02-11-1997 Charter Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

JOINT CHARTER COMMISSION AND CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 11, 1997 Mr. Ahrens stated he would recommend the Phase 2 area be considered first because it does not deal with utility or MSA issues. Also, this is a fairly dense area without a park. Council Member Bergeson suggested the elimination of MSA roads and unsewered roads which Mr. Ahrens' recommendation of Phase 2 accomplishes. Commissioner Scharpen asked Council Member Neal for his opinion. Council Member Neal reviewed what happened with the past West Shadow Lake Drive project where some wanted it repaired but one property owner along West Shadow Lake Drive did not want the improvement and did not want to pay for it. He stated there are some residents who would be penalized, such as owners of corner lots. Council Member Neal stated if the Council and Charter members split up and routed a petition door-to- door, they would find out what residents want. Commissioner Solfest asked Council Member Neal if he wants to leave streets as they are. Council Member Neal stated if residents support the project then it can proceed. Commissioner Bening stated it is important to assure residents understand other phases will proceed when Phase 2 is presented. It is important to inform residents that Phases 1, 3, 4, and 5 cannot be ignored. Commissioner Trehus asked if feasibility reports are needed for each upcoming project. Mr. Ahrens said this is correct and required by State Statutes. Commissioner Trehus stated he does not like the idea of having to go to ballot for each project. Council Member Bergeson stated he still holds that opinion but it may be necessary to test this process and get to a long-term solution. Council Member Neal stated the outcome will depend somewhat on how the ballot is worded. Chair Montain agreed with the importance of educating the public prior to the vote. Chair Montain stated it appears of the five phases, Phase 2 is the least complicated and could be the first phase to be considered. He noted the schedule and pointed out that since 25% of the residents have not petitioned for the improvement, a 4/5 vote of the Council would be required. Mr. Ahrens stated this is correct. Chair Montain asked if a 4/5 consensus of the Council has been reached. Council Member Kuether asserted if it gets to a vote she believes there will be a 5/5 Council vote. Chair Montain stated if this is the case, would the schedule presented tonight be followed. Council Member Kuether noted the need for an adjustment due to the PAGE 7