Minutes - 2005/08/22 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council August 22, 2005 Regular Meeting Page 28 • F. Policy for Removal of Nonconforming Street Accesses -Messiah Lutheran Church Case Public Works Director Lee reviewed that at the June 6, 2005, Council Work Session, staff presented a request submitted by the Messiah Lutheran Church to have the City remove the head- in parking lot located along the west side of Knollwood Drive, just south of County Road H2. As part of the report, staff recommended that should the Council wish to proceed with this request, a policy be created to allow for the City to remove nonconforming street access before performing any work at Messiah Lutheran Church. On June 13, 2005, the Council approved Resolution 6556, which authorized the prohibition of parking on Knollwood Drive. However this has not resolved the problem so another letter was submitted by the Messiah Lutheran Church requesting that the City post "No Parking" signs along both sides of Knollwood Drive from County Road H2, south 360 feet to the south end of their property. Those signs have since been installed. Councilmember Flaherty suggested this decision be delayed until after the street improvement project has been determined and approved. Public Works Director Lee advised that the church has indicated that cars are still parking head- in and backing onto Knollwood Drive. He stated from a legal standpoint, is it in the City's best interest to remove this non-conforming parking area that is within the City's right-of--way. • Councilmember Thomas noted that there is a significant safety concern and asked about the investment of the City's time and money. Public Works Director Lee estimated $1,600 to $1,800. He advised there are limited sight distances and a crosswalk is located near by. Mayor Marty stated that he understands there is a safety issue involved but the street improvement may not occur for several years. He stated maybe the City should take out the asphalt and put in black dirt and seed instead of sodding since the street may be redone. Councilmember Thomas asked if the church is only asking to have the asphalt removed. Public Works Director Lee stated that is correct and noted the policy, as prepared, would indicate it would also be sodded. However, that can be taken out. He stated if approved, the $1,600 would be funded by the Street Improvement Fund. Mayor Marty stated the franchise fee this year has resulted in at least that much money. MOTION/SECOND. Thomas/Stigney. To direct staff to remove the asphalt area and .let the church take it from there and to table consideration of the draft a policy until the street reconstruction issue is again discussed. • Councilmember Flaherty noted that it is illegal for cars to park in this location. Public Works Director Lee clarif ed that the "No Parking" signs are in the parallel area and the area of concern