11-28-2005 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View EDA November 28, 2005 Regular Meeting Page 4 City Administrator Ulrich explained that with the right-of-way purchase there is a grant provision that it must be made by the City, which staff thinks is ridiculous because the land is in Anoka County, Ramsey County, Blaine, Shoreview, and Mounds View. Staff’s concern is to not be put into a situation where Mounds View is actually purchasing right-of-way in other cities and counties. Staff is trying to resolve this issue but it may require action by the EDA. City Administrator Ulrich advised that staff and the City Attorney are working through the Governor’s office to resolve that issue but it is withholding the County from making the right-of- way purchases in a timely manner. City Attorney Riggs stated staff has been in discussions with DEED and the Governor’s office about how this can proceed. DEED has been in consultation with the Attorney General’s office that the City needs to be the acquiring agency. Staff is trying to work around that issue and there may be some options that would require modifications to the agreement. If not, staff will return for EDA consideration on this issue. He noted there is $5 million available and is a matter of how to best facilitate that for the five jurisdictions involved. President Marty suggested that DEED could funnel or transfer the money to the affected cities. He noted that when Mounds View sold the property, the City got the money and then transferred it to Mn/DOT. He stated he has talked with the Mayor and a Councilmember of Blaine and all along they have been in total support because of the improvements to County Road J and I-35W. President Marty stated his preference if the City could transfer the money to Blaine so they could acquire the property within Blaine. City Attorney Riggs explained there are three “pots” of money in play and dollars from DEED, some designated to the County, some to the City, and some to Mn/DOT for right-of-way purchase. He agreed that many agencies are involved and explained that typically the County would be the acquiring agency but two counties involved in this situation. City Attorney Riggs stated staff hopes to work it out so the dollars can be utilized immediately. President Marty stated in reading reports on the AUAR from Anoka County, they were also in support. City Attorney Riggs stated that is correct and the issue is finding the correct legal mechanism based on the language in the two statutes that were adopted during the last session. City Administrator Ulrich explained that may necessitate the EDA holding a special meeting so bids can be done by December 1st. However, it is not likely that will occur if significant modifications are needed. City Attorney Riggs advised that the County wanted to make offers to the property owners by the first of December and notices of condemnation may also be needed. However, if the City is the acquiring agency it would be difficult because the City has not done anything in that regard.