01-08-2020 Council Special Minutes (Imp Hearing)

Home Browse Search

MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING JANUARY 8, 2020 reclamation. He stated that there are some drainage issues in this area, but the main problem is with the driving surface. He explained that the City's Comprehensive Plan indicates that a pedestrian connection is desired along Allen Avenue to connect existing sidewalks and parks. He stated that there is a six-foot wide sidewalk proposed for the south side because there are less driveways to cross. He explained that there would be a five- foot strip of grass between the curb and the sidewalk which keeps pedestrians further from traffic and there is better success growing grass in at least a five-foot strip. The City Engineer reviewed the general plan for the street and the proposal to remove the two medians on Allen Avenue. He stated that there have been accidents because of the median, along with difficulties for plows, and by removing the medians, the road can be narrowed to help with traffic calming. He noted that the Pitrina Park monuments can be placed in other locations next to the street if the residents want to keep them. The City Engineer explained the City's street improvement planning process. He explained that after the streets that need work are detennined, the process begins with neighborhood informational meetings and progresses on to the public hearing to consider ordering of the improvement, which is this evening's hearing. Once bids are received and awarded, construction starts, and typically after substantial completion of the project, an assessment hearing is held. 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 charged; otherwise they will be assessed to property taxes for a certain period of time The City Engineer explained that they will also inspect water main valves and repair or replace things as needed. He reported that there will be times that driveway access is restricted due to construction activities. However, emergency vehicle access, mail and garbage service will be maintained. Mail service is typically moved to a temporary box outside the project area if the Post Master requests. 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 City 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 City Engineer reported on project funding, noting that sanitary sewer, water main and storm sewer repair costs would not be assessed. Fifty 2