licensed, check cashing organization in the neighborhood has to do with the adverse consequences that wiil �,affect our community business comdor, not the owner himself. A recent survey of 16 busines� ln our district found that 11 of the 16 offer check cashing or money wiring services. In fact there are 5 businesses that will cash checks or wire money within SQ feet of Mr. Ortega's store - including a community bank. T'here are ample opportunities for those who want to pay to cash checks in our district. By allowing a larger check cashing operation to exist in the middle of our commercial corridor, we are creating a focal point of individuals carrying large amounts of cash. While it would not be his intent, Mr. Ortega would be creating a potential hot spot for robbery. �, al�a -E�nin.4.'t4+�t--3rkz.. -�. .. , ,. r„ .�t,..., : s;,.,s . �• ` viif i eseai v� across ihe counuy mere are numerous examples o2 me negative , -�,�. ,, impactsof check cashing businesses. �'' i � . N`� An article in the Bergen Record reads, "Check cashers have been identified by the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation as a conduit for drug dealers and organized crime groups who use the storefront businesses to convert bags of dirty cash into large denomination, easy- to-conceal bills." The New Jersey Senate 7udiciary Committee is reviewing a biil that will limit the size of checks that check cashing business can cash. This is to prevent�l yundering and fraud. (new cap of $2,500 — Senate Bd! number 212) Studies in Brooktyn, New York and Oakland, Califomia have identified check cashing businesses among what are considered "nuisance" businesses. This is in part due to the spillover of traffic and disorder into residenrial areas. Check cashing businesses were also cited as atiracting non community residents who tend to loiter at or near these places of business. {"Solving Crime Problems in Residemeai Neighlwrhoods: Comprehensive Changes iu Besign, Nfanagement, and Use" by Judith D. Feins, Ph. D., Jcel C. Epstein, Esq., Rebecca Widom April 1997 Issues mrd Practices in Criminal Justice is a publication series of the National Institute oFJustice.) By looking at locai crime statisrics in the city of St. Paul, we found that many areas that have large check cashing operations in the business district, also tend to have higher rates of "crimes against persons" than surrounding areas. While other factors may contribute to these rates, it is a fair assumption to suggest that if the number of people with large amount of cash on their person increases in an area, so will the number of those who prey on these individuals. In conclusion, I wouid like to reiterate that 1) We have many locations for check cashing on our commercial corridor already, and 2) Check cashing businesses are often the locations of crime in inner-city neighborhoods. The Riverview Economic Development Association opposes� granting a license to Mr. Ortega on the grounds that this type of business is atready available in our area, and the creation of a licensed check cashing business wili have an adverse effect on our commercial district. �Eti • Z or�, �1.� ti C��. `F�n w �aMV.d P'i'�M'e�' "'_'�' i � ' \ C June 22, 2000 Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer 310 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Blvd. Saint Paul, MN 55102 Dear Mr. Strathman: � � �o �� 127 West Winifred St. St. Paul, MN 55107 Phone (612) 293-1708 Fax (612) 293-0115 On June 20, 2000 the Building and Land Use (BLU) committee of the West Side Citizens Organization (WSCO) met and discussed Las Americas Inc.'s application for a currency exchange license. The committee recommends the denial of the issuance of this license. The committee feels that there ample opportunities for people to exchange currency in the area and that this use does not fit into the community's plan for development in this area of the neighborhood. Thank you for your consideration of our recommendation. Sincerely, ) OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY �� ((�� Claylon M. Robinson, Jc, Ciry itttorney '2L� d CITY OF SAINT PAUL u�C��iV�D c;vit Division Nonn Coleman, Ma}'or n� „. �� _ � � qQQCiry Nal! Telephane: 651266-8710 �� "" � � '"" � ��%' XS`�t'estKellaggBivd. Faaimile:651298-5619 Saint P¢ul, Minnesota 55102 r� : � �:. � : _ ._. '. ?v�.�, June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 NOTICE OF HEARING RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord 5treet in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmentai Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce of your currency exchange license application for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your application by the local governing body after published notice and public hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381 A2 requires that if objections are received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their obj ection is as foilows: The REDA is opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a public hearing has been scheduled to consider your license application. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paui City HalURamsey County Courthouse, room 41,15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especially if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. Page 2 Odelia Ortega June 26, 2000 Saint Paul Legisiative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license applicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of administering and processing the currency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code further requires the applicant to reimburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be bilied for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, ^ � c�.'�J V �.X.�..�.e� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attorney cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN SS401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 i►� � i OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY �� ✓/ C�� Claytan M. Robinson, Jc, Ciry Atiomey �D � CITY OF SAINT PAUL �= �`�'`� ` D Civil Divisiors NormColeman,Mayor +Rt's, - 7 c�.• �r q �400CiryHall Telephone:657266-8770 ~ 3 y y �� f F `�' J � L � I S Wut Kellogg Blvd. Fauimile: 651298-5679 � Sain! Paul, Minnesota SST,01 �I':_ _-. ,�.''A�jC June 26, 2000 NOTICE OF COUNCII. HEARING Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: Please take notice that a hearing on the report of the Administrative Law Judge conceming the above-mentioned license application has been scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2000, in the City Council Chambers, Third Floor, Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse. You have the opportunity to file exceptions to the report with the City Clerk at any time during normal business hours. You may also present oral or written argument to the council at the Hearing. No new evidence will be received or testimony taken at this hearing. The Council will base its decision on the record of the proceedings before the Administrative Law Judge and on the azguments made and exceptions filed, but may depart from the recommendations of such Judge as permitted by law in the exercise of its judgement and disczetion. Sincerely, �� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Robert Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Cirizens Organization,127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 ......,.., ....... .,.. ,...� . +H f � = qNQ�� - J ' _ ., , y', : � ••., + - June 29, 2000 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota55401-2138 BY Fax and U.S. Mail Virginia D. Pafiner Assistant City Attorney 15 West Kellogg Blvd., Suite 400 St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, Esq. 529 S. 7 St., #636 Minneapolis, MN 55415 RE: In the Matter of the Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, inc. for the Premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Counsel: This wili confirm that the hearing in the above matter will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at the same location because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the morning. �� /� ':/ s. � 1 .- .: Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 Ce��, cc: Docket Coordinator ��-�� Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Administrative Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 s TDD No. (612) 341-7346 • Fax No. (612) 349-2665 JUN.'29'00(THU) 11�26 OFFICE OF ADMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P.0 1 �D-�9� TRANSACTIO� REPORT Transmission Transaction(s) completed NO. TX DATE/TIME DESTINATION 342 J[JN. 29 11 :26 651 298 5619 DURATION PGS. 0° 00' 22' 001 RESULT MODE OK N ECM STA'1'E O� MINN�SOTA OT'FICE 4F ADMIIVIST&1T1'V� HEARIN�S 100 Washingtan Square, Suite 1700 10D Washington Avenue South Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401-2138 June 29, 20b0 BY Fax and U.5. Mait Virginia 0. Palmer Assistant Ciiy Attarney 15 West Keflogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, Esq. 529 S. 7 St., #636 Suite 4DD Minneapolis, MN 55�415 RE: In the Maiter of the Currency F�cchange �icense Application of Las Americas, lno. d'bJa Las Americas, Ino, for the Premises located at 178 Concorct Street in St. Paul dAH Docket Na. 1-2'f 11-12950-3 Dear Counsel: This will confirm that the hearing in the above mattar wil{ begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July �, 20�0 at the same l�cation because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the morning. Since � GEOf2G� A. BECK Administrative Law Judge . JUN.=29'00(THU) 11�27 OFFICE OF ADMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P. 001 j'j0 -�cG TRANSACTIOti REPORT Transmtszion Transaction(s} comPleted N0. TX DATEfTIME DESTINATION 343 JUN.29 13�26 b12 288 Q546 DURATION PGS. 0° 00' 25' 001 RESliLT MODE OK N ECM STATE OF MINNESdTA QFFIGE OF ADMINIST$ATT'V� T�EARINGS 1on Washington 5quare, Suite i7oo 10o Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnasata 55G01-2f38 June 29, 20dQ BY Fax and U.S. Mail Virginia D. Palmer Assistant Ciiy Attorney 15 West Kellogg Bivd., St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, �sq. 529 S. 7 St,, ;�636 Suif� 400 Minneapalis, MN 55415 R�: fn the Matter af the Currency Exchange License Application of �as Americas, lnc, dJbla Las Ameriaas, Ina, for the Premises located at 178 Goncard Street in St. Paul OAH Docket Na. 1-2911-12950-3 pear Counsel: This will confirm that the hearing in the above matter will begin at 1:30 p.tn, on Wednesday, July 5, 20Q0 at the same lacation because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the marning. Since , � GEORGE A. �ECK Administrative Law Judge ORIGlNAL Presented By Referred To OF � � Council File # O O— b�lg' GreenSheet# ��3q9G RESOLUTION AINT PAUL, OTA i� , l5 Committee: Date 1 WHEREAS, Las Americas, Inc., d/b/a Las Americas, Inc., at 178 Concord Street applied 2 to the Minnesota Depariment of Commerce for a currency exchange license at that location; and 4 WHEREAS, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §53A.04 the application was submitted to Saint Paul 5 for approval or disapproval, and notice of the application was duly given by the Office of LIEP 6 of the itttention to consider the application; and 8 WHEREAS, objections were received to the issuance of the license, and a hearing was 9 held before an Administrative Law Judge to determine whether there existed grounds to 10 recommend denial of the license to the Deparhnent of Commerce; and 11 12 WHEREAS, the Administrative Law Judge heard testimony from the organizations 13 opposed to issuance of the license, but issued a Report in which he made conclusions that the 14 record did not support a denial and recommended that the license be approved; now, therefore, be 15 it 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 RESOLVED, that the Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation of the Administrative Law Judge aze hereby accepted as the findings of the Council in this matter and are incorporated herein by reference, and the Council recommends approval of the currency exchange license application by Las Americas Inc. at 178 Concord Street to the Minnesota Department of Commerce. 1 00- 6q8' 2 A copy of this Resolufion, as adopted, shall be sent by first class mail to the licensee and 3 the Aduiinistrative Law Judge. ORIGiNAL Requested by Department of: By: Foxm Approved City At rney By: �� Approved by or for Submission to Council By: � —'_ Approved by Mayor: Date �� By: Adopted by Council: Date �a� Adoptioa Certified by Counci2 Se retary 00 —�qK City Attorney �/2s/oo GREEN SHEET No1Q3°9o. Palmer August 2, 2000 wn Rolrtv6 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES ov�ru�rcrae arccauri � arc�lrouEx ❑ aneteuc ❑ m�xcuaamucoo�c ❑ wwau�a�nuYro ❑ wvdelw��amrairtl ❑ (CIJP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATUR� Finalizing City Council action taken July 12, 2000, adopting the Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation of the Administrative Law Judge recommending approval of the currency exchange license application to th Minnesota Department of Commerce by Las Americas, Inc. at 178 Concord Street. PLANNING COMMISSION CIB COMMfTTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Has itus vgsaJfirm eoxrwrrked undera � tarNic deyaAmenl7 YES NO Has this O�eoNfirm aver been a aty empbyee7 . vES NO Dces this PaisoMrm P� a sldll not rarmalypo�e�e0 bY �Y eurteM edY emPbYee? res rm i. m� ce�o�x� a a!ne�ea �on vES rio � � �ea �� ny_��:r.��.� AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION f COST/REYENUE BUDGETm (CIRCLE ON� YEE NO ACTIVrtYNUMBER . •�. �:_ �!z � .•:. �. oo•�t$' -: Public hearing to consider the report of the Administrative Law Judge concerning the Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc., 178 Concord Street. Note: Since the ALJ hearing on this matter was just held on July 5, the report will not be available until the early part of next week. i�� OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY CI¢ytors M. Robinson, Ja, City Attorney � D�q � �� CITY OF SA1NT PAUL Norm Colemnn, Mrsyor June 26, 2000 CivilDivision 400CiryHa11 Telephane:651266-8710 ISWestKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:G51298-5619 Sainr P¢ul, Minnuota 55101 NOTICE OF HEARING �'�`` �`�� :i;i i.n� v � � �a. - Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmental Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce of your currency exchange license application for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your appiication by the local governing body after published notice and pubiic hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381.02 requires that if objections are received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their objection is as follows: The REDA is opposed to any business wLose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a d'srect increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a pubiic hearing has been scheduled to consider your license appiication. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paui City Hall/Ramsey County Courthouse, room 41,15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especially if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. Page 2 Odelia Ortega June 26, 2000 •• • 1 Saint Paul Le�slative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license applicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of adininistering and processing the cunency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code further requires the applicant to reunburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be billed for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, / �� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 1�0 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Cozrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Boazd President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY Gayton M. Robinson, Jr., Ciry Attorney C'2�-(p�'f� CITY OF SAINT PAUL Norm Coleman, Mayor June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street civftDivistoa 400 CiryHa71 Telephone: 657 266-87l0 lSWertKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:651298-5619 Saint Paul, Minnuota SSIA2 NOTICE OF COUNCIL HEARING E „ �� t�Q�'�! �r'�''_ Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 �� RE: Currency Exchange License ApphcaYiori of Las Americas, Inc. d!b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul ' � �„,_ , ��._ . __ � Dear Ms. Ortega: Please take notice that a hearing on the report of the Administrative Law Judge conceming the above-mentioned license application has been scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2000, in the City Council Chambers, Third Floor, Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse. You have the opportunity to file exceptions to the report with the City Clerk at any time during norxnal business hours. You may also present oral or written argument to the council at the Hearing. No new evidence will be received or testimony taken at this hearing. The Council will base its decision on the record of the proceedings before the Administrative Law Judge and on the arguments made and exceptions filed, but may depart from the recommendations of such Judge as permitted by law in the exercise of its judgement and discretion. Sincerely, �� Virginia D. Paimer Assistant City Attorney cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Robert Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Cirizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 JUL. -D1' OOIFRII 14�20 OfPICE OF A�M[N. HEARfNG TEL:61Z3492665 P.001 i� • • 1-2'111-12950-3 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CfTY OF ST. PAUL in the Matter of the LiGense App4ication of FINDINGS OF FACT. Las Americas, Inc. d/h/a Las Americas, CONCLUSIONS AND Inc. for the Premises located at 178 RECOMMENPATION Concord Streat in St. Paul The above-entitled matter came on for hearing before Administrative Law Judge George A. Seck, serving as hearing officer for the St. Paul City Council on July 5, 2000 at 1:30 p,m. in Room 41, St. Paul City Hall, Ramsey County Courthouse. The record closed at the conclusion of the hearing. Virginia D. Paimer, Assistant Gity Attorney, 400 City Hali, 15 West Kellogg Bivd., St. Paul, MN 55102, appeared on behalf of the Offce of License, Inspeckions and Environmental Protection {LIEP). Jo�dan S. Kuschner, Attorney at Law, 529 South Seventh Street, Suite 636, Minneapolis, MN 55415, appeared representing Las Americas, Inc, OTIC This Report is a recommendation, �ot a final decision. The Sf. Paul City Council will make the final decision after a review of the record and may adopt, reject or modify these Findings of Fact, ConGusions and Recommendation. Under Section 310.05(ej(c-1) of the City's Legislative Code, the City Council will provide the applicant the opportunity to present oral or written argument to the City Council before it takes final action. Patties should contact the St. Paul City Council to determine to the procedure for presenting argument. STATEM�NT OF ISSUE Should this application for a currency exchange license be approved by the St, Paul City Council? Based upon all of the proceedings herein, the Administretive Law Judge makes the following: FfNDiNGS OF FACT �. On May 16, 2000 the DepaRment of Commerce forwarded an application for a cutrency exchange license to the City of St. Paul. The application had been submitted to the Department by Odelia Ortega, to operate a JUL-07-2000 14�44 6123492665 96i P.01 JUL. -07' 00 (FRf I 14:20 OFFICE OF ADMIN. HE�RING TEL:6123492665 a currency exchange business at 17B Concord Avenue in St. Paul. The application indicates ihat the name of the currency exchange wi11 be las Americas, Inc., which is a Minnesota corporation.' . 2. A sea�ch of criminal history filed by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension found no record for Odelia drtega. 3. The proposed location fo� the currency exchange is not within one- half mite of another licansed currency exchange. 4. The currency exchange is proposed to be located in a grocery store aiready operated by Las Americas, lnc. at the proposed location. 5. The operation of a currency exchange at the proposed location is consistent with the St. Paul Zoning Code. 6. The proposed location is in compliance with the fire and health requirements of the City of 5t. Paul. 7. The grocery store at the proposed location is the primary business at that location, aithough if also offers other services such as check cashing and Western Union. Approximately 98% of the customers are Hispanic and many do not speak English. B. At the present time the grocery store at the proposed location is ahle to cash checks under state law if the fee is Isss than 1%. 9. There are approximately 11 businesses within one mile of the proposed focalion that can cash checks, including a community bank. 10. lJpon receipt of the appiication from the Department of Commerce the City provided notice of the appiication to community organizations. In a letter dated June 12, 2000 the president of the Riverview Economic Qevelopment Association (REDA) advised the Ci1y ihat it was objecting to the issuance of the currency exchange license. 11. On June 26, 2000 the City issued a Notice of Hearing on the application which set a hearing for July 5, 2000. 12. The Notice of Public Hearing was published in the St. Paul Legal tedgar on June 29, 200� 6 'Ex.�. 'Ex.1. 3 Ex, A. " Ex. 2. 6 Ex. 3. 6 Ex. 5. P. OC? �-�98 JUL-07-2000 14:44 6123492665 96i P.02 JUL. -07' OO IFRI) 14:2a n OFFICE OF AOMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P. 00's pD —f��d� 13. The Board of Directors of REAR objects to granting the iioense because it believes that a check cashing business does not fit in with the desired retail categories in the business area.' REDA believes there are adequate check cashing opportunities in the district and that adding another one may increase criminal activities such as robbery or money laundering. 14. REDA's concerns do noi include any concern about Mr. or Ms. Qrtega. 15. in a letter dated June 22, 2000 the West Side Citizens Organization advised the City that its building and land use committee was recommending the deniai of the license because it believes thaf there are ample opportunities for people fo exchange currency in the area, and that the license does not fit into the community's plan for development. Based upon the foregoing Findings ofi Fact, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: CO NCLUSfONS 1. The City Council of the City of St. Paul and the Administrative Law Judge have jurfsdiction in this matter pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 14.55 and the St, Paui Legislative Code §§ 310.05, 310.06 and 361.02. 2. The City of St. Paul has fulfilled a{I rele�ant substantive and procedural requirements of law and rule. 3. The City of St. Paul has given proper notica of the hearing in this matter including propar notice in accordance with the requirements set forth in Minn. Stat. Ch. 53A and § 3B1 of the Legisiative Code of the City of St. Paul. 4. 7he applicant has complied with the application requirements set out in law. 5. St. Paul Legislative Code Section 381.03(b)(4)(i) provides that a currency exchange license may be disapproved if: The location of a new currency exchange as proposed would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighboThoods within three hundred {30�) feet of the exchange. Such anticipated effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. 7 Ex. 2. B Ex. A. ° Ex. B. JUL-07-2009 14:45 6123492665 96i P.03 JUL.-07'00(FRI� 14:20 OFFICE OF A�KIN.NE�RING TEL:612349?665 6. That the record in this matter does not show by clear and convincing evidence that the location of the proposed currancy exchange would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhood. Based upon the fo�egoing Conclusions, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: RECOMMENDATION 17 IS HEREBY RESPECTFULLY RECOMMENQED: That the St. Paul City Council approve the currency exchange iicense application of Las Americas, inc. for tha premises located at 178 Concord Street in Sf. Paul. Dated this � �� jrl .': 7th day of July 200�. .� GEORGE A. B K Administrative Law Judge Reported: Taped, No Transcript Prepared. NOTICE Pursuant to Minn. Stai. § 53A.Q4, the St. Paul City Council is required to forward its approval or disapproval of the license application to the Commissioner of Commerce of the State of Minnesota for the Commissioner's approval or disapproval. If the application is denied, the Commissioner shall mail notice of the denial a�d the reason therefor to the applicant. 7he applicant, upon denial, may request a further hearing as provided for in Minn. Stat. § 53A.Q4(b). MEMoRANDUM A hearing in this matter was scheduled due to objections to the currency exchartge license application by the Riverside Economic Development Association and the West Side Citizens Organization. Their specific objections are set out at Findings of Fact Nos. 13-15. LIEP staff testified that the application satisfied the technical requirements of statute and legislative code. The legislative code also provides, however, that the location of a new currency exchange can be disapproved if it would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts on the neighborhoods within 300 feet of the exchange, 7he Legislative Code sets out a stringent burden of proof for those attempting to show significant adverse consequences-such an effect must be shown by cfear and convincing evidence. TUL-07-2000 14�45 6123492665 96� P•� JUL. -07' 00(FRII 14:21 OFF(CE OF A�NIh. HEARING iEL:612349?665 Both of the objecting organizations made it clear that they do not object to Mr, or Mrs, Ortega. They operate 10 grocery stores in the metropolitan area and provide significant services to the Hispanic commun'ity. 7he otganizat�ons object, rather, to the nature of the 6usiness and are concemed that it may cause an increase in crime. They also believe that opportunities currently exist to cash checks. The concerns presented by the organizations do not amount fo a showing of significant adverse consequences by clear and convincing evidence. The concern about criminal activity is speculafive. The record shows that check cashing oppoRunifies in the neighborhood will not be a new service. 7he license wi11 permit the applicant to charge somewhat higher fees but it will also be accompanied by regulation by the Minnesota Department of Commerce that should ameliorate some of the concerns expressed. As the applicant pointed out, the currency exchange will not be the primary function at this location and it is likely better to have such a license contained within a grocery store than in a stand alone facility. The record does not indicate that there have been any complaints about the existing check cash(ng service at Las Americas, Inc. Accordingly, it is recommended that the City Council approve the license application. G.A.B. P. 005 p Q� �D JUL-07-20E0 14�46 6123492665 96� P.aS �� `� °.i= ��` y _�� ` �%i�$T� l July 11, 2000 STATE OF MINNESOTA O�'FICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota 5540�-2138 Fred Owusu, City Clerk 170 Ciiy Hail 15 West Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: in the Matter of the License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the Premises located at 178 concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Mr. Owusu: �CE►V�p dUC 112000 CITY �LE Enclosed please find the original Affidavit of Service in the above matter which is to be attached to the original Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Recommendation which was sent to you on July 7, 2000. Also enclosed is a copy of the hearing tape in the above matter. Sincerely, �,�li�¢,rr�c�C� .�C� - U GEORGE A. BECK � Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 GAB:cr Encl. Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 � TDD No. (612) 341-7346 s Fax No. (612) 349-2665 STATE OF MINNESOTA} ) Ss COUNTY OF HENNEPIN} AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE BY U.S. MAIL Cindy Ringdahl, being first dufy sworn, hereby deposes and says that on the 7th day of J�, 2000, at the City of Minneapolis, county and state aforementioned, she served the attached FINDINGS OF FACT, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION: OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 by depositing in the United States mail at said City of Minneapolis, a true and correct copy thereof, properly enveloped, with first class postage prepaid and addressed to the individuals named herein. Fred Owusu, City Clerk 170 City Hall 15 West Keflogg Bivd. St. Paul, MN 55902 Jordan S.Kuschner Attorney at Law 529 S. 7 St., Suite 636 IV�inneapolis, MN 55415 Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attorney 15 W. Kellogg Blvd., Suite 400 St. Paul, MN 55902 Riverview Economic Dev. Assn. 176 Concord St. St. Paul, MN 55107 r Cindy Ring a I Subscribed and sworn to before me this 7th day of Juiy , 2000. LaVON REGAN woewr rueue • �sm� AAY COMMISSION EXpIRES JANUAflY 3t.2005 ��`-,"� � ��.�" f .�.. �'"�� ` —_� July 7, 2000 STATE OF MINNE50TA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota55401-2138 �£C�YE� Fred Owusu, City Clerk �� 200� 170 City Hall CITY CLERK 15 West Kellogg Bivd. St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: ln the Matter of the License Application of Las Americas, inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the Premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Mr. Owusu: 00 �� Enclosed herewith and served upon you by maif is the Administrative Law Judge's Findings of Fact, Conciusions and Recommendation in the above- entitled matter. A1so enclosed is the official record, Our file in this matter is now being closed. Sincerely, �\�� C GEORGE A. BECK Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 GAB:cr Encl. cc: Virginia D. Palmer Jordan S. Kuschner REDA .,� . Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 � TDD No. (612) 341-7346 o Fax No. (612) 349-2665 ob-�R� 1-2111-12950-3 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ST. PAUL In the Matter of the License Application of FINDINGS OF FACT. Las Americas, inc. d/b/a Las Americas, CONCLUSIONS AND Inc. for the Premises located at 178 RECOMMENDATION Concord Street in St. Paul The above-entitled matter came on for hearing before Administrative Law Judge George A. Beck, serving as hearing officer for the St. Paul City Council on July 5, 2000 at 1:30 p.m. in Room 41, St. Paul City Hall, Ramsey County Courthouse. The record closed at the conclusion of the hearing. Virginia D. Pa{mer, Assistant City Attorney, 400 City HaA, 15 West Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55102, appeared on behalf of the Office of License, Inspections and Environmental Protection (LIEP). Jordan S. Kuschner, Attorney at Law, 529 South Seventh Street, Suite 636, Minneapoiis, MN 55415, appeared representing Las Americas, Inc. NOTICE This Report is a recommendation, not a final decision. The St. Paul City Council will make the final decision after a review of the record and may adopt, reject or modify these Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Recommendation. Under Section 310.05(c)(c-1) of the City's Legislative Code, the City Council will provide the applicant the opportunity to present oral or written argument to the City Council before it takes final action. Parties should contact the St. Paul City Council to determine to the procedure for presenting argument. STATEMENT OF ISSUE Should this application for a currency exchange license be approved by the St. Paul City Council? Based upon all of the proceedings herein, the Administrative Law Judge makes the fallowing: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. On May 16, 2000 the Department of Commerce forwarded an application for a currency exchange license to the City of St. Paul. The application had been submitted to the Department by Odelia Ortega, to operate a �o -�q � a currency exchange business at 178 Concord Avenue in St. Paul. The application indicates that the name of the currency exchange will be Las Americas, Inc., which is a Minnesota corporation.� 2. A search of criminal history filed by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension found no record for Odelia Ortega? 3. The proposed location for the currency exchange is not within one- half mile of another licensed currency exchange. 4. The currency exchange is proposed to be located in a grocery store already operated by Las Americas, Inc. at the proposed location. 5. The operation of a currency exchange at the proposed location is consistent with the St. Paul Zoning Code. 6. The proposed location is in compliance with the fire and health requirements of the City of St. Paul. 7. The grocery store at the proposed location is the primary business at that location, although it also offers other services such as check cashing and Western Union. Approximately 98% of the customers are Hispanic and many do not speak English. 8. At the present time the grocery store at the proposed location is able to cash checks under state law if the fee is less than 1%. 9. There are approximately 11 businesses within one mile of the proposed location that can cash checks, including a community bank. 10. Upon receipt of the application from the Department of Commerce the City provided notice of the application to community organizations. In a letter dated June 12, 2000 the president of the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA) advised the City that it was objecting to the issuance of the currency exchange license. 11. On June 26, 2000 the City issued a Notice of Hearing on the application which set a hearing for July 5, 2000. 12. The Notice of Public Hearing was published in the St. Paul Legal Ledger on June 29, 2000. ' Ex. 1. Z Ex.1. 3 Ex. A. 4 Ex. 2. 5 Ex. 3. 6 Ex. 5. 00-�98� 13. The Board of Directors of REDA objects to granting the license because it believes that a check cashing business does not fit in with the desired retail categories in the business area.' REDA believes there are adequate check cashing opportunities in the district and that adding another one may increase criminal activities such as robbery or money laundering. 14. REDA's concerns do not include any concern about Mr. or Ms. Ortega. 15. in a letter dated June 22, 2000 the West Side Citizens Organization advised the City that its building and land use committee was recommending the denial of the license because it believes that there are ample opportunities for people to exchange currency in the area, and that the license does not fit into the community's plan for development. Based upon the foregoing Findings of Fact, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: CONCLUSIONS 1. The City Council of the City of St. Paul and the Administrative Law Judge have jurisdiction in this matter pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 14.55 and the St. Paul Legislative Code §§ 310.05, 310.06 and 381.02. 2. The City of St. Paul has fulfilled all relevant substantive and procedural requirements of law and rule. 3. The City of St. Paul has given proper notice of the hearing in this matter including proper notice in accordance with the requirements set forth in Minn. Stat. Ch. 53A and § 381 of the Legislative Code of the City of St. Paul. 4. The applicant has complied with the application requirements set out in law. 5. St. Paul Legislative Code Section 381.03(b)(4)(i} provides that a currency exchange license may be disapproved if: 7he location of a new currency exchange as proposed would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhoods within three hundred (300) feet of the exchange. Such anticipated effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. ' Ex. 2. $ Ex. A. 9 Ex. B. o�-� � �' 6. That the record in this matter does not show by clear and convincing evidence that the location of the proposed currency exchange would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhood. Based upon the foregoing Conclusions, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: RECOMMENDATION IT IS HEREBY RESPECTFULLY RECOMMENDED: That the St. Paul City Council approve the currency exchange license application of Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul. Dated this 7th day of July 2000. �:� GEORGE A. B K Administrative Law Judge Reported: Taped, No Transcript Prepared. NOTICE Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 53A.04, the St. Paul City Council is required to forward its approval or disapproval of the license application to the Commissioner of Commerce of the State of Minnesota for the Commissioner's approval or disapproval. If the application is denied, the Commissioner shall mail notice of the denial and the reason therefor to the applicant. The applicant, upon denial, may request a further hearing as provided for in Minn. Stat. § 53A.04(b). MEMORANDUM A hearing in this matter was scheduled due to objections to the currency exchange license application by the Riverside Economic Development Association and the West Side Citizens Organization. Their specific objections are set out at Findings of Fact Nos. 13-15. LIEP staff testified that the application satisfied the technical requirements of statute and legislative code. The legislative code also provides, however, that the location of a new currency exchange can be disapproved if it would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts on the neighborhoods within 300 feet of the exchange. The Legislative Code sets out a stringent burden of proof for those attempting to show significant adverse consequences-such an effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. oD�� Both of the objecting organizations made it clear that they do not object to Mr. or Mrs. Ortega. They operate 10 grocery stores in the metropolitan area and provide significant services to the Hispanic community. The organizations object, rather, to fhe nature of the business and are concemed that it may cause an increase in crime. They also believe that opportunities currently exist to cash checks. The concerns presented by the organizations do not amount to a showing of significant adverse consequences by clear and convincing evidence. The concern about criminal activity is speculative. The record shows that check cashing opportunities in the neighborhood will not be a new service. The license will permit the applicant to charge somewhat higher fees but it will also be accompanied by regulation by the Minnesota Department of Commerce that should ameliorate some of the concerns expressed. As the applicant pointed out, the currency exchange will not be the primary function at this location and it is likely better to have such a license contained within a grocery store than in a stand alone facility. The record does not indicate that there have been any complaints about the existing check cashing service at Las Americas, Inc. Accordingly, it is recommended that the City Council approve the license application. C�L'�3'- � � � OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAINT PAUL IN RE THE MATfER OF THE LICENSE APPLICATION OF LAS AMERICAS, INC. D/B/A LAS AMERICAS, INC. 178 CONCORD STREET SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA 55107 bo CITY'S PROPOSED EXHIBITS July 5, 2000 TO: Judge George A. Beck, Administrative Law Judge, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401- 2138 The following constitutes a list of the City's proposed exhibits for the Administrative Hearing on Wednesday, July 5, 2000. Exhibit No. Exh. No. 1 Exh. No. 2 Exh. No. 3 Exh. No. 4 Description Currency Exchange License Application material from the State of Minnesota, Department of Commerce (15 pp.); Letter from Riverview Economic Development Association, dated June 12, 2000, with attachments (3 pp.); Notice of Hearing dated June 26, 2000, with Affidavit of Service (3 pp.); Notice of Public Hearing for publication (1 p.); Exh. No. 5 Publication notice and Affidavit of Publication for Thursday, June 29, 2000 t� p•)• � bo��g� Also attached please find courtesy copies of applicable State of Minnesota statutes and St. Paul City ordinances: St. Pau1 Legislative Code Chapter 381 Minnesota Statute Chapter 53A RespectFully submitted this 5th day of July, 2000. .� a Virginia . Palmer Assistant City Attorney Office of the City Attorney 400 City Hall 15, West Kellogg Boulevard Saint Pauf, Minnesota 55102 (612)266-8719 Do-t�9� MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMII�RCE Financial Examinafions Division May 15, 2000 City Clerk City of St. Paul 170 City Hall St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: Currency Exchange License Application Las Americas, Jnc. Deaz City Clerk: FtfCEf�JEf3 MAY 16 200U CI�Y �i�ERI( Enclosed is a copy of an application submitted by Odelia Ortega to operate a cunency exchange business at 178 Concord Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota. The name ofthe currency exchange company is Las Americas, Inc. ' Minnesota Statute 53A.04 (a) states: "Within 30 days after the receipt of a complete application, the commissioner shall deny the application or submit the application to the goveming body of the locai unit of government in which the applicant is located or is proposing to be located. The commissioner may not approve the application without the concurrence of the goveming body. The goveming body shall give published notice of its intention to consider the issue and shall solicit testimony from interested persons, including those in the community in which the applicant is located or is proposing to be located. If the governing body has not approved or disapproved the issue within 60 days of receipt of the application, concurrence is presumed. The commissioner must approve or disapprove the application within 30 days from receiving the decision of the goveming body. The governing body shall have the sole responsibility for its decision. The state shall have no responsibility for that decision." Please respond in writing within 60 days of the receipt of this notice as to the decision of the governing body regarding the application for the currency exchange operation. If I do not hear from you within 60 days, approval will be presumed and the license will be issued. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. V e truly yours, ��/ �^� - ��'r Robin H. Brown Financial Examinations Division (651)282-9855 Enclosure cc: Odelia Ortega 133 East Seventh Street, St. Paul, MN 55101-2333 Telephone (651) 296-2135 • Fax (651) 296-8591 • TTY/IDD (651) 296-2860 e-mail: financialC�state.mn.us Web Site: www.commerce.stz -°- •�� _ An Fyual Opportunity En �."..'"..`' .."`......b� ,.,,.,.,,.�.. �Ny......�..,,. .,. �, -�,as Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc.— City's Exh. No. l . ::;- STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTNIENT OF COMMERCE DFVISION OF FINANCIAL EXAMINATIONS 133 EAST 7TFI STREET ST. PAUL, NIINNESOTA 55101 (651)282-9855 OFFICE USE ONLY Deputy Asst. Chief Review Data Entry Curtency Ecchange . CASHIER USE ONLY Staze of A�Gnnea �� comm�ra OCT 21 1999 i vi; °�" ^� License Number Processing Date l(�� ' . i S�rety Bond Number . � y �� loCo �.... CURRENCY EXCHAl\GE Insurance Company NAIC Number LICENSE APPLICATION vri i�L .t n�rtr4--l�ns Cm, ,!n The data, which you furnish on this form, will be used hy the Departrnent of Commerce to assess your qualificarions for a Iicense. Disclosure of your social security number is voluntlry. You are not legally required to provide this data; however, if you do not provide your social security number, the Department of Commerce may be unable to grant a license. The Department may use social security numbers for revenue recapture as authorized by Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 270A 1nd for identificadon purposes. After issuance of a license, all information contained in this appiication, except your social secnrity number, is public pursuant'to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13. TYPE OF LICENSE NEW RENEWAL B. APPLICANT INFOT2MATIOIV NAME OP CURREI�iCY EXCHANGE �aS Amcr�c,o�, 1 NC NAME OF CORPORATTON OR PARTNERSt-iIP O AMENDED LICENSE BUSINESS ADDRESS (No Post Office Boxes) _ / �8_ c'� �a..� �'�. I, 1'yiv�J CITY STATE ZIP CODE ; an �-�- �- -� NAME OP DIVIDUAL MANAGINC THIS LOCATION TELEPHONE NUMBER � FAX NUMBER �c« � �2�-33 7� t��.> ��.�-330� Check one: O SOLE PROPRIETQRSHIP O PARTI3ERSHIP � CORPORATION � l0�/•em �i �"19 � � i vtrit�c-,� Date Place of � cvti r��d1 .. 1.,�; S G'�° � n�c � $� sz MN/DOC CURRENCY EXCHANGE APPL 7/99 1 / o'l COUNTY /' �- ri STATE TA ID NUMBER �`�4 4�� E-MAIL ADDRESS O ASSOCIATION 0 LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP O LIMITED LIABTLITY COMPANY �i State 8!4/1994 STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE DIVISION OF FINAIYCIAL EXAMINATIONS 133 EAST TTH STREET � ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA 55101 (651) 282-9855 ❑ RENEWAL CASHIER USE ONLY 0�-�9� License Number Processing Date _ • '3 ��:� � = t _:�� Surety Bond Number `�:�• CURRENCY EXCHANGE Insurance Company NAIC Number LICENSE APPLICATION The data, which you furnish on this form, will be used by the Department of Commerce to assess your qualifications for a license. Disclosure of your social security number is voluntary. You are not legally required to provide this data; however, if you do not provide your social security number, the Department of Commerce may be unable to grant a license. The Department may use social security numbers for revenue recapture as authorized by Minnesota Scatutes, Chapter 270A and for identification purposes. After issuance o€.a license, all information contained in this application, except your social security number, is public pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13. A. TYPE OF ] , �iJ` NEW , INFORMATION OFFICE USE ONLY Deputy Asst. Chief Review Data Entry Cu�renry Excha¢ge O AMENDED LICENSE NAN� vr �:.unKENCY EXCHANGE �As RVYtCR�CAS 1�vc I3AME OF CORPORATIOI3 OR PARTNERSI�' �,AS �mer�cas, 1i1IG. BL3SIlVESS ADDRESS (No Post Office Boxes) 1�� Co vi c � Q � e. CITY �/ STATE ZIP CODE 5�• �G�t�e� �1'l, f Vt neSvfw S.5 l0 7 NAME OF LvDIVIDUAL M NAGING THIS LOCATION O �h��. DOL� q� TELEPHOi�iE NUMBER FAX NUMBER (�tz)g2� (Gf�.) g2.�-3308 Check one: Cal Date of ❑ SOLE PROPRIETORSHtP ❑ PARTi�IERSHIP J�I CORPORATION r��eY (`� 1 � �ora[ion or Orsanization i41'Vi S-� STATE TAX ID 0 ASSOCIATION O LIMITED LIABILTI'Y PARTNERSHIP O LIMTTED LIABILTTY CO�ANY Se� t � �u-,-, �/ Sf�- 4t. fL��. r�n� �wrns�v Wi t'V Place State MN/DOC CURRENCY EXCHANGE APPL 7/99 1 �3�� C. Addiuonal Iicensed currency exchange tocations operated by the applicant (use separate sheet if addirio�� j space is needed). � fj _�� ! Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) �1� d {�l �2 � City State Zip Code co�ncy � Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County � Street Address (P.O. Boxes aze not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County � Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County D. Please ptovide the names and complece business addresses of owners, partners, offcers, stockholders (owning 10% or more of the corporate stock), and employees with authority to exercise management or policy cantrol over the company. Pull Name Official Percent Residence Social Security girth Date Title Ownershi Address Number DcP c 1��c Cl� � r r r . (�o% !v -. z«kt s�. � i 2 $. AI.L applicants must answer the following questions. If any questions are answered "YES," you MUST attach a detailed writtea explanation and any legal documentation, if apQlicable. �j� „( Have you, any of the owners, partners, officers, managers, directors, or shareholders owning more than 10% of the corporate stock: YFS NO O � 1. Held a currency exchange license in any o[her state other fihan ivIinnesota? If YFS, the new licec�se application must include a uerification of Sicense certified by the state(s); all other applicaats must verify that the certification(s) previonsly submitted is accurate. u 0 C � 2. Been the subject of any inquiry or investigation by any division oF the Minnesota Department of Conuaerce? l� 3. Had any occupatioaal license cansured, suspended, revoked, caucelled, terrninated or been . the subject of any type of administrative acuon in any state including Minnesota? � 4. Have you ever been charged with, or convicted of, or been indicted for, or entered a plea to, any criminal offense (felony, gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor), other thln ll�affic violations, in any State or Federal Court? O �7 5. Been a defendant in any lawsuit involving claims of fraud, misrepresentarion, conversion, mismanagement of funds or breach of contract? O O O O a f,�1 6. Been notified by the Commissioner of Revenue, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section �� 270A.72, that you currently owe the St�ite of Minnesota taxes? � 7. Have any unclaimed properry (unclaimed Funds or property over 3 years old) to report under �� Minnesota Statutes, Sec[ion 34537? f� 8. Filed for bankruptcy or protection from creditors or currently have outstanding unsatisfied judgment(s)? iv �.� 9. Been affiliated with any other currency exchange? 10. Wiil the applicant sell lottery tickets a[ the licensed location? I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION AND ANY ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS ARE TRUE AND CORRECT TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE. I CERTIFY THAT THIS DOCUMENT HAS NOT BEEN ALTERED OR CHANGED II�t ANY MANNER FROM THE FORM ADOPTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE. l ° � � �'t Signature of Owner,�P aal� �f4 � Print Name of Owner, or Corporate Officer � ��-�---� rr sic�-� ; ,d or Corporate Officer 3 � �� 5 � �' `.�t �`' �/ � f . °`-�`'"�- I � � � 7�� r c �r�s�� C�. -� ��r � �/� ��- � C'i9 sh-��s G�-i �f �` ; �, po -�R� � � 5 � yyt � s, �� ,vG�- �_� �� j 7 � ��,,,�� !/1'I {� S S !� 7 , �U'yt Cvl� /d�`/ . j �. � � G° "'` P � � I s w�� h.��-�- v� -� ��i � � � • RODOlFO G. TRUJILLO A /� / � �� /� G� � ' IIpTpRY PUBLIC-NINNESOTA d l 1VC%��` � / pnMS�' coue+rr 1 Wycomm. �ras Jan. s1, ZOD� ��l � ., / 1 �_ � / V �� C c� r r-� � �� -e s �hY �� 1� , nRyTO l i- �r ��s��, �---�- v � J �D= _ a.• C��k'S ��e-�- , �- p � ro ,� c � �ks �h��-e.. �Ioo ��, ��e, 00-�9� d �� `b - o�, �� F �,(�.,Q C� �"r �-c- �-e S S �..Q�a u- S U C�9��.,.�r�.i��/ s � . . � `, . � 00�9� STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTMEI3T OF PUBLIC SAFETY BUREAtT OF CRIMINAL APPREHENSION CRIMINAL JUSTICE INFORMATION SYSTEM SECTION 1246 UNIVBRSITY AVB, ST PAL7L, MN 551�4 - 4197 (651) 642-0670 TTY (651) 282-6555 ' Date: 1999/O8/31 Name: ORTEGA, ODELIA UNKNOWN DOB; 1960/02f28 SEQ #: 1420 This letter certifies that a search has been made of the criminal history files maintained in Minnesota by the Department of Public: Safety, Bareau of Criminal Apprehension. The search was performed by Name and Date of Birth. The result of this search indicates that no record was found based on the above search criteria. This does not preclude the possible existence o£ adcTitional information located at county or city levels. If you have questions about this record please contact the telephone number above. «� 3 � �� . ,�� e r 1 -�-c � �1J81�� '"�e�R �,� S.�,fi �,N 5 �n'►�'�� ,o s� L 1�C- � 3`�d �_ �,��-� 5� ��J G 5� jtit YI� S S`� D 23 u ,pr�s��-� � o( � � �G��s - 1�� 5 ��,.�.��.,�,��: � -t��3 �°��- � �h S�. C�°`�'"', ��-h � y�t�l�, �`'� S5�/ � 5(�,.&� �r�n �'' mol.-1�,�� ; �,� `- '- �.� _ , ��'�a� ��- � �x State of yiinnesota O�ca of the Secratzry of State ARTICLES O� I�ICORPORATlaN - Chap4er 302A � � • The undersigned�incorporators, who are natural persons 18 years of ;ge or older, in order to form a corpo�ate entity under Minnesota Statutes, 302A, adopt the foilowing articfas of incorporation: ARTICLE i The nartte of this corporation is: Corpontion Name fmust helW� a corpown The registered office of this eorporotion is located at: Saeet A lYbu may nut ' n P.0.8ox} Cicy, S�at T� � E. � � . � ARTICLE il � Soa inam:c'an¢ en rovur.s sida }er eom�la4.'t3 thiitotm. 3�.9� �s �0�9�� SSJt b 8 I �a�, �M . The registered agent at that address is (Note: Th2 appoinUnent of an agent is optionaqc � Nam�otAfl�nt � • �� , . � , ARTICIE UI Numb�r of Sha+es The corporaticn is authorized ta issus an aggregate totaf of: JO 0 � U (You must list a minimum of one share in this box.) � .� '�' - � , ARTICIs tV 9 � •rua. . We, the undersigned incorporators certify that we are authorized to execute these articles end we further certify Lhat we understand that by signing thesa articles, we are subjecc to tha penaities of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if we had signed these articies under oath. . . '` � rhe names and addresses of tfie incorporators are (Note: Onty one ��corporator is required under Section 302A.105;: Nsrtq ; �7Dc%�a �xrE�,�. Addrnss (mey nat be a port otR:� box) iyUS� Do:u/�.vy H✓-,V % ��/. 55 S� /�- STATE sc ooi�i-0z A incoryoretor'z Sipnawro (Att incorporston must siqn thc articlas) Od.��'� �.�� MlNNESOTA NT Of 57AiF �iLED . { 1 � 1992 � �/�7cmw� : i�l � �'i.'� i • OVER Ofl3 ��'� �ECRETI�RY�Q� STATE state of Minn� CERTIFICATB OF INCORPORATIOH 319 po�9� � I; Joan Anderson Groxe, Secretary of State oE xinnesota, do certiEy that: Articles oE Incorporation, -- � duly signed and acknovledg.ed oath, have been Eiled on this date in the OfEice oE the Secretar�+ of State, £or the � incorQoration oE the Eolloving corporatzon, under and in accordance.with the provisions oE the.chapter of I{innesota Statutes listed belov. - This corporation is nor+ legally under the lavs of ?tinnesota. � Corporate Nane: Las A�nericas, Inc. eo�porate Charter Nunber: 7P-502 Chapter Forsed Under: 302A � D. �.� -r S T 7�Q ��73�2bS � � / 9� �o .6:� �� Secretary of Sta[e. � This certi£icate has been issued on 11/17/1$92. I ......:.....:...... �: ,:�. �. ��,� ��- _,, ;.._.z�: : :rF _ .y .�: �� yJ . :, , - .., Minnesota Secretary of State . � Annual Regist�ation for Minnesota � Business Corporations . •.. fife by Dec. 31, 1997 � - � Do not send this form to the Department of Revenu� 00 :�R �. M-SS i- All infomution on this form is available to the public. Read the instructions on the back before completing. . Information on lines 1 and 2 must match the infomiaHon in your original azlicles of incorporation or subsequent amendments. T'his forni cannot be used Eo make any changes to your articles of inmrporafion. If there aze any changes to lines 1 br 2 of this form, you must amend your articles of incorporation separaEely. An amendment form and $35 filing fee must be included with your annual registrafion. You may obtain the necessary forms by calling the Office of the Seaetary of State at (612) 296-2803. , 1 Full legal name oi cdrporation /� � - ' l_Gt3 /"1"rvtet� CQS� �• . '1 Registered office addren �PO 6os O / nof acceQled) .. . j�pl �-," �..ot.Gc� •' Sf �nf�. n� $ Principol ezecufive office address �PO box 9 noi accepkd� . /r_.. . ,—. t ! . � f. ,a�ra 4 State oF incorporation Minnesota 6 Name and complete business address c D �eriG� ��' S-2�W��v, ' �l-(E 7 Does this corporation own, lease or hbve any finantial inMre:t in ogriculhiral Iand or land capable of being farmedi ^ Check one yes no _� $ Name oF contact person: $ignoNre Daytime phone � 61a� 8a�- 33 � or represenianva , If this form is filed by December 31,1997, there is no fee for filing the annual registration. PENALTY—If you do not file this form each yeu, your corporation will lose its good standing and be requized to pay a 525 fee to regain good standing. If you do not file for three consecutive years, the corporation will be dissolved under Minnesota law (M.S. 302A.821). MAILING iNSTRUCT10N5 � IF NO FEE(S) are due: IF FEEtS) are due: RETURN ALL DOCUMEN'I'S TO RETURN ALL DOCUMENTS AND FEES TO Seaetary of State Secretary of State Records Processing Section 180 State Office Building 555 Park St., Suite 402 100 Constitutional Ave. St. Paul, MN 55103-2110 . St. Paul, MN 55155-1299 Srack No. dpppd80 Prinrad on rscyclad popar wi�h I OX poncon��mm w�b u�iy nybaud ink. paqZaqpB R�v. 10/96 � (S . '•�MN' �SS4�0� tata 'p . . M,,: � 55�s Srate Zip .. -:er- $ Corpomte thaYter number � /� ' � � � executive officar (or person who ca�ries ouf (uncfions of CEOJ � � 1 �- ��ee .S�'�., N � ST.AT� OF MINNESOTA � •r BOND NUMBER: 95661 CURRENCY EXCHANGE SURETY BOND ��_( KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS: That Las Americas, Inc. (Name of Currency Exchange) a Minnesota Check Cashing Corporation (Description or fortn of business organization, including state of incorporation) with business office at 178 Concord Street, St. Paui, Minnesota, 55107 (SVeef Address, City, State, Zip) as PRINCIPAL and Empire Fire & Marine Insurance Company (Name of Surety) a corporation duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska which is authorized to engage in the business of insurance in the State of Minnesota, as SURETY, are hereby heid and firmly bound to the Department of Commerce of the State of Minnesota in the sum of TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($10,000). Principai and Surety hereby bind themselves, their representatives, successors and assigns, jointly and severally by these presents. The parties further agree that: 1. The purpose of this obligation, which is required by Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.08, is to secur.e the compliance by Principal with the terms of Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.02 to 53A.13, and any other legal obligations arising out of the Principal's conduct as a currency exchange. 2. This bond is for the benefit of the State of Minnesota and all persons suffering damages by reason of the Principal's failure to comply with Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.0210 53A.08, or other legal obligations arising out of Principai's conduct as a currency exchange. 3. If the Principai shall violate Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.02 to 53A.08, or other legal obiigations arising out of its conduct as a currency exchange, the Commissioner of Commerce, as well as any person damaged as a result of such violation shall have, in addition to all other legal remedies, a right of action on this bond in the name of the injured party for loss sustained by the injured party. 4. This bond shail be effective from May 11th, 2000 until December 31, 2000. Signed and Sealed this 11th day of May, 2000. Empire Fire & Marine Insuran e Company Las Americas, Inc. (Name ty) (Name of Currency Exchange) BY: � BY: �C�� (Signature of Attorney in Fact) Odelia rtega, Presid t FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Approved as to form and execution by the Director of Licensing. SIGNATURE TE REV. 6/95 . , ".. . • �D �� STATE OF C`i I�* G� ) )ss. COUNTY OF �� ) ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRINCIPAL{S) BE IT KNOWN, that on the �Z�"day of � 1��OQ personaily appeared before me, Odelia Ortega to me well known to be the person who executed the foregoing bond, and has acknowiedged the same to be her own free act and deed, and that she executed the same for the uses and purposes therein expressed. .�� - - - - _�� , _ � � � RODOLFO G. TR` , � Notary F Minnesota iExpire�.�ar ;; 1005 , STATE OF ) )ss. COUNTY OF 2 J�G � ) ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRINCIPAL(S) (CORPORATE) , On this 12�day of �� Z�, personally appeared before me Odelia Ortega personally known, who, being by me dul sworn; did say that she is the President of the corporate principal(s) named in the foregoing bond; that the seal affixed thereto is the corporate seal of the corporation(s) that said bond was executed in behalf of the corporation(s by authority of its Board of Directors; and she acknowledged said ir�i�u� + �ea�Tnccnc 1 r � ree��eed of the corporation. My STATE OF MINNESOTA ) COUNTY OF HENNEPIN ) Notary PubliC Minnesata Expirec Jari. 3t, 2005 )ss. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF SURETY On this 11th day of May, 2000, before me personally appeared Richard H. Davies to me personaliy known, who being sworn did say that he is the Attorney-In-Fact of the EMPIRE FIRE & MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY, that the seal affixed to the foregoing iRStrument is the corporate seal of that corporation, and that said instrument was executed on behalf of the corporation by authority of its Board of Directors; he acknowledged said instrument to be the free act and deed of said corporation. .� PAMELA M. DRIESCH ��_�� m� Notary Public My Comm¢san E�pcaha IIf.Y(105 EMPIR[ Flft[ ANO MA(tINE INSURANCE COMI'ANY OMAHA,NEBRASKA POW[R OF ATTORN[Y nD��RO Know All Men by These Presents: Thal lMis Power of Attorney is nvl val�J or in e(lect uniess allached lo Ihe bvnd wluch it nuihu�v�•�. �•��.ui�• bw m:ry I�e det��ched by the approviny vfficer if desued • . 7hat LMPIRE FIftE ANU MAftWL" INSUf2ANC[ GOMPANY, a eo�poration duly orya�uzed iu,d�� th�� i•nr.: ul Il�e ::I.de u( Ileb�cis�a. and haviny its princ�ual office in lhe City ot Omaha, Counly o( Douylas, Sla[e ot Nebraska, dues hr�r.6y make. c.onsldute anJ appuiul R�chard FI. Davies. Bruce A. Myers, Nicholas L Newlon, Carviyn L Davies, Ueborah n.H- La�son r�nd V��.�on.� A ita�elte ls Irue anJ lawfut Altorney(s)-in-fac(. (o make, execute. siyn, seat and deliver (or and orr its behal( as su<<:ty a+�<! :is �ts .ie.1 arid deeJ any aiid all bonJs and unJertakinys of su�etyship. NOT EXCEEDtNG IN AMOUNT Seven Hundred and Fi(tv Thousand and No/100------------------------------------------------- -----:--- U�Iia�s (y T50.000. ) and io bmd [MPIRE FIR[ ANO MARINE INSUf2ANCE COMPANY thereby as fuity a�id to Ihe same extent as if su�h bonds and undertahmys . nJ other wntinys ubliyaloiy in lhe nalure lhereof were siyned by an Execulive Ofhcer ul LMPIKf- FIIiG ANU ivi/U21NE IN;;U(iANCE COh1Pl1NY anJ sealeJ ancl allesteJ !o by one other of such o(ficers, and heieby �ahlies an� wniums all lhal tls saiJ Attoincyls)'in�ta�l may Ju in pursuance hereof. t his puwer of aUomey is yranled under and by autho�ity of Arlicle III, Seclion 3.7 0( lhe liy-Laws of Ihe LMI'IKE f=1KL ANU tviARINC iNSUtiANC[ COMPANY and by Resolution of lhe Ooard of Direclors duly adopted as foilows: 'nu bunJs, policies, unJertakinys or olher obliyalions of Ihe corporalion shail be execuled in lhe cuipuiate namc uf the Coni{�any by ihe Chauman ol lhe Uoard, President, any Vice-Presidenl, Secrelary, any Assistanl Secretary, vr T�easurer, or Ly su�h uZher o�lice�s as lhe Uoard of Direclors may authvrize. The Chairman of lhe 6oard, President, any Vice-PresiJenl, Secielary, auy Assislanl 5e� retary, or Ihe Treasurer may appoinl Altorneys in Facl or Ayenls who shall have aulhurity lo issue Lunds, puhcies, oi undertakings �n Ihe name ol lhe Company. Tlie corporale seal is nol necessary for lhe validity of any bonJs, policies, unJertakinys or vlher ubiiy.iiions ot Ihe coiporalion." ii is cerUfied thal lhe above is a true and exact copy. In Wilness Whereof, Ihe EMPIRE FIRE AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY has caused Ihese p�esenls to be siyned by its President, and its corporale seal to be hereto affixed, duly allesled by its Secretary this 4lh Jay of June , t JJD. Allest: �� 8a=�� STATE OF NEBRASKA ) ) ss. COUNTY OF DOUGLAS) [MPIR[ FIRE AND MARW[ INSUK/�NCL= GOMI'AN'( Secretary � �j ��(�� ', P�esiJenl On this 4lh day of June . A.D. 199E1 , 6e(ore me personally came Amy S. F3ones to me known, who beiny by me duty sworn, did depose and say: that she resides in the Cvunty of Douylas, State of Nebraska; lhal she is lhe Secrelary uf lhc LMPIit[ 1'IHL" AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY, the wrporation described in and which executed the above insirwnenl: Uial she knuws lhe sea� of said corporalion; that the seal affixed to lhe said inslrument is such corporate seal; lhat it was so afGxed by uiJer of lf�e ESoaiJ of Directors of said corporalion and that she signed her name lhereto by like order. Siyned and sealed at the City of Omaha. Daled 4lh day of June , 1�3�p . � eteee,uxot�ar•s��«an�eu:�� .. � � �� . 10tiN T. KINSIER � MTCamT.Exp.0ea9,fi00 / otaryPublic CERTIFICATE I i, (he undersigned, Secrelary of the EMPIRE FIRE AND MARINE WSURANC - COMPANY, A Nebiaska Coipuiatiun UO t IL'1 �CUY CERTIFY ihat Uie foregoing and attached POWER OF ATTORNEY remains in full torce and has nol been revuked, anJ Iwtlicnnore, thal lhe Resolulions of ihe 8oard of Direclors sel forth in the Power of Altomey are now in (orce. Siyned and sealed at the City of Omaha. Dated the llth day of Lfay . 2000 EM 4010 (0�-98) �N ` /// �� } � {{{ �� JJJ ' ' ' / � Secrela�y � , o��' RIVERVIEW ECONONIIC DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION 7une I2, 2�00 Gerry StratUman Legislative Hearing Officer 310 City Hall l5 West Kellogg Blvd. Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 �-. ..�.��. The Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA) is a community development corporation (CDC) on the West Side that promotes and assists with commercial activity. On behaif of the Board of Directors of REDA, I am writing to object to the issuance of a Currency Exchange License for Las Americas at 17& Concord Street. As the Community Development Corporation in this area, we aze opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. The Board of Directors has concerns that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the desired retail categories as documented in the 1999 Market Study conducted by the Gibbs Pl�nning Group, Please read supporting documentation. For further clarification, please contact me at 651-281-0401 or Julie Eigenfeld at 651- 222-6347. Thank you for allowing an opportunity to eapress our concerns. Res tfully, ti�i%1�� ' --- icholas Lopez-Sant REDA Boazd President �E�E�vED JUN � n 2��1 CITY ATTC�RN�.I� Cour�cil ReS@arCh Cetrtet' JUN 15 ��D urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ion o _I.as Amer►cas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc.._ City's Exh. No. 2 176 Concord Street • Saini Paul, MN 55107 • 65t 222-6347 • Fax 651 222-8398 'HO-YlE OF THE GNCO DE .V[AYO" �-�q� 6.4 Key Mazket Nicbes The following � an excerpt fram the Commercial Market An¢lysis prepared for the Riverview Commercial Carridor Revitalization Program by the Gibbs Planning Group, Inc.. Ezecuvve Summary "Ihe Concord S�reet business disrricc is presenUy made ug of numerous prospering small independent businesses and represenu on of St Pani's best opportuniaes for significant expansion. Many of ihe West Side residenrs are loyal cc Concord Sueex h�t�inecse� .a.nd c��p r�Qre �„ , regular bazis. In addition, Concord Street is a unique shopping/ encercainment destinarion due to its unique and authentic Hispanic flavor. Many businesses have successfully expanded their uade area ro include much of the gea[er Minneapolis/Sc Paul region, and several more have this potential. This study finds [hat an addiaona135,000 squaze fee[ of new retail space could be suppottable in the Concord District in the near future. The population base in the trade area is growing and the median income is higher in the Concord Sa'eet hade area than what is average for the City of Sc PauL Fwther, rerail trade is currendy strong in tbe azea - many of the Concord businesses report above average sales. New retail should be loca[ed adjacent to existing retail to estabiish a more concentrated core. It should also carry merchandise tLat rein- forces the Hispanic mix in the azea. New retail offerings such as a rescaisant, coffeehouse, household accessories store and a jewelry store can broaden the appeal of the area, while enhancing the image of the disttict as a unique destination. Consumer perceptlons of Concord Street can also be inproved through better visual merchandising and sueet maintenauce. It would be advantageous for Concord S�et to implement a coordi- nazed management and leasing progam. This, combined with an increased amoimt of modem leasable space in the disuict, caa help attracf new tenanu in desired retail categories. HAY • DOBBS ew Riverview Commercial Corridor Revkalization Progrem 4$ December 3999 �-�gs' . r The following presen[s recommenda¢ons for the addi[ional retail squaze footage that wilI be supportable in the Concord S�eet Disrrict by 2003: sf Retail Category Comments • �ri � 111 ��1 1�� 11 �1 1,SOQ 500 500 Hispanic Restaurant._........_..--.. Fuminue/Antique Stores........... Household Accessories .............. COff2E $llOp.........'-' ................... Cards and Gifrs Crafts and Crafr Supplies Quality/formal with liquor A southwestem/westem emphasis To include sou[hwestem-oriented Iamps and deco:ating accessories Such as Caribou Jewelry and Accessories............ Southwestern Personal Services ....................... Such as hair caze, naii c.are and cleaners Vegetable and Fmit Market Florist 12,000 Drugsrore ................................... A chain such as Snyder's Drugs, offering a full variery of convenience foods, as well as health and beauty aids and presaiption scrvices Figure S: Recommended retail categories. Please refer to Exhibit C of the Appenix (of the Gibbs Documerzt) far the complete recommended T°'ai1 mix wid forecasted e.apenditure pctentials for the year 2003. HAY • DOBBS rn. December 1999 Riverview Commerciai Corridor Revitalization Program �0 ._ . �� _ .. ' • CITY OF SA1NT PAUL Norm Colem¢rs, Mayor June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 OFFICE �THE CITY ATTORNEY �� (p -/ � Clayion M. ��aon, Jr., Ciry Attorney cr,�tor,.�ron 400 Ciry HaII I'e[ephone: 6511668710 ISWestKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:651298-56/9 Saint P¢ul, Minnuotn 5510? NOTICE OF HEARING RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Dear Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmentai Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce oFyour currency exchange license applicafion for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your application by the local goveming body after published notice and pubiic hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381.02 requ'ues that if objections aze received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their objection is as follows: The REDA is opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a public hearing has been scheduled to consider your license application. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paul City Hall/Ramsey County Courthouse, room 41, 15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especiaily if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ion o I.as Amencas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc..— City's Exh. No. 3 ^ Page 2 Odelia Ortega 7une 26, 2000 • � �� Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license appiicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of administering and processing the currency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code filrther requires the applicant to reimburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be billed for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, � c`��,,,�.v� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Comne Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 , . , f _ � STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF RAMSEY ss_ � AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE BY MAIL i i�� ' � JOP.NNE G. CLEMENTS, being first duly sworn, deposes and says that on June 26, 2000, she served the attached NOTICE OF HEARING on the following named person by placing a true and correct copy thereof in an envelope addressed as follows: Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, MN. 55408 Odelia Ortega 1404 Dowling Avenue North Minneapolis, MN. 55412 Odelia Ortega 178 Concord Street St. Paul, MN. 55107 (which is the last known addresses of the same, with postage prepaid, in t� Paul, Minnesota. � person) and depositing ed States mails at St. G Subscribed and sworn to before me this 26th ylaylof Jy�e, 2000. "T � , PETER P. pANGBORN Notary Publi > w �T�'PUauc•Minn�ESptq MY CpMM13SIpN EXAIRE8 JRN.31, 2W3 �o-l�R� NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. 178 Concord Street Saint Paul, MN 55107 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that testimony will be taken from interested persons, including those in the community, with respect to the application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. to operate a currency exchange by license issued under Minn. Stat. §53A.02. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of the license application by the local governing body, after published notice and hearing, within 60 days after receipt of the application from the Commissioner of Commerce. The public hearing has now been scheduled as follows: Date of Hearing : Time : Location : Wednesday, July 5, 2000 9:30 a.m. St. Paul City Hali / Ramsey County Courthouse Room 41, Lower Level 15 West Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55102 The hearing will be conducted by an administrative law judge from the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings, on behalf of the Council of the City of Saint Paul. Name : George A. Beck Office of Administrative Hearings 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Telephone : 612-341-7601 His report and recommendation for action will be forwarded to the Councif for final action. If you have any questions, please call Virginia Palmer, Saint Paul City Attomey's Office 266-8710. urrency xc ange icense pp ca .ion o �,as Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las America5, Inc._ City's Exh. No. 4 �p--C°�� AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION � IQOTICE OF POBLIC HLAT2ING � Currency Es ha �nC Iacense App&eatlon �, of Ias Americas, Inc. - as Ias Americas. Inc. 178 Concord Street s�nt rd,�. � �10� pT"GAS TAHE NO'tyCE tLat tes[imony �+111x taken from intei�ested pecsons. 3nclud'mg Those in' the mmmuni�S, with resPect. to the applirvUOn of� Ias AmHiras. Inc. d{bla Ias Amerires. Inc. tu� ope�ate a cufrenty eXel�ange-tYy �icense issa� ,maer nSinn. smt §53eLOZ- Minn. Stat. §`a3A0�1 xe4us + the apprwel o disappmval Mthe license appllcauon by the locai govern�ng iwdY. after published notice and hear ing, Within Cp days after receipt of the appllca- tion from the Commissioner or Commerce. The publlc hearing has now been schedultd as follows: - - ' Date ufHearing: Wedneeday. Jaly 5. 2000 1Yme: 8:30 a.m. - , Lacatlun: St. Panl Clty Hell/ � xamsep Connty cnartLonse � � . - Ruom 41. Loaer Level 15 West 8ellogg Blvd. � � st.,ra�, �v ssio2 The hearing will be mnducted by an admiius- .trative law judge-from the Minnesota Of9ce of Adminishative Hezrings, onbe,l�alfofthe Council uf the �ty of Saint Pa�1. � � Name: George A BeCk - Office of AdministraNve HeazYngs l0D Washingtoa 3qnare. SWte 1700 Minneapolis. Minaesota-554(11 Telephoar. (g12),SQ1-7801 His report and recommendation for� action m'll be £orwarded to the CountllYor fu�al aetion. If you have azry questions, please ce11 VSrglnia pa]mer, Sain} Paul CiTy Attorne}�s Of5ce��266- 8710_ - ' (J+�ne 29) � —__ '_' ST. PAIIL LEGAL LEDGER =_--- 02008544 State of Mimiesota, County of Ramsey Patrick Boulay, being duly sworn, on oath says that he/ she is the publisher or the publisher's designated agent of the newspaper lmown as the St. Paul Legal Ledger and has full knowledge of the facts wfiich aze stated below: (A) The newspaper has complied with all the requirements constituting qualificafion as a qualified legal newspaper, as provided by Minnesota Statutes 331A.02, 331A.07, and other applicable laws, as amended. (B) The printed Public Hearing which is attached was cut from the columns of said newspaper and was printed and published once; it was published on June 29, 2000. and printed below is a copy of the lower case alphabet from A to Z, both inclusive, which is hereby aclmowledged as being the size and kind of type used in the composition and publication of said notice: abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 6 ��8AR8ARAA. STMARTlN s � �� hf � � �' � P+1y Comm. ExprrBS Jan. 3t. 2005 Ra.e Information ■ 4 (1) Lowest classified rate paid by commercial users for compazable space is $ N/A (2) Maximum rate allowed by ]aw for the above publication is $ 7478 (3J Rate actually charged for the above publication is $ 67.98 urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ►on o _I,as Amencas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc�l City's Exh. No. 5 � Subscribed and sworn to before me this 29th day of June, 2000 � ��J A � X . �- �o� 98� I want to preface my comments today regarding our opposition to licensed check cashing businesses by saying that the opinions and facts presented are not intended to be accusations or indictments of Mr. Ortega. Our desire to prevent a private, fully licensed, check cashing organization in the neighborhood has to do with the adverse consequences that wiil �,affect our community business comdor, not the owner himself. A recent survey of 16 busines� ln our district found that 11 of the 16 offer check cashing or money wiring services. In fact there are 5 businesses that will cash checks or wire money within SQ feet of Mr. Ortega's store - including a community bank. T'here are ample opportunities for those who want to pay to cash checks in our district. By allowing a larger check cashing operation to exist in the middle of our commercial corridor, we are creating a focal point of individuals carrying large amounts of cash. While it would not be his intent, Mr. Ortega would be creating a potential hot spot for robbery. �, al�a -E�nin.4.'t4+�t--3rkz.. -�. .. , ,. r„ .�t,..., : s;,.,s . �• ` viif i eseai v� across ihe counuy mere are numerous examples o2 me negative , -�,�. ,, impactsof check cashing businesses. �'' i � . N`� An article in the Bergen Record reads, "Check cashers have been identified by the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation as a conduit for drug dealers and organized crime groups who use the storefront businesses to convert bags of dirty cash into large denomination, easy- to-conceal bills." The New Jersey Senate 7udiciary Committee is reviewing a biil that will limit the size of checks that check cashing business can cash. This is to prevent�l yundering and fraud. (new cap of $2,500 — Senate Bd! number 212) Studies in Brooktyn, New York and Oakland, Califomia have identified check cashing businesses among what are considered "nuisance" businesses. This is in part due to the spillover of traffic and disorder into residenrial areas. Check cashing businesses were also cited as atiracting non community residents who tend to loiter at or near these places of business. {"Solving Crime Problems in Residemeai Neighlwrhoods: Comprehensive Changes iu Besign, Nfanagement, and Use" by Judith D. Feins, Ph. D., Jcel C. Epstein, Esq., Rebecca Widom April 1997 Issues mrd Practices in Criminal Justice is a publication series of the National Institute oFJustice.) By looking at locai crime statisrics in the city of St. Paul, we found that many areas that have large check cashing operations in the business district, also tend to have higher rates of "crimes against persons" than surrounding areas. While other factors may contribute to these rates, it is a fair assumption to suggest that if the number of people with large amount of cash on their person increases in an area, so will the number of those who prey on these individuals. In conclusion, I wouid like to reiterate that 1) We have many locations for check cashing on our commercial corridor already, and 2) Check cashing businesses are often the locations of crime in inner-city neighborhoods. The Riverview Economic Development Association opposes� granting a license to Mr. Ortega on the grounds that this type of business is atready available in our area, and the creation of a licensed check cashing business wili have an adverse effect on our commercial district. �Eti • Z or�, �1.� ti C��. `F�n w �aMV.d P'i'�M'e�' "'_'�' i � ' \ C June 22, 2000 Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer 310 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Blvd. Saint Paul, MN 55102 Dear Mr. Strathman: � � �o �� 127 West Winifred St. St. Paul, MN 55107 Phone (612) 293-1708 Fax (612) 293-0115 On June 20, 2000 the Building and Land Use (BLU) committee of the West Side Citizens Organization (WSCO) met and discussed Las Americas Inc.'s application for a currency exchange license. The committee recommends the denial of the issuance of this license. The committee feels that there ample opportunities for people to exchange currency in the area and that this use does not fit into the community's plan for development in this area of the neighborhood. Thank you for your consideration of our recommendation. Sincerely, ) OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY �� ((�� Claylon M. Robinson, Jc, Ciry itttorney '2L� d CITY OF SAINT PAUL u�C��iV�D c;vit Division Nonn Coleman, Ma}'or n� „. �� _ � � qQQCiry Nal! Telephane: 651266-8710 �� "" � � '"" � ��%' XS`�t'estKellaggBivd. Faaimile:651298-5619 Saint P¢ul, Minnesota 55102 r� : � �:. � : _ ._. '. ?v�.�, June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 NOTICE OF HEARING RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord 5treet in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmentai Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce of your currency exchange license application for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your application by the local governing body after published notice and public hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381 A2 requires that if objections are received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their obj ection is as foilows: The REDA is opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a public hearing has been scheduled to consider your license application. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paui City HalURamsey County Courthouse, room 41,15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especially if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. Page 2 Odelia Ortega June 26, 2000 Saint Paul Legisiative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license applicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of administering and processing the currency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code further requires the applicant to reimburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be bilied for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, ^ � c�.'�J V �.X.�..�.e� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attorney cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN SS401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 i►� � i OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY �� ✓/ C�� Claytan M. Robinson, Jc, Ciry Atiomey �D � CITY OF SAINT PAUL �= �`�'`� ` D Civil Divisiors NormColeman,Mayor +Rt's, - 7 c�.• �r q �400CiryHall Telephone:657266-8770 ~ 3 y y �� f F `�' J � L � I S Wut Kellogg Blvd. Fauimile: 651298-5679 � Sain! Paul, Minnesota SST,01 �I':_ _-. ,�.''A�jC June 26, 2000 NOTICE OF COUNCII. HEARING Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: Please take notice that a hearing on the report of the Administrative Law Judge conceming the above-mentioned license application has been scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2000, in the City Council Chambers, Third Floor, Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse. You have the opportunity to file exceptions to the report with the City Clerk at any time during normal business hours. You may also present oral or written argument to the council at the Hearing. No new evidence will be received or testimony taken at this hearing. The Council will base its decision on the record of the proceedings before the Administrative Law Judge and on the azguments made and exceptions filed, but may depart from the recommendations of such Judge as permitted by law in the exercise of its judgement and disczetion. Sincerely, �� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Robert Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Cirizens Organization,127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 ......,.., ....... .,.. ,...� . +H f � = qNQ�� - J ' _ ., , y', : � ••., + - June 29, 2000 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota55401-2138 BY Fax and U.S. Mail Virginia D. Pafiner Assistant City Attorney 15 West Kellogg Blvd., Suite 400 St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, Esq. 529 S. 7 St., #636 Minneapolis, MN 55415 RE: In the Matter of the Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, inc. for the Premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Counsel: This wili confirm that the hearing in the above matter will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at the same location because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the morning. �� /� ':/ s. � 1 .- .: Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 Ce��, cc: Docket Coordinator ��-�� Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Administrative Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 s TDD No. (612) 341-7346 • Fax No. (612) 349-2665 JUN.'29'00(THU) 11�26 OFFICE OF ADMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P.0 1 �D-�9� TRANSACTIO� REPORT Transmission Transaction(s) completed NO. TX DATE/TIME DESTINATION 342 J[JN. 29 11 :26 651 298 5619 DURATION PGS. 0° 00' 22' 001 RESULT MODE OK N ECM STA'1'E O� MINN�SOTA OT'FICE 4F ADMIIVIST&1T1'V� HEARIN�S 100 Washingtan Square, Suite 1700 10D Washington Avenue South Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401-2138 June 29, 20b0 BY Fax and U.5. Mait Virginia 0. Palmer Assistant Ciiy Attarney 15 West Keflogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, Esq. 529 S. 7 St., #636 Suite 4DD Minneapolis, MN 55�415 RE: In the Maiter of the Currency F�cchange �icense Application of Las Americas, lno. d'bJa Las Americas, Ino, for the Premises located at 178 Concorct Street in St. Paul dAH Docket Na. 1-2'f 11-12950-3 Dear Counsel: This will confirm that the hearing in the above mattar wil{ begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July �, 20�0 at the same l�cation because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the morning. Since � GEOf2G� A. BECK Administrative Law Judge . JUN.=29'00(THU) 11�27 OFFICE OF ADMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P. 001 j'j0 -�cG TRANSACTIOti REPORT Transmtszion Transaction(s} comPleted N0. TX DATEfTIME DESTINATION 343 JUN.29 13�26 b12 288 Q546 DURATION PGS. 0° 00' 25' 001 RESliLT MODE OK N ECM STATE OF MINNESdTA QFFIGE OF ADMINIST$ATT'V� T�EARINGS 1on Washington 5quare, Suite i7oo 10o Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnasata 55G01-2f38 June 29, 20dQ BY Fax and U.S. Mail Virginia D. Palmer Assistant Ciiy Attorney 15 West Kellogg Bivd., St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, �sq. 529 S. 7 St,, ;�636 Suif� 400 Minneapalis, MN 55415 R�: fn the Matter af the Currency Exchange License Application of �as Americas, lnc, dJbla Las Ameriaas, Ina, for the Premises located at 178 Goncard Street in St. Paul OAH Docket Na. 1-2911-12950-3 pear Counsel: This will confirm that the hearing in the above matter will begin at 1:30 p.tn, on Wednesday, July 5, 20Q0 at the same lacation because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the marning. Since , � GEORGE A. �ECK Administrative Law Judge ORIGlNAL Presented By Referred To OF � � Council File # O O— b�lg' GreenSheet# ��3q9G RESOLUTION AINT PAUL, OTA i� , l5 Committee: Date 1 WHEREAS, Las Americas, Inc., d/b/a Las Americas, Inc., at 178 Concord Street applied 2 to the Minnesota Depariment of Commerce for a currency exchange license at that location; and 4 WHEREAS, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §53A.04 the application was submitted to Saint Paul 5 for approval or disapproval, and notice of the application was duly given by the Office of LIEP 6 of the itttention to consider the application; and 8 WHEREAS, objections were received to the issuance of the license, and a hearing was 9 held before an Administrative Law Judge to determine whether there existed grounds to 10 recommend denial of the license to the Deparhnent of Commerce; and 11 12 WHEREAS, the Administrative Law Judge heard testimony from the organizations 13 opposed to issuance of the license, but issued a Report in which he made conclusions that the 14 record did not support a denial and recommended that the license be approved; now, therefore, be 15 it 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 RESOLVED, that the Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation of the Administrative Law Judge aze hereby accepted as the findings of the Council in this matter and are incorporated herein by reference, and the Council recommends approval of the currency exchange license application by Las Americas Inc. at 178 Concord Street to the Minnesota Department of Commerce. 1 00- 6q8' 2 A copy of this Resolufion, as adopted, shall be sent by first class mail to the licensee and 3 the Aduiinistrative Law Judge. ORIGiNAL Requested by Department of: By: Foxm Approved City At rney By: �� Approved by or for Submission to Council By: � —'_ Approved by Mayor: Date �� By: Adopted by Council: Date �a� Adoptioa Certified by Counci2 Se retary 00 —�qK City Attorney �/2s/oo GREEN SHEET No1Q3°9o. Palmer August 2, 2000 wn Rolrtv6 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES ov�ru�rcrae arccauri � arc�lrouEx ❑ aneteuc ❑ m�xcuaamucoo�c ❑ wwau�a�nuYro ❑ wvdelw��amrairtl ❑ (CIJP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATUR� Finalizing City Council action taken July 12, 2000, adopting the Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation of the Administrative Law Judge recommending approval of the currency exchange license application to th Minnesota Department of Commerce by Las Americas, Inc. at 178 Concord Street. PLANNING COMMISSION CIB COMMfTTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Has itus vgsaJfirm eoxrwrrked undera � tarNic deyaAmenl7 YES NO Has this O�eoNfirm aver been a aty empbyee7 . vES NO Dces this PaisoMrm P� a sldll not rarmalypo�e�e0 bY �Y eurteM edY emPbYee? res rm i. m� ce�o�x� a a!ne�ea �on vES rio � � �ea �� ny_��:r.��.� AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION f COST/REYENUE BUDGETm (CIRCLE ON� YEE NO ACTIVrtYNUMBER . •�. �:_ �!z � .•:. �. oo•�t$' -: Public hearing to consider the report of the Administrative Law Judge concerning the Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc., 178 Concord Street. Note: Since the ALJ hearing on this matter was just held on July 5, the report will not be available until the early part of next week. i�� OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY CI¢ytors M. Robinson, Ja, City Attorney � D�q � �� CITY OF SA1NT PAUL Norm Colemnn, Mrsyor June 26, 2000 CivilDivision 400CiryHa11 Telephane:651266-8710 ISWestKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:G51298-5619 Sainr P¢ul, Minnuota 55101 NOTICE OF HEARING �'�`` �`�� :i;i i.n� v � � �a. - Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmental Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce of your currency exchange license application for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your appiication by the local governing body after published notice and pubiic hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381.02 requires that if objections are received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their objection is as follows: The REDA is opposed to any business wLose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a d'srect increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a pubiic hearing has been scheduled to consider your license appiication. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paui City Hall/Ramsey County Courthouse, room 41,15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especially if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. Page 2 Odelia Ortega June 26, 2000 •• • 1 Saint Paul Le�slative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license applicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of adininistering and processing the cunency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code further requires the applicant to reunburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be billed for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, / �� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 1�0 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Cozrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Boazd President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY Gayton M. Robinson, Jr., Ciry Attorney C'2�-(p�'f� CITY OF SAINT PAUL Norm Coleman, Mayor June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street civftDivistoa 400 CiryHa71 Telephone: 657 266-87l0 lSWertKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:651298-5619 Saint Paul, Minnuota SSIA2 NOTICE OF COUNCIL HEARING E „ �� t�Q�'�! �r'�''_ Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 �� RE: Currency Exchange License ApphcaYiori of Las Americas, Inc. d!b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul ' � �„,_ , ��._ . __ � Dear Ms. Ortega: Please take notice that a hearing on the report of the Administrative Law Judge conceming the above-mentioned license application has been scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2000, in the City Council Chambers, Third Floor, Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse. You have the opportunity to file exceptions to the report with the City Clerk at any time during norxnal business hours. You may also present oral or written argument to the council at the Hearing. No new evidence will be received or testimony taken at this hearing. The Council will base its decision on the record of the proceedings before the Administrative Law Judge and on the arguments made and exceptions filed, but may depart from the recommendations of such Judge as permitted by law in the exercise of its judgement and discretion. Sincerely, �� Virginia D. Paimer Assistant City Attorney cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Robert Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Cirizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 JUL. -D1' OOIFRII 14�20 OfPICE OF A�M[N. HEARfNG TEL:61Z3492665 P.001 i� • • 1-2'111-12950-3 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CfTY OF ST. PAUL in the Matter of the LiGense App4ication of FINDINGS OF FACT. Las Americas, Inc. d/h/a Las Americas, CONCLUSIONS AND Inc. for the Premises located at 178 RECOMMENPATION Concord Streat in St. Paul The above-entitled matter came on for hearing before Administrative Law Judge George A. Seck, serving as hearing officer for the St. Paul City Council on July 5, 2000 at 1:30 p,m. in Room 41, St. Paul City Hall, Ramsey County Courthouse. The record closed at the conclusion of the hearing. Virginia D. Paimer, Assistant Gity Attorney, 400 City Hali, 15 West Kellogg Bivd., St. Paul, MN 55102, appeared on behalf of the Offce of License, Inspeckions and Environmental Protection {LIEP). Jo�dan S. Kuschner, Attorney at Law, 529 South Seventh Street, Suite 636, Minneapolis, MN 55415, appeared representing Las Americas, Inc, OTIC This Report is a recommendation, �ot a final decision. The Sf. Paul City Council will make the final decision after a review of the record and may adopt, reject or modify these Findings of Fact, ConGusions and Recommendation. Under Section 310.05(ej(c-1) of the City's Legislative Code, the City Council will provide the applicant the opportunity to present oral or written argument to the City Council before it takes final action. Patties should contact the St. Paul City Council to determine to the procedure for presenting argument. STATEM�NT OF ISSUE Should this application for a currency exchange license be approved by the St, Paul City Council? Based upon all of the proceedings herein, the Administretive Law Judge makes the following: FfNDiNGS OF FACT �. On May 16, 2000 the DepaRment of Commerce forwarded an application for a cutrency exchange license to the City of St. Paul. The application had been submitted to the Department by Odelia Ortega, to operate a JUL-07-2000 14�44 6123492665 96i P.01 JUL. -07' 00 (FRf I 14:20 OFFICE OF ADMIN. HE�RING TEL:6123492665 a currency exchange business at 17B Concord Avenue in St. Paul. The application indicates ihat the name of the currency exchange wi11 be las Americas, Inc., which is a Minnesota corporation.' . 2. A sea�ch of criminal history filed by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension found no record for Odelia drtega. 3. The proposed location fo� the currency exchange is not within one- half mite of another licansed currency exchange. 4. The currency exchange is proposed to be located in a grocery store aiready operated by Las Americas, lnc. at the proposed location. 5. The operation of a currency exchange at the proposed location is consistent with the St. Paul Zoning Code. 6. The proposed location is in compliance with the fire and health requirements of the City of 5t. Paul. 7. The grocery store at the proposed location is the primary business at that location, aithough if also offers other services such as check cashing and Western Union. Approximately 98% of the customers are Hispanic and many do not speak English. B. At the present time the grocery store at the proposed location is ahle to cash checks under state law if the fee is Isss than 1%. 9. There are approximately 11 businesses within one mile of the proposed focalion that can cash checks, including a community bank. 10. lJpon receipt of the appiication from the Department of Commerce the City provided notice of the appiication to community organizations. In a letter dated June 12, 2000 the president of the Riverview Economic Qevelopment Association (REDA) advised the Ci1y ihat it was objecting to the issuance of the currency exchange license. 11. On June 26, 2000 the City issued a Notice of Hearing on the application which set a hearing for July 5, 2000. 12. The Notice of Public Hearing was published in the St. Paul Legal tedgar on June 29, 200� 6 'Ex.�. 'Ex.1. 3 Ex, A. " Ex. 2. 6 Ex. 3. 6 Ex. 5. P. OC? �-�98 JUL-07-2000 14:44 6123492665 96i P.02 JUL. -07' OO IFRI) 14:2a n OFFICE OF AOMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P. 00's pD —f��d� 13. The Board of Directors of REAR objects to granting the iioense because it believes that a check cashing business does not fit in with the desired retail categories in the business area.' REDA believes there are adequate check cashing opportunities in the district and that adding another one may increase criminal activities such as robbery or money laundering. 14. REDA's concerns do noi include any concern about Mr. or Ms. Qrtega. 15. in a letter dated June 22, 2000 the West Side Citizens Organization advised the City that its building and land use committee was recommending the deniai of the license because it believes thaf there are ample opportunities for people fo exchange currency in the area, and that the license does not fit into the community's plan for development. Based upon the foregoing Findings ofi Fact, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: CO NCLUSfONS 1. The City Council of the City of St. Paul and the Administrative Law Judge have jurfsdiction in this matter pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 14.55 and the St, Paui Legislative Code §§ 310.05, 310.06 and 361.02. 2. The City of St. Paul has fulfilled a{I rele�ant substantive and procedural requirements of law and rule. 3. The City of St. Paul has given proper notica of the hearing in this matter including propar notice in accordance with the requirements set forth in Minn. Stat. Ch. 53A and § 3B1 of the Legisiative Code of the City of St. Paul. 4. 7he applicant has complied with the application requirements set out in law. 5. St. Paul Legislative Code Section 381.03(b)(4)(i) provides that a currency exchange license may be disapproved if: The location of a new currency exchange as proposed would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighboThoods within three hundred {30�) feet of the exchange. Such anticipated effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. 7 Ex. 2. B Ex. A. ° Ex. B. JUL-07-2009 14:45 6123492665 96i P.03 JUL.-07'00(FRI� 14:20 OFFICE OF A�KIN.NE�RING TEL:612349?665 6. That the record in this matter does not show by clear and convincing evidence that the location of the proposed currancy exchange would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhood. Based upon the fo�egoing Conclusions, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: RECOMMENDATION 17 IS HEREBY RESPECTFULLY RECOMMENQED: That the St. Paul City Council approve the currency exchange iicense application of Las Americas, inc. for tha premises located at 178 Concord Street in Sf. Paul. Dated this � �� jrl .': 7th day of July 200�. .� GEORGE A. B K Administrative Law Judge Reported: Taped, No Transcript Prepared. NOTICE Pursuant to Minn. Stai. § 53A.Q4, the St. Paul City Council is required to forward its approval or disapproval of the license application to the Commissioner of Commerce of the State of Minnesota for the Commissioner's approval or disapproval. If the application is denied, the Commissioner shall mail notice of the denial a�d the reason therefor to the applicant. 7he applicant, upon denial, may request a further hearing as provided for in Minn. Stat. § 53A.Q4(b). MEMoRANDUM A hearing in this matter was scheduled due to objections to the currency exchartge license application by the Riverside Economic Development Association and the West Side Citizens Organization. Their specific objections are set out at Findings of Fact Nos. 13-15. LIEP staff testified that the application satisfied the technical requirements of statute and legislative code. The legislative code also provides, however, that the location of a new currency exchange can be disapproved if it would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts on the neighborhoods within 300 feet of the exchange, 7he Legislative Code sets out a stringent burden of proof for those attempting to show significant adverse consequences-such an effect must be shown by cfear and convincing evidence. TUL-07-2000 14�45 6123492665 96� P•� JUL. -07' 00(FRII 14:21 OFF(CE OF A�NIh. HEARING iEL:612349?665 Both of the objecting organizations made it clear that they do not object to Mr, or Mrs, Ortega. They operate 10 grocery stores in the metropolitan area and provide significant services to the Hispanic commun'ity. 7he otganizat�ons object, rather, to the nature of the 6usiness and are concemed that it may cause an increase in crime. They also believe that opportunities currently exist to cash checks. The concerns presented by the organizations do not amount fo a showing of significant adverse consequences by clear and convincing evidence. The concern about criminal activity is speculafive. The record shows that check cashing oppoRunifies in the neighborhood will not be a new service. 7he license wi11 permit the applicant to charge somewhat higher fees but it will also be accompanied by regulation by the Minnesota Department of Commerce that should ameliorate some of the concerns expressed. As the applicant pointed out, the currency exchange will not be the primary function at this location and it is likely better to have such a license contained within a grocery store than in a stand alone facility. The record does not indicate that there have been any complaints about the existing check cash(ng service at Las Americas, Inc. Accordingly, it is recommended that the City Council approve the license application. G.A.B. P. 005 p Q� �D JUL-07-20E0 14�46 6123492665 96� P.aS �� `� °.i= ��` y _�� ` �%i�$T� l July 11, 2000 STATE OF MINNESOTA O�'FICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota 5540�-2138 Fred Owusu, City Clerk 170 Ciiy Hail 15 West Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: in the Matter of the License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the Premises located at 178 concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Mr. Owusu: �CE►V�p dUC 112000 CITY �LE Enclosed please find the original Affidavit of Service in the above matter which is to be attached to the original Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Recommendation which was sent to you on July 7, 2000. Also enclosed is a copy of the hearing tape in the above matter. Sincerely, �,�li�¢,rr�c�C� .�C� - U GEORGE A. BECK � Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 GAB:cr Encl. Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 � TDD No. (612) 341-7346 s Fax No. (612) 349-2665 STATE OF MINNESOTA} ) Ss COUNTY OF HENNEPIN} AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE BY U.S. MAIL Cindy Ringdahl, being first dufy sworn, hereby deposes and says that on the 7th day of J�, 2000, at the City of Minneapolis, county and state aforementioned, she served the attached FINDINGS OF FACT, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION: OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 by depositing in the United States mail at said City of Minneapolis, a true and correct copy thereof, properly enveloped, with first class postage prepaid and addressed to the individuals named herein. Fred Owusu, City Clerk 170 City Hall 15 West Keflogg Bivd. St. Paul, MN 55902 Jordan S.Kuschner Attorney at Law 529 S. 7 St., Suite 636 IV�inneapolis, MN 55415 Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attorney 15 W. Kellogg Blvd., Suite 400 St. Paul, MN 55902 Riverview Economic Dev. Assn. 176 Concord St. St. Paul, MN 55107 r Cindy Ring a I Subscribed and sworn to before me this 7th day of Juiy , 2000. LaVON REGAN woewr rueue • �sm� AAY COMMISSION EXpIRES JANUAflY 3t.2005 ��`-,"� � ��.�" f .�.. �'"�� ` —_� July 7, 2000 STATE OF MINNE50TA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota55401-2138 �£C�YE� Fred Owusu, City Clerk �� 200� 170 City Hall CITY CLERK 15 West Kellogg Bivd. St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: ln the Matter of the License Application of Las Americas, inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the Premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Mr. Owusu: 00 �� Enclosed herewith and served upon you by maif is the Administrative Law Judge's Findings of Fact, Conciusions and Recommendation in the above- entitled matter. A1so enclosed is the official record, Our file in this matter is now being closed. Sincerely, �\�� C GEORGE A. BECK Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 GAB:cr Encl. cc: Virginia D. Palmer Jordan S. Kuschner REDA .,� . Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 � TDD No. (612) 341-7346 o Fax No. (612) 349-2665 ob-�R� 1-2111-12950-3 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ST. PAUL In the Matter of the License Application of FINDINGS OF FACT. Las Americas, inc. d/b/a Las Americas, CONCLUSIONS AND Inc. for the Premises located at 178 RECOMMENDATION Concord Street in St. Paul The above-entitled matter came on for hearing before Administrative Law Judge George A. Beck, serving as hearing officer for the St. Paul City Council on July 5, 2000 at 1:30 p.m. in Room 41, St. Paul City Hall, Ramsey County Courthouse. The record closed at the conclusion of the hearing. Virginia D. Pa{mer, Assistant City Attorney, 400 City HaA, 15 West Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55102, appeared on behalf of the Office of License, Inspections and Environmental Protection (LIEP). Jordan S. Kuschner, Attorney at Law, 529 South Seventh Street, Suite 636, Minneapoiis, MN 55415, appeared representing Las Americas, Inc. NOTICE This Report is a recommendation, not a final decision. The St. Paul City Council will make the final decision after a review of the record and may adopt, reject or modify these Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Recommendation. Under Section 310.05(c)(c-1) of the City's Legislative Code, the City Council will provide the applicant the opportunity to present oral or written argument to the City Council before it takes final action. Parties should contact the St. Paul City Council to determine to the procedure for presenting argument. STATEMENT OF ISSUE Should this application for a currency exchange license be approved by the St. Paul City Council? Based upon all of the proceedings herein, the Administrative Law Judge makes the fallowing: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. On May 16, 2000 the Department of Commerce forwarded an application for a currency exchange license to the City of St. Paul. The application had been submitted to the Department by Odelia Ortega, to operate a �o -�q � a currency exchange business at 178 Concord Avenue in St. Paul. The application indicates that the name of the currency exchange will be Las Americas, Inc., which is a Minnesota corporation.� 2. A search of criminal history filed by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension found no record for Odelia Ortega? 3. The proposed location for the currency exchange is not within one- half mile of another licensed currency exchange. 4. The currency exchange is proposed to be located in a grocery store already operated by Las Americas, Inc. at the proposed location. 5. The operation of a currency exchange at the proposed location is consistent with the St. Paul Zoning Code. 6. The proposed location is in compliance with the fire and health requirements of the City of St. Paul. 7. The grocery store at the proposed location is the primary business at that location, although it also offers other services such as check cashing and Western Union. Approximately 98% of the customers are Hispanic and many do not speak English. 8. At the present time the grocery store at the proposed location is able to cash checks under state law if the fee is less than 1%. 9. There are approximately 11 businesses within one mile of the proposed location that can cash checks, including a community bank. 10. Upon receipt of the application from the Department of Commerce the City provided notice of the application to community organizations. In a letter dated June 12, 2000 the president of the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA) advised the City that it was objecting to the issuance of the currency exchange license. 11. On June 26, 2000 the City issued a Notice of Hearing on the application which set a hearing for July 5, 2000. 12. The Notice of Public Hearing was published in the St. Paul Legal Ledger on June 29, 2000. ' Ex. 1. Z Ex.1. 3 Ex. A. 4 Ex. 2. 5 Ex. 3. 6 Ex. 5. 00-�98� 13. The Board of Directors of REDA objects to granting the license because it believes that a check cashing business does not fit in with the desired retail categories in the business area.' REDA believes there are adequate check cashing opportunities in the district and that adding another one may increase criminal activities such as robbery or money laundering. 14. REDA's concerns do not include any concern about Mr. or Ms. Ortega. 15. in a letter dated June 22, 2000 the West Side Citizens Organization advised the City that its building and land use committee was recommending the denial of the license because it believes that there are ample opportunities for people to exchange currency in the area, and that the license does not fit into the community's plan for development. Based upon the foregoing Findings of Fact, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: CONCLUSIONS 1. The City Council of the City of St. Paul and the Administrative Law Judge have jurisdiction in this matter pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 14.55 and the St. Paul Legislative Code §§ 310.05, 310.06 and 381.02. 2. The City of St. Paul has fulfilled all relevant substantive and procedural requirements of law and rule. 3. The City of St. Paul has given proper notice of the hearing in this matter including proper notice in accordance with the requirements set forth in Minn. Stat. Ch. 53A and § 381 of the Legislative Code of the City of St. Paul. 4. The applicant has complied with the application requirements set out in law. 5. St. Paul Legislative Code Section 381.03(b)(4)(i} provides that a currency exchange license may be disapproved if: 7he location of a new currency exchange as proposed would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhoods within three hundred (300) feet of the exchange. Such anticipated effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. ' Ex. 2. $ Ex. A. 9 Ex. B. o�-� � �' 6. That the record in this matter does not show by clear and convincing evidence that the location of the proposed currency exchange would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts upon the neighborhood. Based upon the foregoing Conclusions, the Administrative Law Judge makes the following: RECOMMENDATION IT IS HEREBY RESPECTFULLY RECOMMENDED: That the St. Paul City Council approve the currency exchange license application of Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul. Dated this 7th day of July 2000. �:� GEORGE A. B K Administrative Law Judge Reported: Taped, No Transcript Prepared. NOTICE Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 53A.04, the St. Paul City Council is required to forward its approval or disapproval of the license application to the Commissioner of Commerce of the State of Minnesota for the Commissioner's approval or disapproval. If the application is denied, the Commissioner shall mail notice of the denial and the reason therefor to the applicant. The applicant, upon denial, may request a further hearing as provided for in Minn. Stat. § 53A.04(b). MEMORANDUM A hearing in this matter was scheduled due to objections to the currency exchange license application by the Riverside Economic Development Association and the West Side Citizens Organization. Their specific objections are set out at Findings of Fact Nos. 13-15. LIEP staff testified that the application satisfied the technical requirements of statute and legislative code. The legislative code also provides, however, that the location of a new currency exchange can be disapproved if it would cause significant adverse consequences or impacts on the neighborhoods within 300 feet of the exchange. The Legislative Code sets out a stringent burden of proof for those attempting to show significant adverse consequences-such an effect must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. oD�� Both of the objecting organizations made it clear that they do not object to Mr. or Mrs. Ortega. They operate 10 grocery stores in the metropolitan area and provide significant services to the Hispanic community. The organizations object, rather, to fhe nature of the business and are concemed that it may cause an increase in crime. They also believe that opportunities currently exist to cash checks. The concerns presented by the organizations do not amount to a showing of significant adverse consequences by clear and convincing evidence. The concern about criminal activity is speculative. The record shows that check cashing opportunities in the neighborhood will not be a new service. The license will permit the applicant to charge somewhat higher fees but it will also be accompanied by regulation by the Minnesota Department of Commerce that should ameliorate some of the concerns expressed. As the applicant pointed out, the currency exchange will not be the primary function at this location and it is likely better to have such a license contained within a grocery store than in a stand alone facility. The record does not indicate that there have been any complaints about the existing check cashing service at Las Americas, Inc. Accordingly, it is recommended that the City Council approve the license application. C�L'�3'- � � � OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS FOR THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAINT PAUL IN RE THE MATfER OF THE LICENSE APPLICATION OF LAS AMERICAS, INC. D/B/A LAS AMERICAS, INC. 178 CONCORD STREET SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA 55107 bo CITY'S PROPOSED EXHIBITS July 5, 2000 TO: Judge George A. Beck, Administrative Law Judge, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401- 2138 The following constitutes a list of the City's proposed exhibits for the Administrative Hearing on Wednesday, July 5, 2000. Exhibit No. Exh. No. 1 Exh. No. 2 Exh. No. 3 Exh. No. 4 Description Currency Exchange License Application material from the State of Minnesota, Department of Commerce (15 pp.); Letter from Riverview Economic Development Association, dated June 12, 2000, with attachments (3 pp.); Notice of Hearing dated June 26, 2000, with Affidavit of Service (3 pp.); Notice of Public Hearing for publication (1 p.); Exh. No. 5 Publication notice and Affidavit of Publication for Thursday, June 29, 2000 t� p•)• � bo��g� Also attached please find courtesy copies of applicable State of Minnesota statutes and St. Paul City ordinances: St. Pau1 Legislative Code Chapter 381 Minnesota Statute Chapter 53A RespectFully submitted this 5th day of July, 2000. .� a Virginia . Palmer Assistant City Attorney Office of the City Attorney 400 City Hall 15, West Kellogg Boulevard Saint Pauf, Minnesota 55102 (612)266-8719 Do-t�9� MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMII�RCE Financial Examinafions Division May 15, 2000 City Clerk City of St. Paul 170 City Hall St. Paul, MN 55102 RE: Currency Exchange License Application Las Americas, Jnc. Deaz City Clerk: FtfCEf�JEf3 MAY 16 200U CI�Y �i�ERI( Enclosed is a copy of an application submitted by Odelia Ortega to operate a cunency exchange business at 178 Concord Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota. The name ofthe currency exchange company is Las Americas, Inc. ' Minnesota Statute 53A.04 (a) states: "Within 30 days after the receipt of a complete application, the commissioner shall deny the application or submit the application to the goveming body of the locai unit of government in which the applicant is located or is proposing to be located. The commissioner may not approve the application without the concurrence of the goveming body. The goveming body shall give published notice of its intention to consider the issue and shall solicit testimony from interested persons, including those in the community in which the applicant is located or is proposing to be located. If the governing body has not approved or disapproved the issue within 60 days of receipt of the application, concurrence is presumed. The commissioner must approve or disapprove the application within 30 days from receiving the decision of the goveming body. The governing body shall have the sole responsibility for its decision. The state shall have no responsibility for that decision." Please respond in writing within 60 days of the receipt of this notice as to the decision of the governing body regarding the application for the currency exchange operation. If I do not hear from you within 60 days, approval will be presumed and the license will be issued. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. V e truly yours, ��/ �^� - ��'r Robin H. Brown Financial Examinations Division (651)282-9855 Enclosure cc: Odelia Ortega 133 East Seventh Street, St. Paul, MN 55101-2333 Telephone (651) 296-2135 • Fax (651) 296-8591 • TTY/IDD (651) 296-2860 e-mail: financialC�state.mn.us Web Site: www.commerce.stz -°- •�� _ An Fyual Opportunity En �."..'"..`' .."`......b� ,.,,.,.,,.�.. �Ny......�..,,. .,. �, -�,as Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc.— City's Exh. No. l . ::;- STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTNIENT OF COMMERCE DFVISION OF FINANCIAL EXAMINATIONS 133 EAST 7TFI STREET ST. PAUL, NIINNESOTA 55101 (651)282-9855 OFFICE USE ONLY Deputy Asst. Chief Review Data Entry Curtency Ecchange . CASHIER USE ONLY Staze of A�Gnnea �� comm�ra OCT 21 1999 i vi; °�" ^� License Number Processing Date l(�� ' . i S�rety Bond Number . � y �� loCo �.... CURRENCY EXCHAl\GE Insurance Company NAIC Number LICENSE APPLICATION vri i�L .t n�rtr4--l�ns Cm, ,!n The data, which you furnish on this form, will be used hy the Departrnent of Commerce to assess your qualificarions for a Iicense. Disclosure of your social security number is voluntlry. You are not legally required to provide this data; however, if you do not provide your social security number, the Department of Commerce may be unable to grant a license. The Department may use social security numbers for revenue recapture as authorized by Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 270A 1nd for identificadon purposes. After issuance of a license, all information contained in this appiication, except your social secnrity number, is public pursuant'to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13. TYPE OF LICENSE NEW RENEWAL B. APPLICANT INFOT2MATIOIV NAME OP CURREI�iCY EXCHANGE �aS Amcr�c,o�, 1 NC NAME OF CORPORATTON OR PARTNERSt-iIP O AMENDED LICENSE BUSINESS ADDRESS (No Post Office Boxes) _ / �8_ c'� �a..� �'�. I, 1'yiv�J CITY STATE ZIP CODE ; an �-�- �- -� NAME OP DIVIDUAL MANAGINC THIS LOCATION TELEPHONE NUMBER � FAX NUMBER �c« � �2�-33 7� t��.> ��.�-330� Check one: O SOLE PROPRIETQRSHIP O PARTI3ERSHIP � CORPORATION � l0�/•em �i �"19 � � i vtrit�c-,� Date Place of � cvti r��d1 .. 1.,�; S G'�° � n�c � $� sz MN/DOC CURRENCY EXCHANGE APPL 7/99 1 / o'l COUNTY /' �- ri STATE TA ID NUMBER �`�4 4�� E-MAIL ADDRESS O ASSOCIATION 0 LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP O LIMITED LIABTLITY COMPANY �i State 8!4/1994 STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE DIVISION OF FINAIYCIAL EXAMINATIONS 133 EAST TTH STREET � ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA 55101 (651) 282-9855 ❑ RENEWAL CASHIER USE ONLY 0�-�9� License Number Processing Date _ • '3 ��:� � = t _:�� Surety Bond Number `�:�• CURRENCY EXCHANGE Insurance Company NAIC Number LICENSE APPLICATION The data, which you furnish on this form, will be used by the Department of Commerce to assess your qualifications for a license. Disclosure of your social security number is voluntary. You are not legally required to provide this data; however, if you do not provide your social security number, the Department of Commerce may be unable to grant a license. The Department may use social security numbers for revenue recapture as authorized by Minnesota Scatutes, Chapter 270A and for identification purposes. After issuance o€.a license, all information contained in this application, except your social security number, is public pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13. A. TYPE OF ] , �iJ` NEW , INFORMATION OFFICE USE ONLY Deputy Asst. Chief Review Data Entry Cu�renry Excha¢ge O AMENDED LICENSE NAN� vr �:.unKENCY EXCHANGE �As RVYtCR�CAS 1�vc I3AME OF CORPORATIOI3 OR PARTNERSI�' �,AS �mer�cas, 1i1IG. BL3SIlVESS ADDRESS (No Post Office Boxes) 1�� Co vi c � Q � e. CITY �/ STATE ZIP CODE 5�• �G�t�e� �1'l, f Vt neSvfw S.5 l0 7 NAME OF LvDIVIDUAL M NAGING THIS LOCATION O �h��. DOL� q� TELEPHOi�iE NUMBER FAX NUMBER (�tz)g2� (Gf�.) g2.�-3308 Check one: Cal Date of ❑ SOLE PROPRIETORSHtP ❑ PARTi�IERSHIP J�I CORPORATION r��eY (`� 1 � �ora[ion or Orsanization i41'Vi S-� STATE TAX ID 0 ASSOCIATION O LIMITED LIABILTI'Y PARTNERSHIP O LIMTTED LIABILTTY CO�ANY Se� t � �u-,-, �/ Sf�- 4t. fL��. r�n� �wrns�v Wi t'V Place State MN/DOC CURRENCY EXCHANGE APPL 7/99 1 �3�� C. Addiuonal Iicensed currency exchange tocations operated by the applicant (use separate sheet if addirio�� j space is needed). � fj _�� ! Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) �1� d {�l �2 � City State Zip Code co�ncy � Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County � Street Address (P.O. Boxes aze not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County � Street Address (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable) � City State Zip Code County D. Please ptovide the names and complece business addresses of owners, partners, offcers, stockholders (owning 10% or more of the corporate stock), and employees with authority to exercise management or policy cantrol over the company. Pull Name Official Percent Residence Social Security girth Date Title Ownershi Address Number DcP c 1��c Cl� � r r r . (�o% !v -. z«kt s�. � i 2 $. AI.L applicants must answer the following questions. If any questions are answered "YES," you MUST attach a detailed writtea explanation and any legal documentation, if apQlicable. �j� „( Have you, any of the owners, partners, officers, managers, directors, or shareholders owning more than 10% of the corporate stock: YFS NO O � 1. Held a currency exchange license in any o[her state other fihan ivIinnesota? If YFS, the new licec�se application must include a uerification of Sicense certified by the state(s); all other applicaats must verify that the certification(s) previonsly submitted is accurate. u 0 C � 2. Been the subject of any inquiry or investigation by any division oF the Minnesota Department of Conuaerce? l� 3. Had any occupatioaal license cansured, suspended, revoked, caucelled, terrninated or been . the subject of any type of administrative acuon in any state including Minnesota? � 4. Have you ever been charged with, or convicted of, or been indicted for, or entered a plea to, any criminal offense (felony, gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor), other thln ll�affic violations, in any State or Federal Court? O �7 5. Been a defendant in any lawsuit involving claims of fraud, misrepresentarion, conversion, mismanagement of funds or breach of contract? O O O O a f,�1 6. Been notified by the Commissioner of Revenue, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section �� 270A.72, that you currently owe the St�ite of Minnesota taxes? � 7. Have any unclaimed properry (unclaimed Funds or property over 3 years old) to report under �� Minnesota Statutes, Sec[ion 34537? f� 8. Filed for bankruptcy or protection from creditors or currently have outstanding unsatisfied judgment(s)? iv �.� 9. Been affiliated with any other currency exchange? 10. Wiil the applicant sell lottery tickets a[ the licensed location? I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION AND ANY ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS ARE TRUE AND CORRECT TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE. I CERTIFY THAT THIS DOCUMENT HAS NOT BEEN ALTERED OR CHANGED II�t ANY MANNER FROM THE FORM ADOPTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE. l ° � � �'t Signature of Owner,�P aal� �f4 � Print Name of Owner, or Corporate Officer � ��-�---� rr sic�-� ; ,d or Corporate Officer 3 � �� 5 � �' `.�t �`' �/ � f . °`-�`'"�- I � � � 7�� r c �r�s�� C�. -� ��r � �/� ��- � C'i9 sh-��s G�-i �f �` ; �, po -�R� � � 5 � yyt � s, �� ,vG�- �_� �� j 7 � ��,,,�� !/1'I {� S S !� 7 , �U'yt Cvl� /d�`/ . j �. � � G° "'` P � � I s w�� h.��-�- v� -� ��i � � � • RODOlFO G. TRUJILLO A /� / � �� /� G� � ' IIpTpRY PUBLIC-NINNESOTA d l 1VC%��` � / pnMS�' coue+rr 1 Wycomm. �ras Jan. s1, ZOD� ��l � ., / 1 �_ � / V �� C c� r r-� � �� -e s �hY �� 1� , nRyTO l i- �r ��s��, �---�- v � J �D= _ a.• C��k'S ��e-�- , �- p � ro ,� c � �ks �h��-e.. �Ioo ��, ��e, 00-�9� d �� `b - o�, �� F �,(�.,Q C� �"r �-c- �-e S S �..Q�a u- S U C�9��.,.�r�.i��/ s � . . � `, . � 00�9� STATE OF MINNESOTA DEPARTMEI3T OF PUBLIC SAFETY BUREAtT OF CRIMINAL APPREHENSION CRIMINAL JUSTICE INFORMATION SYSTEM SECTION 1246 UNIVBRSITY AVB, ST PAL7L, MN 551�4 - 4197 (651) 642-0670 TTY (651) 282-6555 ' Date: 1999/O8/31 Name: ORTEGA, ODELIA UNKNOWN DOB; 1960/02f28 SEQ #: 1420 This letter certifies that a search has been made of the criminal history files maintained in Minnesota by the Department of Public: Safety, Bareau of Criminal Apprehension. The search was performed by Name and Date of Birth. The result of this search indicates that no record was found based on the above search criteria. This does not preclude the possible existence o£ adcTitional information located at county or city levels. If you have questions about this record please contact the telephone number above. «� 3 � �� . ,�� e r 1 -�-c � �1J81�� '"�e�R �,� S.�,fi �,N 5 �n'►�'�� ,o s� L 1�C- � 3`�d �_ �,��-� 5� ��J G 5� jtit YI� S S`� D 23 u ,pr�s��-� � o( � � �G��s - 1�� 5 ��,.�.��.,�,��: � -t��3 �°��- � �h S�. C�°`�'"', ��-h � y�t�l�, �`'� S5�/ � 5(�,.&� �r�n �'' mol.-1�,�� ; �,� `- '- �.� _ , ��'�a� ��- � �x State of yiinnesota O�ca of the Secratzry of State ARTICLES O� I�ICORPORATlaN - Chap4er 302A � � • The undersigned�incorporators, who are natural persons 18 years of ;ge or older, in order to form a corpo�ate entity under Minnesota Statutes, 302A, adopt the foilowing articfas of incorporation: ARTICLE i The nartte of this corporation is: Corpontion Name fmust helW� a corpown The registered office of this eorporotion is located at: Saeet A lYbu may nut ' n P.0.8ox} Cicy, S�at T� � E. � � . � ARTICLE il � Soa inam:c'an¢ en rovur.s sida }er eom�la4.'t3 thiitotm. 3�.9� �s �0�9�� SSJt b 8 I �a�, �M . The registered agent at that address is (Note: Th2 appoinUnent of an agent is optionaqc � Nam�otAfl�nt � • �� , . � , ARTICIE UI Numb�r of Sha+es The corporaticn is authorized ta issus an aggregate totaf of: JO 0 � U (You must list a minimum of one share in this box.) � .� '�' - � , ARTICIs tV 9 � •rua. . We, the undersigned incorporators certify that we are authorized to execute these articles end we further certify Lhat we understand that by signing thesa articles, we are subjecc to tha penaities of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if we had signed these articies under oath. . . '` � rhe names and addresses of tfie incorporators are (Note: Onty one ��corporator is required under Section 302A.105;: Nsrtq ; �7Dc%�a �xrE�,�. Addrnss (mey nat be a port otR:� box) iyUS� Do:u/�.vy H✓-,V % ��/. 55 S� /�- STATE sc ooi�i-0z A incoryoretor'z Sipnawro (Att incorporston must siqn thc articlas) Od.��'� �.�� MlNNESOTA NT Of 57AiF �iLED . { 1 � 1992 � �/�7cmw� : i�l � �'i.'� i • OVER Ofl3 ��'� �ECRETI�RY�Q� STATE state of Minn� CERTIFICATB OF INCORPORATIOH 319 po�9� � I; Joan Anderson Groxe, Secretary of State oE xinnesota, do certiEy that: Articles oE Incorporation, -- � duly signed and acknovledg.ed oath, have been Eiled on this date in the OfEice oE the Secretar�+ of State, £or the � incorQoration oE the Eolloving corporatzon, under and in accordance.with the provisions oE the.chapter of I{innesota Statutes listed belov. - This corporation is nor+ legally under the lavs of ?tinnesota. � Corporate Nane: Las A�nericas, Inc. eo�porate Charter Nunber: 7P-502 Chapter Forsed Under: 302A � D. �.� -r S T 7�Q ��73�2bS � � / 9� �o .6:� �� Secretary of Sta[e. � This certi£icate has been issued on 11/17/1$92. I ......:.....:...... �: ,:�. �. ��,� ��- _,, ;.._.z�: : :rF _ .y .�: �� yJ . :, , - .., Minnesota Secretary of State . � Annual Regist�ation for Minnesota � Business Corporations . •.. fife by Dec. 31, 1997 � - � Do not send this form to the Department of Revenu� 00 :�R �. M-SS i- All infomution on this form is available to the public. Read the instructions on the back before completing. . Information on lines 1 and 2 must match the infomiaHon in your original azlicles of incorporation or subsequent amendments. T'his forni cannot be used Eo make any changes to your articles of inmrporafion. If there aze any changes to lines 1 br 2 of this form, you must amend your articles of incorporation separaEely. An amendment form and $35 filing fee must be included with your annual registrafion. You may obtain the necessary forms by calling the Office of the Seaetary of State at (612) 296-2803. , 1 Full legal name oi cdrporation /� � - ' l_Gt3 /"1"rvtet� CQS� �• . '1 Registered office addren �PO 6os O / nof acceQled) .. . j�pl �-," �..ot.Gc� •' Sf �nf�. n� $ Principol ezecufive office address �PO box 9 noi accepkd� . /r_.. . ,—. t ! . � f. ,a�ra 4 State oF incorporation Minnesota 6 Name and complete business address c D �eriG� ��' S-2�W��v, ' �l-(E 7 Does this corporation own, lease or hbve any finantial inMre:t in ogriculhiral Iand or land capable of being farmedi ^ Check one yes no _� $ Name oF contact person: $ignoNre Daytime phone � 61a� 8a�- 33 � or represenianva , If this form is filed by December 31,1997, there is no fee for filing the annual registration. PENALTY—If you do not file this form each yeu, your corporation will lose its good standing and be requized to pay a 525 fee to regain good standing. If you do not file for three consecutive years, the corporation will be dissolved under Minnesota law (M.S. 302A.821). MAILING iNSTRUCT10N5 � IF NO FEE(S) are due: IF FEEtS) are due: RETURN ALL DOCUMEN'I'S TO RETURN ALL DOCUMENTS AND FEES TO Seaetary of State Secretary of State Records Processing Section 180 State Office Building 555 Park St., Suite 402 100 Constitutional Ave. St. Paul, MN 55103-2110 . St. Paul, MN 55155-1299 Srack No. dpppd80 Prinrad on rscyclad popar wi�h I OX poncon��mm w�b u�iy nybaud ink. paqZaqpB R�v. 10/96 � (S . '•�MN' �SS4�0� tata 'p . . M,,: � 55�s Srate Zip .. -:er- $ Corpomte thaYter number � /� ' � � � executive officar (or person who ca�ries ouf (uncfions of CEOJ � � 1 �- ��ee .S�'�., N � ST.AT� OF MINNESOTA � •r BOND NUMBER: 95661 CURRENCY EXCHANGE SURETY BOND ��_( KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS: That Las Americas, Inc. (Name of Currency Exchange) a Minnesota Check Cashing Corporation (Description or fortn of business organization, including state of incorporation) with business office at 178 Concord Street, St. Paui, Minnesota, 55107 (SVeef Address, City, State, Zip) as PRINCIPAL and Empire Fire & Marine Insurance Company (Name of Surety) a corporation duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska which is authorized to engage in the business of insurance in the State of Minnesota, as SURETY, are hereby heid and firmly bound to the Department of Commerce of the State of Minnesota in the sum of TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($10,000). Principai and Surety hereby bind themselves, their representatives, successors and assigns, jointly and severally by these presents. The parties further agree that: 1. The purpose of this obligation, which is required by Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.08, is to secur.e the compliance by Principal with the terms of Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.02 to 53A.13, and any other legal obligations arising out of the Principal's conduct as a currency exchange. 2. This bond is for the benefit of the State of Minnesota and all persons suffering damages by reason of the Principal's failure to comply with Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.0210 53A.08, or other legal obligations arising out of Principai's conduct as a currency exchange. 3. If the Principai shall violate Minnesota Statutes, Section 53A.02 to 53A.08, or other legal obiigations arising out of its conduct as a currency exchange, the Commissioner of Commerce, as well as any person damaged as a result of such violation shall have, in addition to all other legal remedies, a right of action on this bond in the name of the injured party for loss sustained by the injured party. 4. This bond shail be effective from May 11th, 2000 until December 31, 2000. Signed and Sealed this 11th day of May, 2000. Empire Fire & Marine Insuran e Company Las Americas, Inc. (Name ty) (Name of Currency Exchange) BY: � BY: �C�� (Signature of Attorney in Fact) Odelia rtega, Presid t FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Approved as to form and execution by the Director of Licensing. SIGNATURE TE REV. 6/95 . , ".. . • �D �� STATE OF C`i I�* G� ) )ss. COUNTY OF �� ) ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRINCIPAL{S) BE IT KNOWN, that on the �Z�"day of � 1��OQ personaily appeared before me, Odelia Ortega to me well known to be the person who executed the foregoing bond, and has acknowiedged the same to be her own free act and deed, and that she executed the same for the uses and purposes therein expressed. .�� - - - - _�� , _ � � � RODOLFO G. TR` , � Notary F Minnesota iExpire�.�ar ;; 1005 , STATE OF ) )ss. COUNTY OF 2 J�G � ) ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRINCIPAL(S) (CORPORATE) , On this 12�day of �� Z�, personally appeared before me Odelia Ortega personally known, who, being by me dul sworn; did say that she is the President of the corporate principal(s) named in the foregoing bond; that the seal affixed thereto is the corporate seal of the corporation(s) that said bond was executed in behalf of the corporation(s by authority of its Board of Directors; and she acknowledged said ir�i�u� + �ea�Tnccnc 1 r � ree��eed of the corporation. My STATE OF MINNESOTA ) COUNTY OF HENNEPIN ) Notary PubliC Minnesata Expirec Jari. 3t, 2005 )ss. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF SURETY On this 11th day of May, 2000, before me personally appeared Richard H. Davies to me personaliy known, who being sworn did say that he is the Attorney-In-Fact of the EMPIRE FIRE & MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY, that the seal affixed to the foregoing iRStrument is the corporate seal of that corporation, and that said instrument was executed on behalf of the corporation by authority of its Board of Directors; he acknowledged said instrument to be the free act and deed of said corporation. .� PAMELA M. DRIESCH ��_�� m� Notary Public My Comm¢san E�pcaha IIf.Y(105 EMPIR[ Flft[ ANO MA(tINE INSURANCE COMI'ANY OMAHA,NEBRASKA POW[R OF ATTORN[Y nD��RO Know All Men by These Presents: Thal lMis Power of Attorney is nvl val�J or in e(lect uniess allached lo Ihe bvnd wluch it nuihu�v�•�. �•��.ui�• bw m:ry I�e det��ched by the approviny vfficer if desued • . 7hat LMPIRE FIftE ANU MAftWL" INSUf2ANC[ GOMPANY, a eo�poration duly orya�uzed iu,d�� th�� i•nr.: ul Il�e ::I.de u( Ileb�cis�a. and haviny its princ�ual office in lhe City ot Omaha, Counly o( Douylas, Sla[e ot Nebraska, dues hr�r.6y make. c.onsldute anJ appuiul R�chard FI. Davies. Bruce A. Myers, Nicholas L Newlon, Carviyn L Davies, Ueborah n.H- La�son r�nd V��.�on.� A ita�elte ls Irue anJ lawfut Altorney(s)-in-fac(. (o make, execute. siyn, seat and deliver (or and orr its behal( as su<<:ty a+�<! :is �ts .ie.1 arid deeJ any aiid all bonJs and unJertakinys of su�etyship. NOT EXCEEDtNG IN AMOUNT Seven Hundred and Fi(tv Thousand and No/100------------------------------------------------- -----:--- U�Iia�s (y T50.000. ) and io bmd [MPIRE FIR[ ANO MARINE INSUf2ANCE COMPANY thereby as fuity a�id to Ihe same extent as if su�h bonds and undertahmys . nJ other wntinys ubliyaloiy in lhe nalure lhereof were siyned by an Execulive Ofhcer ul LMPIKf- FIIiG ANU ivi/U21NE IN;;U(iANCE COh1Pl1NY anJ sealeJ ancl allesteJ !o by one other of such o(ficers, and heieby �ahlies an� wniums all lhal tls saiJ Attoincyls)'in�ta�l may Ju in pursuance hereof. t his puwer of aUomey is yranled under and by autho�ity of Arlicle III, Seclion 3.7 0( lhe liy-Laws of Ihe LMI'IKE f=1KL ANU tviARINC iNSUtiANC[ COMPANY and by Resolution of lhe Ooard of Direclors duly adopted as foilows: 'nu bunJs, policies, unJertakinys or olher obliyalions of Ihe corporalion shail be execuled in lhe cuipuiate namc uf the Coni{�any by ihe Chauman ol lhe Uoard, President, any Vice-Presidenl, Secrelary, any Assistanl Secretary, vr T�easurer, or Ly su�h uZher o�lice�s as lhe Uoard of Direclors may authvrize. The Chairman of lhe 6oard, President, any Vice-PresiJenl, Secielary, auy Assislanl 5e� retary, or Ihe Treasurer may appoinl Altorneys in Facl or Ayenls who shall have aulhurity lo issue Lunds, puhcies, oi undertakings �n Ihe name ol lhe Company. Tlie corporale seal is nol necessary for lhe validity of any bonJs, policies, unJertakinys or vlher ubiiy.iiions ot Ihe coiporalion." ii is cerUfied thal lhe above is a true and exact copy. In Wilness Whereof, Ihe EMPIRE FIRE AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY has caused Ihese p�esenls to be siyned by its President, and its corporale seal to be hereto affixed, duly allesled by its Secretary this 4lh Jay of June , t JJD. Allest: �� 8a=�� STATE OF NEBRASKA ) ) ss. COUNTY OF DOUGLAS) [MPIR[ FIRE AND MARW[ INSUK/�NCL= GOMI'AN'( Secretary � �j ��(�� ', P�esiJenl On this 4lh day of June . A.D. 199E1 , 6e(ore me personally came Amy S. F3ones to me known, who beiny by me duty sworn, did depose and say: that she resides in the Cvunty of Douylas, State of Nebraska; lhal she is lhe Secrelary uf lhc LMPIit[ 1'IHL" AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY, the wrporation described in and which executed the above insirwnenl: Uial she knuws lhe sea� of said corporalion; that the seal affixed to lhe said inslrument is such corporate seal; lhat it was so afGxed by uiJer of lf�e ESoaiJ of Directors of said corporalion and that she signed her name lhereto by like order. Siyned and sealed at the City of Omaha. Daled 4lh day of June , 1�3�p . � eteee,uxot�ar•s��«an�eu:�� .. � � �� . 10tiN T. KINSIER � MTCamT.Exp.0ea9,fi00 / otaryPublic CERTIFICATE I i, (he undersigned, Secrelary of the EMPIRE FIRE AND MARINE WSURANC - COMPANY, A Nebiaska Coipuiatiun UO t IL'1 �CUY CERTIFY ihat Uie foregoing and attached POWER OF ATTORNEY remains in full torce and has nol been revuked, anJ Iwtlicnnore, thal lhe Resolulions of ihe 8oard of Direclors sel forth in the Power of Altomey are now in (orce. Siyned and sealed at the City of Omaha. Dated the llth day of Lfay . 2000 EM 4010 (0�-98) �N ` /// �� } � {{{ �� JJJ ' ' ' / � Secrela�y � , o��' RIVERVIEW ECONONIIC DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION 7une I2, 2�00 Gerry StratUman Legislative Hearing Officer 310 City Hall l5 West Kellogg Blvd. Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 �-. ..�.��. The Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA) is a community development corporation (CDC) on the West Side that promotes and assists with commercial activity. On behaif of the Board of Directors of REDA, I am writing to object to the issuance of a Currency Exchange License for Las Americas at 17& Concord Street. As the Community Development Corporation in this area, we aze opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. The Board of Directors has concerns that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the desired retail categories as documented in the 1999 Market Study conducted by the Gibbs Pl�nning Group, Please read supporting documentation. For further clarification, please contact me at 651-281-0401 or Julie Eigenfeld at 651- 222-6347. Thank you for allowing an opportunity to eapress our concerns. Res tfully, ti�i%1�� ' --- icholas Lopez-Sant REDA Boazd President �E�E�vED JUN � n 2��1 CITY ATTC�RN�.I� Cour�cil ReS@arCh Cetrtet' JUN 15 ��D urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ion o _I.as Amer►cas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc.._ City's Exh. No. 2 176 Concord Street • Saini Paul, MN 55107 • 65t 222-6347 • Fax 651 222-8398 'HO-YlE OF THE GNCO DE .V[AYO" �-�q� 6.4 Key Mazket Nicbes The following � an excerpt fram the Commercial Market An¢lysis prepared for the Riverview Commercial Carridor Revitalization Program by the Gibbs Planning Group, Inc.. Ezecuvve Summary "Ihe Concord S�reet business disrricc is presenUy made ug of numerous prospering small independent businesses and represenu on of St Pani's best opportuniaes for significant expansion. Many of ihe West Side residenrs are loyal cc Concord Sueex h�t�inecse� .a.nd c��p r�Qre �„ , regular bazis. In addition, Concord Street is a unique shopping/ encercainment destinarion due to its unique and authentic Hispanic flavor. Many businesses have successfully expanded their uade area ro include much of the gea[er Minneapolis/Sc Paul region, and several more have this potential. This study finds [hat an addiaona135,000 squaze fee[ of new retail space could be suppottable in the Concord District in the near future. The population base in the trade area is growing and the median income is higher in the Concord Sa'eet hade area than what is average for the City of Sc PauL Fwther, rerail trade is currendy strong in tbe azea - many of the Concord businesses report above average sales. New retail should be loca[ed adjacent to existing retail to estabiish a more concentrated core. It should also carry merchandise tLat rein- forces the Hispanic mix in the azea. New retail offerings such as a rescaisant, coffeehouse, household accessories store and a jewelry store can broaden the appeal of the area, while enhancing the image of the disttict as a unique destination. Consumer perceptlons of Concord Street can also be inproved through better visual merchandising and sueet maintenauce. It would be advantageous for Concord S�et to implement a coordi- nazed management and leasing progam. This, combined with an increased amoimt of modem leasable space in the disuict, caa help attracf new tenanu in desired retail categories. HAY • DOBBS ew Riverview Commercial Corridor Revkalization Progrem 4$ December 3999 �-�gs' . r The following presen[s recommenda¢ons for the addi[ional retail squaze footage that wilI be supportable in the Concord S�eet Disrrict by 2003: sf Retail Category Comments • �ri � 111 ��1 1�� 11 �1 1,SOQ 500 500 Hispanic Restaurant._........_..--.. Fuminue/Antique Stores........... Household Accessories .............. COff2E $llOp.........'-' ................... Cards and Gifrs Crafts and Crafr Supplies Quality/formal with liquor A southwestem/westem emphasis To include sou[hwestem-oriented Iamps and deco:ating accessories Such as Caribou Jewelry and Accessories............ Southwestern Personal Services ....................... Such as hair caze, naii c.are and cleaners Vegetable and Fmit Market Florist 12,000 Drugsrore ................................... A chain such as Snyder's Drugs, offering a full variery of convenience foods, as well as health and beauty aids and presaiption scrvices Figure S: Recommended retail categories. Please refer to Exhibit C of the Appenix (of the Gibbs Documerzt) far the complete recommended T°'ai1 mix wid forecasted e.apenditure pctentials for the year 2003. HAY • DOBBS rn. December 1999 Riverview Commerciai Corridor Revitalization Program �0 ._ . �� _ .. ' • CITY OF SA1NT PAUL Norm Colem¢rs, Mayor June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 OFFICE �THE CITY ATTORNEY �� (p -/ � Clayion M. ��aon, Jr., Ciry Attorney cr,�tor,.�ron 400 Ciry HaII I'e[ephone: 6511668710 ISWestKelloggBlvd. Facsimile:651298-56/9 Saint P¢ul, Minnuotn 5510? NOTICE OF HEARING RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Dear Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmentai Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce oFyour currency exchange license applicafion for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your application by the local goveming body after published notice and pubiic hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381.02 requ'ues that if objections aze received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their objection is as follows: The REDA is opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a public hearing has been scheduled to consider your license application. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paul City Hall/Ramsey County Courthouse, room 41, 15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especiaily if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ion o I.as Amencas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc..— City's Exh. No. 3 ^ Page 2 Odelia Ortega 7une 26, 2000 • � �� Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license appiicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of administering and processing the currency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code filrther requires the applicant to reimburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be billed for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, � c`��,,,�.v� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Comne Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 , . , f _ � STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF RAMSEY ss_ � AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE BY MAIL i i�� ' � JOP.NNE G. CLEMENTS, being first duly sworn, deposes and says that on June 26, 2000, she served the attached NOTICE OF HEARING on the following named person by placing a true and correct copy thereof in an envelope addressed as follows: Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, MN. 55408 Odelia Ortega 1404 Dowling Avenue North Minneapolis, MN. 55412 Odelia Ortega 178 Concord Street St. Paul, MN. 55107 (which is the last known addresses of the same, with postage prepaid, in t� Paul, Minnesota. � person) and depositing ed States mails at St. G Subscribed and sworn to before me this 26th ylaylof Jy�e, 2000. "T � , PETER P. pANGBORN Notary Publi > w �T�'PUauc•Minn�ESptq MY CpMM13SIpN EXAIRE8 JRN.31, 2W3 �o-l�R� NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. 178 Concord Street Saint Paul, MN 55107 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that testimony will be taken from interested persons, including those in the community, with respect to the application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. to operate a currency exchange by license issued under Minn. Stat. §53A.02. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of the license application by the local governing body, after published notice and hearing, within 60 days after receipt of the application from the Commissioner of Commerce. The public hearing has now been scheduled as follows: Date of Hearing : Time : Location : Wednesday, July 5, 2000 9:30 a.m. St. Paul City Hali / Ramsey County Courthouse Room 41, Lower Level 15 West Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55102 The hearing will be conducted by an administrative law judge from the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings, on behalf of the Council of the City of Saint Paul. Name : George A. Beck Office of Administrative Hearings 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Telephone : 612-341-7601 His report and recommendation for action will be forwarded to the Councif for final action. If you have any questions, please call Virginia Palmer, Saint Paul City Attomey's Office 266-8710. urrency xc ange icense pp ca .ion o �,as Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las America5, Inc._ City's Exh. No. 4 �p--C°�� AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION � IQOTICE OF POBLIC HLAT2ING � Currency Es ha �nC Iacense App&eatlon �, of Ias Americas, Inc. - as Ias Americas. Inc. 178 Concord Street s�nt rd,�. � �10� pT"GAS TAHE NO'tyCE tLat tes[imony �+111x taken from intei�ested pecsons. 3nclud'mg Those in' the mmmuni�S, with resPect. to the applirvUOn of� Ias AmHiras. Inc. d{bla Ias Amerires. Inc. tu� ope�ate a cufrenty eXel�ange-tYy �icense issa� ,maer nSinn. smt §53eLOZ- Minn. Stat. §`a3A0�1 xe4us + the apprwel o disappmval Mthe license appllcauon by the locai govern�ng iwdY. after published notice and hear ing, Within Cp days after receipt of the appllca- tion from the Commissioner or Commerce. The publlc hearing has now been schedultd as follows: - - ' Date ufHearing: Wedneeday. Jaly 5. 2000 1Yme: 8:30 a.m. - , Lacatlun: St. Panl Clty Hell/ � xamsep Connty cnartLonse � � . - Ruom 41. Loaer Level 15 West 8ellogg Blvd. � � st.,ra�, �v ssio2 The hearing will be mnducted by an admiius- .trative law judge-from the Minnesota Of9ce of Adminishative Hezrings, onbe,l�alfofthe Council uf the �ty of Saint Pa�1. � � Name: George A BeCk - Office of AdministraNve HeazYngs l0D Washingtoa 3qnare. SWte 1700 Minneapolis. Minaesota-554(11 Telephoar. (g12),SQ1-7801 His report and recommendation for� action m'll be £orwarded to the CountllYor fu�al aetion. If you have azry questions, please ce11 VSrglnia pa]mer, Sain} Paul CiTy Attorne}�s Of5ce��266- 8710_ - ' (J+�ne 29) � —__ '_' ST. PAIIL LEGAL LEDGER =_--- 02008544 State of Mimiesota, County of Ramsey Patrick Boulay, being duly sworn, on oath says that he/ she is the publisher or the publisher's designated agent of the newspaper lmown as the St. Paul Legal Ledger and has full knowledge of the facts wfiich aze stated below: (A) The newspaper has complied with all the requirements constituting qualificafion as a qualified legal newspaper, as provided by Minnesota Statutes 331A.02, 331A.07, and other applicable laws, as amended. (B) The printed Public Hearing which is attached was cut from the columns of said newspaper and was printed and published once; it was published on June 29, 2000. and printed below is a copy of the lower case alphabet from A to Z, both inclusive, which is hereby aclmowledged as being the size and kind of type used in the composition and publication of said notice: abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 6 ��8AR8ARAA. STMARTlN s � �� hf � � �' � P+1y Comm. ExprrBS Jan. 3t. 2005 Ra.e Information ■ 4 (1) Lowest classified rate paid by commercial users for compazable space is $ N/A (2) Maximum rate allowed by ]aw for the above publication is $ 7478 (3J Rate actually charged for the above publication is $ 67.98 urrency � xc ange icense pp ica ►on o _I,as Amencas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc�l City's Exh. No. 5 � Subscribed and sworn to before me this 29th day of June, 2000 � ��J A � X . �- �o� 98� I want to preface my comments today regarding our opposition to licensed check cashing businesses by saying that the opinions and facts presented are not intended to be accusations or indictments of Mr. Ortega. Our desire to prevent a private, fully licensed, check cashing organization in the neighborhood has to do with the adverse consequences that wiil �,affect our community business comdor, not the owner himself. A recent survey of 16 busines� ln our district found that 11 of the 16 offer check cashing or money wiring services. In fact there are 5 businesses that will cash checks or wire money within SQ feet of Mr. Ortega's store - including a community bank. T'here are ample opportunities for those who want to pay to cash checks in our district. By allowing a larger check cashing operation to exist in the middle of our commercial corridor, we are creating a focal point of individuals carrying large amounts of cash. While it would not be his intent, Mr. Ortega would be creating a potential hot spot for robbery. �, al�a -E�nin.4.'t4+�t--3rkz.. -�. .. , ,. r„ .�t,..., : s;,.,s . �• ` viif i eseai v� across ihe counuy mere are numerous examples o2 me negative , -�,�. ,, impactsof check cashing businesses. �'' i � . N`� An article in the Bergen Record reads, "Check cashers have been identified by the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation as a conduit for drug dealers and organized crime groups who use the storefront businesses to convert bags of dirty cash into large denomination, easy- to-conceal bills." The New Jersey Senate 7udiciary Committee is reviewing a biil that will limit the size of checks that check cashing business can cash. This is to prevent�l yundering and fraud. (new cap of $2,500 — Senate Bd! number 212) Studies in Brooktyn, New York and Oakland, Califomia have identified check cashing businesses among what are considered "nuisance" businesses. This is in part due to the spillover of traffic and disorder into residenrial areas. Check cashing businesses were also cited as atiracting non community residents who tend to loiter at or near these places of business. {"Solving Crime Problems in Residemeai Neighlwrhoods: Comprehensive Changes iu Besign, Nfanagement, and Use" by Judith D. Feins, Ph. D., Jcel C. Epstein, Esq., Rebecca Widom April 1997 Issues mrd Practices in Criminal Justice is a publication series of the National Institute oFJustice.) By looking at locai crime statisrics in the city of St. Paul, we found that many areas that have large check cashing operations in the business district, also tend to have higher rates of "crimes against persons" than surrounding areas. While other factors may contribute to these rates, it is a fair assumption to suggest that if the number of people with large amount of cash on their person increases in an area, so will the number of those who prey on these individuals. In conclusion, I wouid like to reiterate that 1) We have many locations for check cashing on our commercial corridor already, and 2) Check cashing businesses are often the locations of crime in inner-city neighborhoods. The Riverview Economic Development Association opposes� granting a license to Mr. Ortega on the grounds that this type of business is atready available in our area, and the creation of a licensed check cashing business wili have an adverse effect on our commercial district. �Eti • Z or�, �1.� ti C��. `F�n w �aMV.d P'i'�M'e�' "'_'�' i � ' \ C June 22, 2000 Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer 310 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Blvd. Saint Paul, MN 55102 Dear Mr. Strathman: � � �o �� 127 West Winifred St. St. Paul, MN 55107 Phone (612) 293-1708 Fax (612) 293-0115 On June 20, 2000 the Building and Land Use (BLU) committee of the West Side Citizens Organization (WSCO) met and discussed Las Americas Inc.'s application for a currency exchange license. The committee recommends the denial of the issuance of this license. The committee feels that there ample opportunities for people to exchange currency in the area and that this use does not fit into the community's plan for development in this area of the neighborhood. Thank you for your consideration of our recommendation. Sincerely, ) OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY �� ((�� Claylon M. Robinson, Jc, Ciry itttorney '2L� d CITY OF SAINT PAUL u�C��iV�D c;vit Division Nonn Coleman, Ma}'or n� „. �� _ � � qQQCiry Nal! Telephane: 651266-8710 �� "" � � '"" � ��%' XS`�t'estKellaggBivd. Faaimile:651298-5619 Saint P¢ul, Minnesota 55102 r� : � �:. � : _ ._. '. ?v�.�, June 26, 2000 Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 NOTICE OF HEARING RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord 5treet in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: The City of Saint Paul Office of License, Inspections and Environmentai Protection has received notification from the Minnesota Department of Commerce of your currency exchange license application for Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107. Minn. Stat. §53A.04 requires the approval or disapproval of your application by the local governing body after published notice and public hearing. Saint Paul Legislative Code §381 A2 requires that if objections are received to the application, a hearing shall be held before an independent hearing examiner in conformity with the provisions of §310.05 and §310.06 of the Legislative Code and the rules of the office of administrative hearings. The City has received objections to the issuance of a currency exchange license by the Riverview Economic Development Association (REDA). The basis for their obj ection is as foilows: The REDA is opposed to any business whose primary function is cashing checks. They are concerned that by allowing the issuance of this license, the community will see a direct increase in the volume and presence of check cashing activities. This sort of business does not fit with the type of desired retail business for this area. In accordance with these rules a public hearing has been scheduled to consider your license application. The hearing will be held Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Paui City HalURamsey County Courthouse, room 41,15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Your attendance at this hearing is extremely important, especially if any adverse testimony is presented to which you wish to respond. Page 2 Odelia Ortega June 26, 2000 Saint Paul Legisiative Code Section 381.02(c) requires the license applicant to pay a fee to the City to cover the costs of administering and processing the currency exchange application. The fee for this application is $317.00 and must be paid within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of this letter. The Code further requires the applicant to reimburse the City for its costs in conducting the hearing(s) prescribed by State Law. You may be bilied for those costs after the hearing(s). If you have any questions, I can be reached at 266-8710. Sincerely, ^ � c�.'�J V �.X.�..�.e� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attorney cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN SS401 Bob Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Citizens Organization, 127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 i►� � i OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY �� ✓/ C�� Claytan M. Robinson, Jc, Ciry Atiomey �D � CITY OF SAINT PAUL �= �`�'`� ` D Civil Divisiors NormColeman,Mayor +Rt's, - 7 c�.• �r q �400CiryHall Telephone:657266-8770 ~ 3 y y �� f F `�' J � L � I S Wut Kellogg Blvd. Fauimile: 651298-5679 � Sain! Paul, Minnesota SST,01 �I':_ _-. ,�.''A�jC June 26, 2000 NOTICE OF COUNCII. HEARING Odelia Ortega 401 East Lake Street Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408 RE: Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, Inc. for the premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul Deaz Ms. Ortega: Please take notice that a hearing on the report of the Administrative Law Judge conceming the above-mentioned license application has been scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2000, in the City Council Chambers, Third Floor, Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse. You have the opportunity to file exceptions to the report with the City Clerk at any time during normal business hours. You may also present oral or written argument to the council at the Hearing. No new evidence will be received or testimony taken at this hearing. The Council will base its decision on the record of the proceedings before the Administrative Law Judge and on the azguments made and exceptions filed, but may depart from the recommendations of such Judge as permitted by law in the exercise of its judgement and disczetion. Sincerely, �� Virginia D. Palmer Assistant City Attomey cc: Odelia Ortega, 1404 Dowling Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55412 Odelia Ortega, 178 Concord Street, St. Paul, MN 55107 Nancy Thomas, Office of Administrative Hearings, 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700, 100 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., MN 55401 Robert Kessler, Director, LIEP Christine Rozek, LIEP Corrine Asuncion, LIEP Nancy Anderson, Assistant Council Secretary, 310 City Hall Steve Faust, Community Organizer, West Side Cirizens Organization,127 Winifred St. W., St. Paul, MN 55107 Nicholas Lopez-Santamaria, REDA Board President, 176 Concord St., St. Paul MN 55107 ......,.., ....... .,.. ,...� . +H f � = qNQ�� - J ' _ ., , y', : � ••., + - June 29, 2000 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS 100 Washington Square, Suite 1700 100 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota55401-2138 BY Fax and U.S. Mail Virginia D. Pafiner Assistant City Attorney 15 West Kellogg Blvd., Suite 400 St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, Esq. 529 S. 7 St., #636 Minneapolis, MN 55415 RE: In the Matter of the Currency Exchange License Application of Las Americas, Inc. d/b/a Las Americas, inc. for the Premises located at 178 Concord Street in St. Paul OAH Docket No. 1-2111-12950-3 Dear Counsel: This wili confirm that the hearing in the above matter will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2000 at the same location because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the morning. �� /� ':/ s. � 1 .- .: Administrative Law Judge Telephone: 612/341-7601 Ce��, cc: Docket Coordinator ��-�� Providing Impartial Hearings for Government and Citizens An Equal Opportunity Employer Administrative Law Section & Administrative Services (612) 341-7600 s TDD No. (612) 341-7346 • Fax No. (612) 349-2665 JUN.'29'00(THU) 11�26 OFFICE OF ADMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P.0 1 �D-�9� TRANSACTIO� REPORT Transmission Transaction(s) completed NO. TX DATE/TIME DESTINATION 342 J[JN. 29 11 :26 651 298 5619 DURATION PGS. 0° 00' 22' 001 RESULT MODE OK N ECM STA'1'E O� MINN�SOTA OT'FICE 4F ADMIIVIST&1T1'V� HEARIN�S 100 Washingtan Square, Suite 1700 10D Washington Avenue South Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401-2138 June 29, 20b0 BY Fax and U.5. Mait Virginia 0. Palmer Assistant Ciiy Attarney 15 West Keflogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, Esq. 529 S. 7 St., #636 Suite 4DD Minneapolis, MN 55�415 RE: In the Maiter of the Currency F�cchange �icense Application of Las Americas, lno. d'bJa Las Americas, Ino, for the Premises located at 178 Concorct Street in St. Paul dAH Docket Na. 1-2'f 11-12950-3 Dear Counsel: This will confirm that the hearing in the above mattar wil{ begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July �, 20�0 at the same l�cation because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the morning. Since � GEOf2G� A. BECK Administrative Law Judge . JUN.=29'00(THU) 11�27 OFFICE OF ADMIN.HEARING TEL:6123492665 P. 001 j'j0 -�cG TRANSACTIOti REPORT Transmtszion Transaction(s} comPleted N0. TX DATEfTIME DESTINATION 343 JUN.29 13�26 b12 288 Q546 DURATION PGS. 0° 00' 25' 001 RESliLT MODE OK N ECM STATE OF MINNESdTA QFFIGE OF ADMINIST$ATT'V� T�EARINGS 1on Washington 5quare, Suite i7oo 10o Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnasata 55G01-2f38 June 29, 20dQ BY Fax and U.S. Mail Virginia D. Palmer Assistant Ciiy Attorney 15 West Kellogg Bivd., St. Paul, MN 55101 Jordan S. Kushner, �sq. 529 S. 7 St,, ;�636 Suif� 400 Minneapalis, MN 55415 R�: fn the Matter af the Currency Exchange License Application of �as Americas, lnc, dJbla Las Ameriaas, Ina, for the Premises located at 178 Goncard Street in St. Paul OAH Docket Na. 1-2911-12950-3 pear Counsel: This will confirm that the hearing in the above matter will begin at 1:30 p.tn, on Wednesday, July 5, 20Q0 at the same lacation because Mr. Kushner has a conflict in the marning. Since , � GEORGE A. �ECK Administrative Law Judge