03-18-09 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MARCH 18, 2009 A property owner asked about modifications to the HIA project, decreasing the amount of work proposed. The City Administrator pointed out that the Canabury Square property owners direct this project, not the City. Modifications to the work plan would be an ownership decision. The Administrator noted that the HIA Statute appears to intend that this financing mechanism is one of last resort, and not intended for repeat projects. However, it is likely the City Council's call on whether or not it would consider providing the HIA mechanism for repeat projects. McGraw indicated that he owns a condominium and can understand what the Canabury Square property owners are proposing and the pressures that come into play. McGraw suggested that his preference in utilizing the HIA process would be for an association to propose a project that covers all its needs, and not come back with additional projects. He noted that this is a financing of last resort, and further pointed out that there is the possibility that the HIA Statute will sunset and the mechanism will no longer be available. HIA allows people without financing abilities an avenue to finance improvements, and allows associations to get needed repairs/improvements done. One property owner asked if a larger project were proposed, if another financing plan would have to be submitted. McGraw replied that that is correct. Montour noted that the City is merely serving as a facilitator for the HIA financing mechanism. The project is the responsibility of the Canabury Square Homeowners Association. McGraw stated that it is not the Council's job to judge the project; the project is the responsibility of the association. The City's job is to allow the use of the HIA financing mechanism. McGraw noted, however, that the project upgrades property in the City thus improving the City's image. In response to additional questions, the City Administrator again explained that if the fee resolution is adopted by the Council, property owners have 30 days from this evening to pay their fee in full or part (minimum 25%) to the City without interest. After that time, unpaid balances will be certified to Ramsey County for collection with property taxes beginning in 2010. He also noted that the 45 day veto period will begin this evening, and if the fees are vetoed, any payments received by the City will be refunded to property owners. Don Valento, Canabury Square, appeared before the Council to discuss the Canabury Square project. He began by introducing a Canabury Pond property owner who provided a brief summary of building problems that were found at Canabury Pond and the resulting improvements. This property owner noted that both complexes were constructed by the same builder; therefore, it appears that Canabury Square has similar problems.