05-07-2002 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCI~I., MAY 7, 2002 the issues relative to this property. Pugaczewski asked if the Fire Chief has been asked to comment on the safety issues relative to the Williams Pipeline that what will happen if thaC pipeline ruptures. Fahey indicated that the City will have answers to aII the questions raised, and pointed out that the property owner understands that there are many issues that will need to be resolved. Fahey indicated that it is his Peeling that the developer should spend the money to get the answers to these questions. Pugacaewski indicated that some homes in the area have had to purchase flood insurance. He was concerned that additional development will raise water levels that will require more homeowners to purchase this insurance. Pugaczewski also expressed concern about a disaster occurring with the pipeline, and pointed out that if it ruptures, petroleum will flow downhill and into the drainage system. Pugaczewslstudies were necessary to determine the safety of the pipeline and the impact of a pipeline disaster. Fahey pointed out that he was not in favor of speeding $10,000 to $15,000 ou these studies. He did not feel it was incumbent for the City to tell the developer whether or not his property was developable. However, once a development proposal is made, staff will review it and require all needed information and studies. Pugaczewski asked about setbacks from the pipeline as well as crossing the pipeline with a road. Fahey indicated that the City requires a 50-foot road right-of--way width, as well as limits the length of cul-de-sacs to 500 feet In order to exceed the 500-foot length, a variance would be needed which requires that anon-economic hardship be present to wan ant granting of the variance. The City Administrator pointed out that the required setback from the pipeline is the edge of the pipeline easement 13e reviewed the results of a survey of selected cities relative to this issue as well The City Administrator indicated that Williams Pipeline could not restrict development adjacent to their easement without obtaining another easement. The Administrator also indicated that if the City made a decision to acquire the property at this point, the property owner would be adversely affected and the eminent domain process would likely be used to establish the property value. The Administrator felt that the more facts the City had, the easier it will be to establish a property value. Fahey agreed that the Cow~cil cannot make a decision in a vacuum, and will need more information before a property value can be determined. If the City 5