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WS – Item # 4 WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT Work Session Item No. 4 Date: May 5, 2014 To: City Council From: Michael Grochala Re: Street Reconstruction Plan Background In March the City Council took the initiative to forward two (2) proposed charter amendments to Charter Commission for review. The Charter Commission, as provided for under state statute, extended their review period to 150 days. Concurrent with the charter review process staff has begun development of a Street Reconstruction Plan. A draft plan was presented to the council in March. The plan was based on the pavement management ratings and consideration of average daily traffic on street segments. The draft plan proposes a 5 phase reconstruction project that addresses approximately 10 miles of city streets. The timeline for completing the plan phasing would be based on a financial analysis to determine the preferred bond structure. As noted in the plan some project areas may, after further evaluation, be identified as a candidate for reclamation. In such cases the plan would be adjusted to accommodate street segments. Staff is working with WSB and Springsted Inc., to refine the plan to meet the provisions of Minnesota Statutes 475 relating to street reconstruction and bituminous overlays. This would allow for the City to possibly proceed with a project in 2015 in the event that a charter amendment is not approved. However, as previously discussed, the plan is 1) subject to a reverse referendum and 2) would need to be funded without special assessments. Under State law street reconstruction bonds can be issued without election provided the following requirements are met: a) The City must prepare a 5 year street reconstruction plan b) The City must hold a public hearing c) The City Council must approve the plan by unanimous vote. d) A 30 day period must elapse during which time a petition may be submitted requesting an election. The petition must be signed by voters equal to 5% of the votes cast in the last municipal general election. e) If no petition is received the city may issue bonds without election. To provide for the reverse petition process and allow for preparation of a ballot question for submittal to Anoka County the City would need to hold the required public hearing at