09-25-2002 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SEPTEMBER 25, 2002 to pipelines in the past, noted the recent reconstruction of Viking Drive east of Edgerton. The Administrator noted that appropriate standards would have to be in place for construction in the proximity of pipelines. Fahey also noted that the City Engineer can be asked to comment on the construction of the road near the pipeline and make the appropriate recommendations from a safety standpoint in addition to whatever standards that Williams may require. LaValle expressed concern that the 13-foot distance was not large enough. Fahey noted that Williams estimates the distances at between 18 and 31 feet, and given these distances and the 3-foot depth of the pipe, their position is that the pipeline is out of the area of additional stress that will result from the road construction. Fahey again pointed out the staff s recommendation that the road right-of- way be located outside of the pipeline easement to eliminate the potential that the road would have to be disturbed to access the pipeline. The City Administrator reviewed his recommendation for the 50-foot policy versus ordinance given the potential for the creation of non- conforming properties should an ordinance be adopted. The Administrator noted that a policy would provide the City with more flexibility, even through enforceability of a policy is a concern. Montour noted that even thought the City of Maplewood has adopted a setback ordinance, the language in that ordinance is not strong and provides for a lot of interpretation. Barbara Allen appeared before the Council and indicated that most of her questions were for Williams Pipeline, but they are not present this evening. Allen stated that it was not her intent to stop the development of the Palmen property, but rather to address how the property is developed. Allen noted that she is aware of three undisturbed ruptures in the pipeline, the last one occurring in 1981. Allen stated that her concerns are with the pipeline and ensuring that there is an adequate buffer to the pipeline. Allen did not feel the 50-foot policy was unreasonable, noting that it would result in the loss of only one lot. Fahey stated that his concern with the policy is its impact on other properties in the City and the message its adoption would send that the City has determined that it is unsafe to have a structure within 50 feet of the edge of a pipeline easement. Fahey noted that the information 11