Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding a Proposed Move to a New Meeting Location
1. Why is a move being considered at all?
A move is being considered to address growth, accessibility, and long-term stability. Our current location has limitations related to size and functionality, which make it increasingly difficult to comfortably and reliably serve the fellowship.
The current building also has significant handicap accessibility challenges. Physical barriers limit safe and comfortable access for members and visitors with mobility needs, and the structure restricts the ability to make meaningful improvements.
The proposed move offers an opportunity to better accommodate current needs, improve accessibility, and create a more welcoming and functional space for all who seek recovery — while planning responsibly for the future.
2. Isn’t the new location significantly more expensive?
Yes, the new space has a higher overall cost. However, SMSC has committed to underwriting 90% of the total facility cost, which substantially limits the financial impact on AA groups and members.
3. How does the cost of the potential new space compare to what we pay now?
Currently, we pay approximately $2,000 per month for rent and utilities at our existing location. While this cost has been manageable, the space is limited in size and does not fully meet our current or future needs.
For the proposed new building, monthly costs are estimated to range from $5,000 to $14,000, depending on the size of the space selected. This reflects a significantly larger footprint designed to better support growing meetings, improve accessibility, and allow for a wider range of recovery services.
4. There is concern about moving from a 1,700 square-foot space to a 7,000 square-foot space.
The concern is understandable given the significant increase in size. However, the current 1,700 square-foot space no longer adequately supports our needs.
The larger space is being considered to accommodate growing meetings, ensure ADA compliance, and allow the Alano to expand services such as Youth in Recovery, Al-Anon, virtual and hybrid meetings, and newcomer meetings.
The goal is not size for its own sake, but to responsibly meet current needs and support recovery now and into the future.
5. Who is SMSC?
SMSC is the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, a federally recognized Native American tribe located in Minnesota.
6. What is SMSC’s role in this move?
SMSC has agreed to underwrite 90% of the facility costs. Their support applies only to the physical space and helps ensure that meeting space remains accessible and affordable for AA groups.
7. Is SMSC affiliated with AA?
No. SMSC is not affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous and has no role in AA governance, meetings, finances, or decision making. Their involvement is strictly limited to financial support for the facility.
8. How does this align with AA Traditions?
This arrangement maintains clear boundaries:
- It does not constitute endorsement or affiliation (Tradition 6)
- It does not interfere with AA autonomy (Tradition 4)
- It does not replace AA’s commitment to self-support (Tradition 7)
9. What does “SMSC underwriting 90%” mean?
It means SMSC will cover 90% of the costs associated with the facility, such as rent and related expenses. AA groups are responsible only for the remaining 10% — like paying rent in any other meeting space.
10. Will group contributions or individual donations have to increase?
Currently, there is no plan to increase suggested contributions because of the move. Because most costs are underwritten, the financial expectations for groups remain stable.
11. What is an Alano, and how is it different from AA?
An Alano (or Alano Club) is a separate, non-AA entity that owns or leases a building and provides meeting space for recovery-related groups.
- AA is a fellowship and program of recovery
- An Alano is a facility provider and landlord
- AA meetings may rent or use space in an Alano while remaining fully autonomous and self-governed
12. What is the role of the Board?
This refers to the Alano Board, not an AA board. The Board is responsible for managing and maintaining the facility, overseeing facility finances and contracts, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the space. The Board does not govern AA meetings, influence recovery programs, or manage AA funds.
This structure aligns with AA Traditions:
- Tradition 4 (Autonomy): AA groups remain fully self-governing
- Tradition 6 (Non-Affiliation): Clear separation is maintained between AA, the Alano, and SMSC
- Tradition 7 (Self-Support): AA controls its own funds and pays only its agreed-upon share for space
13. How were potential locations identified and evaluated?
The Board conducted a thorough review of available properties in Scott County with assistance from the Prior Lake City Planner and other knowledgeable partners. Multiple sites were identified in Shakopee and Savage, including locations already under consideration. Property maps, specifications, and site details were reviewed carefully. The possibility of donated or no-cost property was explored, but no such opportunities were available.
14. Can AA groups decide not to move and go elsewhere?
Yes. Each AA group is fully autonomous and may decide, through its own group conscience, whether or not to move to the new location. Groups are free to continue meeting and secure another meeting space that better fits their needs.
Choosing not to move does not affect a group’s standing, voice, or participation within AA. The move is an option, not a requirement.
15. There is concern that moving could result in losing groups or members.
This concern is understandable and has been thoughtfully discussed. Change can be difficult, and it is possible that a move may feel disruptive for some members or groups.
At the same time, some members and groups have already been lost due to the current building’s condition and accessibility barriers. We have also gained new groups despite these challenges.
Our focus is on finding a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for all. While we recognize that some transition may occur, we are hopeful that improved accessibility and functionality will welcome new people in recovery, support new groups, and allow current groups to continue growing.
16. What about parking?
Lakers currently has access to approximately 40 designated parking spaces in the public parking lot. The potential new building includes approximately 150 parking spaces, which is expected to adequately support meeting attendance.
17. How will financial transparency be handled?
Financial transparency is a priority. Members will receive clear, regular information about facility costs, underwriting contributions, and AA’s portion of expenses. Information shared will include:
- Total facility costs
- Amount covered by SMSC (90%)
- AA’s share (10%)
- Any material changes to costs or agreements
18. What information will be shared?
- Total facility costs
- Amount covered by SMSC (90%)
- AA’s share (10%)
- Any material changes to costs or agreements
19. Who oversees the finances?
Designated trusted servants oversee AA funds, while the Board oversees facility finances. These responsibilities remain separate to preserve accountability and autonomy.
20. Will members be informed if circumstances change?
Yes. Any significant changes will be communicated promptly.
21. What happens if SMSC can no longer provide support?
Any agreement includes planning for contingencies. If circumstances change, the arrangement would be reviewed carefully before any financial responsibility shifts to AA groups.
22. Will meetings change as a result of the move?
No changes are planned to meeting format, content, or schedule. The intent is to maintain the same meetings in a space that better serves members.
23. How can members share concerns or ask questions?
Members are encouraged to raise questions through their group conscience, trusted servants, and by reaching out to a board member directly. Open communication is essential to this process.
24. What is the next step?
The Board will meet with the SMSC real estate team to discuss the terms of a leasing contract and the details of underwriting. There has not been a commitment made at this time.