09-17-91 CCM - Laserfiche WebLink

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LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL MINUTES SEPTEMBER 17, 1991 4 Proposed assessments to each abutting parcel for street construction was presented. Prew indicated it was proposed to pay for drainage improvements through a storm sewer taxing district where all property which is within the drainage area would help pay for the storm sewer improvement through a tax increase. The approximate drainage area is bounded by Schiltgens field on the east, T.H.5 on the north, the railroad tracks on the south, and Schiltgens fields on the west. Bill Wacker, 3603 Laverne Avenue N., asked if the 30" storm sewer pipe would be sufficient to handle any further development north of Highway 5? Why is there parallel parking planned for the east side of the street when activities are on the west side of Laverne Avenue. Mayor Johnson expressed concern that the land upstream from the proposed drainage area would be included in the drainage project because of future potential development. Councilman Johnson pointed out that the city ordinance does require ponding that prevent surface water runoff caused by development and that lands upstream should not be included in the project. Mike Kulla, Attorney representing Peter Schiltgen, stated it was not Mr. Schiltgen's intention to be obstructive rather he wants to work with the City as well as the City work with him so the City's objectives can be obtained as well as his right to maintain the entire piece of his farmland. As a result, Mr. Schiltgen is opposed to granting any sort of a permanent easement across his property. This does not mean he is unwilling to allow this project to take place. An option proposed would be a series of short term leases where there is not a permanent grant of an easement, but rather the City maintains the right to have this water flow in a natural Swale of the property as well as the City maintaining the right to come in and dredge or maintain this existing drainage way. However, Mr. Schiltgen will want the right to continue to farm this property which may mean widening the easement with a gradual slope so his farm equipment can go through. He would like either the right to continue driving thru this easement and be able to farm his corner or, if possible, continue farming this drainage easement. Councilman, Williams suggested the possibility of having one or more at grade places where we would actually change from a ditch to a culvert, sort of like a driveway, so he can get his equipment across the area. Kulla answered this option was not discussed.