11-21-11 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL NOVEMBER 21, 2011 With regard to project costs to be borne by the City, Auge reported that the City would pay for sidewalks. The County will pay for the concrete boulevard area, but if the City wishes to have decorative concrete, the City would bear that cost. Right of way acquisition costs would be borne by the City, as would the cost of burying private utilities. The City would pay for street lighting beyond the lighting of the intersections. Montour suggested that street lighting, colored concrete boulevards, etc. be coordinated with Roseville. The City Administrator reported that Roseville is considering some planting beds within the median areas. The Administrator pointed out that sidewalks along Rice Street will be a challenge in some areas as there will be little room for snow storage. The discussion again focused on the Rice Street /County Road C area. Blesener expressed concern that limiting Gas N Go to right turns in and out only will damage his business. Keis asked if there were other rights -of -way issues of concern. The City Administrator noted that there are a few areas where acquisition, either permanent or temporary, will be necessary. However, acquisitions from the Gas N Go property are of the greatest concern. The impact to the functionality of the Gas N Go site was discussed at length as well as the County's position that the City would be responsible for costs associated with right -of -way acquisition. It was pointed out the significant impacts to other gas station properties in other County projects wherein the County bore these types of costs. The Administrator noted that Tom Vogt made it clear that Gas N Go is his business and his livelihood. Numerous options ranging from elimination of medians, shortening of medians, a complete rebuilding of the Gas N Go property both with and without the rebuilding of the Toms' Auto property were discussed. There was also discussion of the redevelopment of the entire corner, including the adjacent mini - storage. Montour asked why the Rice Street Phase 11 project ranked high on the County's priority list. Auge replied that the County has the funding in place for this project. Blesener felt the project made sense, noting that the Rice Street /County Road C intersection is the only significant problem. McGraw asked what the City's options were at this point. Auge suggested that he have the County's gas station consultant take a look at the site to determine if there is a workable layout. The Administrator indicated that it may be possible to move the gas tanks and change the layout of the site, but the medians still pose a concern. Auge reported that there is a State Statute that says medians are a non- compensable damage. Auge stated, however, that the City is better off in working with the property owner. The Administrator stated that both the 5