05/22/2000 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL MINUTES APRIL 24, 2000 The City has determined that the road right -of -way is not needed for public purposes, however, the City will need to retain an easement for drainage and utility purposes over the vacated right -of -way. Staff advised they have received a letter from the Minnesota Correctional Facility Physical Plant Director indicating no objections to the roadway vacation provided the utility /drainage easement is maintained. Staff therefore, recommends approval of the requested vacation by adoption of the Ordinance as stipulated in the City Charter. Council Member Carlson inquired about the purpose of the road vacation. Staff advised the purpose is to attach the vacated roadway to adjoining properties. The roadway has no use in the City street system. The City Engineer added another purpose is to allow utilities in an easement on new site development. Council Member Carlson inquired about information regarding the adjoining property owners. Staff advised the vacation will affect H & L Mesabi. It was the understanding of the property owner that the street will be vacated. The City does have more development plans coming forward for this site. The property is located in the industrial park and will remain industrial. Council Member Carlson inquired about the benefit to the C ty by' vacating the roadway. Staff advised individual lots will initially benefit. The lots are ei gAindividually platted as development projects come in. Council Member Dahl inquired about tlyomf%t 1 yet olfhe Correctional Facility regarding this issue. Staff advised the Correctio F c x I i a t o objection to the vacations. The Correctional Facility did request the City ma ntain a ea ent. Council Member Dahl stated the Po' l "e Department may need the roadway in the future for safety reasons. Also, it would be an advantage to have a more direct route to 35W. If the roadway is needed in the future the City will have to buy it back, which can be expensive. Staff advised the Correctional Facility is in favor of the vacation because it will eliminate another access to the facility. The City Engineer added that Apollo Drive has been constructed to a higher standard than 74th Street. If 74th Street is developed, it will also have to be constructed to the higher standard. There is no possibility of connecting the roadway to the east. If the roadway is vacated, the acreage will be developable and can be assessed. Staff noted there is also a setback issue if the roadway is left as a City street. Council Member Dahl stated there are variances for setbacks if necessary. She stated she has not received enough information regarding this issue. 4