04-10-2013 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL APRIL 10, 2013 Steve Brausen stated that by vacating the easement the City will be giving that property to Gordie Howe. Ile then clarified that it is the County that will determine where the property goes. Steve Brausen stated that he opposed the easement being vacated. He indicated that the easement was entrusted to the City, and felt the Council was not being properly advised by the people that are paid to do so. Steve Brausen indicated that by vacating the easement the resulting development will result in fewer new homes than under the plans presented by his family. Steve Brausen noted that the LMC documents state that a vacation must occur for the greater good of the City. Brausen stated that by vacating the road easement, the City eliminates the ability to develop at least four houses. Pam Brausen stated that she feels the Pinetree Ponds plan has been in the works for a very long time and not just since property owners in the area received notification this past January. Brausen noted that during the process the City discussed the purchase of the Brausen property as well as options to purchase for the Acosta and Boog properties. Brausen asked that if it is not a big deal to vacate this easement, why the City even bothered to consider the purchase. Brausen then reported a phone call that Dave Brausen received from Gordie Howe wherein Howe expressed interest in purchasing the Brausen property. Brausen indicated that Howe was on speakerphone and she heard the conversation. Brausen commented that Howe now denies that conversation. Pam Brausen felt that the City needed to think outside the box on the development of this area. She pointed out the many plans that David Brausen drafted which utilize the land in the best interests of everyone in the City. Brausen pointed out that the Council represents the citizens of the City and their interests. She challenged the Council to think outside the box, and stated that their decision will be on the conscience. Brausen felt that vacating the 33 -foot easement was the wrong decision. There was no one else present from the general public wishing to speak on this matter. Upon motion by McGraw, seconded by Keis, the public hearing was closed. Blesener noted the findings of fact in the Council materials that would support vacation of the road easement. Blesener stated that he felt it was time for the Council to take action on the vacation matter. The Administrator noted that it will take four votes in favor in order to vacate the easement. 11