11-24-06 Council Special Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL OCTOBER 24, 2006 Assessment payment methods were reviewed, noting Char property owners can pay Cheir assessment in full or in part aC the City within 30 days of adoption with no interest being added. After the 30 day time period, remaining assessment balances are certified to Ramsey County for collection with property Caxes. Assessment balances will be spread for collection over a fen year period at an interest race of 6.5%. It was noted that should a property owner wish Co pay off an assessment balance evly, Chat payment should be made to Ramsey County prior to November I5°i in the given ye~u•. On November 15`x', the County adds the next year's interest balance Co the ti sessment payout. The Engineer noted that property owners on a fixed income, either senior citizens or permanently disabled, can apply for assessment deferrals. If assessments are deferred, interest will continue to accrue on the deferred amounC. The Engineer noted that assessments and/or interesC on the assessment are not tax deductib]e. However, a property owner could possibly take ouC a home equity loan to pay the assessment, with interest then being tax deductible. However, individual property owners should verify this with their tax advisor. The Engineer then reviewed the proposed assessment roll, as well as a sample amorCization schedule should an assessment be certified to Ramsey County for collection. Allan noted that the storm sewer grate in the curb line in front of 2570 Ruth Street is crooked. The City Engineer indicated thaC he would check this and have it corrected. Marge Schultz Roberson, 2603 Ruth Street, asked when the street would be finished. The City Engineer indicated Chat Che final lift of bituminous would be placed on the street next year. This gives the improvement an opportunity to settle over the winter. If settling occurs, repairs can be made and then the final lift placed on the street with no patching. Roberson noted thaC the no parking signage that had been along Ruth Street was re-installed improperly. The City Engineer believed that the signage had been reversed, and indicated that he would have this corrected. Elora Mach, 2620 Ruth Street, felt that the final lift should be put on Che street sooner rather than later so that run-off can be directed into Che storm sewer. Mach was concerned that without the final lifC, run-off would pond at the intersection causing problems. The City Engineer indicated that the City requires the final lift be installed in the year following the improvement in order to allow the street to go through one freeze/thaw 3