01-26-2017 Special Meeting Minutes (Imp Hearing)

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING JANUARY 26, 2017 commences and typically after substantial completion of the project, an assessment hearing is held. The Engineer then explained the assessment hearing process. At that hearing, which is typically in October, property owners have the opportunity to voice opinions on the proposed assessments. The Council would act on any objections received and then approve the assessments. The assessment amounts can be paid within 30 days with no interest charges, otherwise they will be assessed to property taxes for a period of 10 years with an interest rate of approximately 4.5%, depending on the bond rates. Interest on certified assessments would accrue from the date they are approved. The assessments can be paid off at any time. The Engineer then reviewed the construction process in detail. The Engineer then reported that there will be times that driveway access is restricted due to construction activities. However, emergency vehicle access will be maintained at all times. Mail and garbage service will be maintained. Since this is a full reconstruction, the Post Office will likely install temporary boxes outside the project area. The Engineer reported that property owners will be kept informed of timing of construction activities that will restrict access. He also noted that there will be an on- site inspector available to address property owner concerns. He noted that the Code allows construction work hours from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays. The Engineer reviewed the anticipated project timeline. The Engineer reported on project funding, noting that sanitary sewer, water main and storm sewer repair costs would not be assessed. 50% of the street costs will be funded through special assessments to benefitting property owners. The Engineer then explained the special assessment process in detail, which is based on the City's Assessment Policy that has been in place since 1995. The Engineer noted that most residential properties will be assessed $7,147.11 for one unit, except for the railroad property which is assessed at the commercial property rate, which is twice the rate of residential. The City Engineer stated that this street will be widened slightly, and construction will take place within 10 to 15 feet of the existing edge of the road. He explained that this project should take two to three months from the removal of the bituminous to the first lift of pavement. This project will require rain gardens to meet requirements for stormwater runoff, and the City will work with willing property owners to design the garden as each owner wishes. He noted that if the rain garden is not draining properly, the City will be responsible for addressing those issues. He also 11