05/12/1997 Council Minutes (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

COUNCIL MINUTES MAY 12, 1997 Council Member Bergeson asked about the status of the assessment if the property owner does not connect. Mr. Ahrens explained the portion of the project outside of the MUSA and explained those properties cannot receive sanitary sewer improvement unless their system is failing. He reported he spoke with the Met Council staff about this and they indicated their understanding of the need to install utilities due to the road reconstruction. Since property owners can only connect if their septic system is failing, Mr. Ahrens stated he does not believe the cost for sanitary sewer can be assessed and suggested it be deferred (until connection is made). He noted that per City Charter, residents who do not want the project can petition against it. If that happens, it will be up to the Council to determine if the project should proceed. Council Member Lyden asked if the trail on the east side is included. Mr. Ahrens stated it is and reviewed resident's preference for an easterly location. He advised there is adequate right-of-way for this alignment. Council Member Kuether expressed concern with regard to the August 25th ordering of bids and noted the Council had discussed waiting until a November date, after the election. Mr. Ahrens stated this could be delayed. Council Member Kuether noted the ballot may result in changing the general policy for how street assessments are handled. Mr. Schumacher explained this is a State Aid roadway where State Aid pays for a majority of the cost. He clarified that with the Charter amendment, the question is about an assessment between the property owner and City (not State Aid). Therefore, the referendum will not have an impact on this particular project. Council Member Kuether indicated support to delay all street projects until after the election. Council Member Bergeson moved to adopt Resolution No. 97 - 63 as presented. Council Member Neal seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Resolution No. 97 - 63 can be found at the end of these minutes. Consideration of Resolution No. 97 - 64, Order Preparation of Report on Improvement, Lilac Street Utility Extension - Mr. Ahrens explained a property owner on Lilac Street is planning an addition onto their business that will require sanitary sewer and water to be extended to serve their property. He advised that to properly investigate the extension of utilities along Lilac Street from Fourth Avenue to Apollo Drive, it is necessary to order the preparation of a feasibility study to investigate estimated costs, assessments, and other issues related to a possible project. It was noted the properties on the south side of Lilac Street are located in the "Charter exemption" areas of the City while the properties on the north side of the street are Charter areas. Mr. Ahrens recommended the proposed resolution be adopted. Council Member Kuether asked how the feasibility report would be paid for if the project does not proceed and whether an engineer's estimate should be considered. PAGE 7