10-02-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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COLUMBUS, MN (08.16.17) – The City of Columbus is currently processing an application from Bituminous Roadways, Inc. to build an asphalt plant in the southeast section of Columbus. Considerations for the location of an asphalt plant within the City began in 2016, and since then the City has held a Public Hearing, hosted a joint workshop between the City Council and the Planning Commission, and received numerous letters and emails on the topic. All materials received have been included in the file for City Council review. Columbus’ City Council is required by law to follow due process; giving every resident or landowner equal opportunity to submit applications to sell their land for a certain use. Part of due process is considering the context of each application separately; gathering facts from reputable sources, listening to the opinions of constituents, and analyzing whether the application is consistent with the City’s long term planning goals. It is the City’s understanding that Columbus’ Running Aces Casino and Racetrack is opposed to this project. Columbus has enjoyed a great working relationship with Running Aces, and has respectfully considered their position in the matter. Consideration of the Bituminous Roadways, Inc. applications is not intended to jeopardize Running Aces or any of its future expansion for economic growth, it is a due process responsibility that the City has. The City is saddened to hear that Running Aces has halted its $9 million hotel plan as the City has supported the project since discussion began in March of 2016. The Columbus City Council has not taken any final action on the applications from Bituminous Roadways, Inc. Any decision to approve or deny their applications will be made at a future City Council meeting. About Columbus: The City of Columbus includes a mix of residential, rural and commercial property. Columbus boasts large tracts of public land, including Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area and Lamprey Pass. We provide a full level of municipal services in the community, including street and park maintenance, planning and zoning, elections, licensing, auditing, building inspection, prosecution, and general administration.