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MINUTIJS <br />CITY COUNCIL <br />MARCH 25, 2009 <br />Blesener noted that the City stopped maintaining Eli Road not in an effort <br />to save money, but because maintenance dollars spent on the street would <br />be a waste of money. <br />Thorne noted the wear and tear on Eli Road from school bus traffic as well <br />as the huge equipment that is hauled in for Canadian Days. Thorne noted <br />that the Eli Road residents are being assessed, and the rest of the taxpayers <br />only pay a miniscule amount in comparison. <br />Keis noted that the project could be delayed for a year or two, but noted <br />that it will have to be done. Thorne agreed, but indicated that curb and <br />gutter is not needed. Keis pointed out the City's policy of reconstructing <br />streets to an urban standard. <br />Thorne asked if there were any stimulus dollars that could be used on this <br />project. The City Administrator replied that stimulus dollars will be <br />absorbed by MN DOT for major projects. There are no stimulus dollars <br />available for local street projects. <br />Thorne indicated that he cannot afford the assessment for this <br />improvement, and does not believe the improvement will add value to his <br />property. <br />Jim Cossack, 401 E,li Road, stated that he is in favor of the project as is his <br />neighbor at 403 Eli Road. Cossack disputed the comment that most of the <br />twelve property owners on Eli Road were retired or unemployed. Cossack <br />presented a picture of the road in front of his house showing the poor <br />condition. Cossack again stated that he was in support of the project and <br />noted that his only complaint is that utilities will not be buried as part of <br />this project. <br />Joann Christenson, 335 Eli Road, stated that there is no standing water on <br />Eli Road. The picture that Cossack showed was after a rain. <br />Lou Ann Pelton, 433 Eli Road, asked that the project be delayed for two to <br />three years. She indicated that her parents cannot afford this project, and <br />will likely not be in their home within a few years. <br />The City Administrator explained the deferment option available noting, <br />however, that interest accrues on deferred assessments. <br />Christenson stated that she opposed the project. Christenson stated that <br />she knows a road improvement is needed, but noted that property owners <br />cannot afford the assessment. Christenson felt the street was unique given <br />the school and park which generate an exceptional amount of traffic. <br />Christenson felt that this traffic caused the deterioration of the street. Keis <br />