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includes suggesting to dedicate a portion of the tax to the Potawatomi Zoo because this bill simply calls for research and there are of course a number of other wonderful attractions in our community. Councilmember Oliver Davis asked when it comes to making the final decision on implementing a tax how does that proceed. Councilmember Randy Kelly responded first the state needs to send its approval and then at least two of the three local legislative bodies in St. Joseph County (St. Joseph County Common Council, South Bend Common Council, City of Mishawaka Common Council) would also have to approve it. Councilmember Oliver Davis stated with past history relating to the St. Joseph County Council, sometimes South Bend gets left in the cold and all the blame and responsibility falls upon this Council and that is his issue with this bill. Councilmember Randy Kelly responded that he understands where Mr. Davis is coming from but he will vote on an issue with how it is set before him and not try to worry about what other people are doing. If he can justify why he is voting in favor than the rest will fall where it may but he does understand the concern. Those wishing to speak in favor of the resolution: Marcy Dean, Zoo Director with offices at 500 S. Greenlawn Ave. South Bend, spoke in favor of the bill. The Zoo has been spearheading this food and beverage tax initiative. If the Zoo would get a portion of this tax it would help fund a majority of their proposed master plan which would regionalize the zoo and bring more people into the area with an estimated increase of 200,000 more people in attendance. Many of the buildings at the zoo have been around for fifty (50) to eighty (80) years. Several zoos and aquariums across the country have dedicated tax funding and it greatly helps the ability of the zoos to put these capital investments into place. The zoo is only looking for a small percentage of the proposed one percent (I%) tax. This resolution would provide much needed support down at the general assembly especially along with the resolution of the County and hopefully one from Mishawaka's Council as well. Councilmember Jo M. Broden asked about the process if the state did accept the proposal what would happen next. Marcy Dean stated there is no set time table set for after the statehouse would approve the ability of a tax. That would essentially be the beginning of the research phase and the time to try to develop public support. Councilmember Jo M. Broden asked where the burden of responsibility would fall for the research stage of the process. Marcy Dean responded the Zoo would certainly take a lead in researching this with coordination from the Councils. 4