Minutes - 2006/01/09 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council January 9, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 21 . Mayor Marty stated he recalls this topic being discussed before, that the lien would stay with the property so the City will get the money. Director Ericson stated that is true and the only risk would be if the property went tax forfeit. In that case, there is still a good likelihood the City will receive its costs and lien. Mayor Marty noted the chronological timeline and issue with the grass being 8 to 10 inches. He noted that they were told to mow the grass and if not the City would mow it and they would be assessed. He asked if the City did mow the grass. Director Ericson stated he thinks that the City did cut part of the grass and invoiced the responsible parties. Finance Director Beer explained that the time the City would be at risk for bankruptcy proceedings is the time between when the invoice is submitted and the property is certified for collection. Mayor Marty stated Mr. Bteibet is in an awkward position because he does not own or lease the property but he does have the licenses. On the other hand, there are staff reports and copies of letters to which Mr. Bteibet did not respond. In addition, Fire Code violations were sent and Mr. Bteibet did not make any effort or attempt to work with the City or communicate with staff. Mayor Marty stated it is a two-way street and the City has been sending notices for quite some time. He asked if there is a way to consider a reduction in the fine. • Director Ericson explained that the City does not determine the fine, that is the decision of the judge. The judge may also determine if the fine should be stayed if correction is made. Councilmember Flaherty pointed out that the violations go back to November of 2004 and last month was Mr. Bteibet's first appearance before the Council. He stated that he feels for Mr. Bteibet's situation but the owners of the property are calling the "shots" and doing nothing to address the concerns of the City. Mayor Marty noted if Mr. Bteibet had taken any action prior to coming to the Council meeting a month ago, it would have been better for his case. Mayor Marty stated his support to direct staff to proceed. The Council concurred with staff's recommendation. 2. Discuss Sale of Premium Stop Property, 2390 County Road 10 Community Development Director Ericson noted his report that this property is for sale and the owners are quite motivated. The agent quoted a price of about $12 per square foot and now the price has been reduced to $675,000 for the property. Director Ericson stated if the property is sold, staff believes that it will be reutilized as a gas • station and the agent confirmed the calls are from people interested in reutilizing it as a gas station. The benefit of the City acquiring would be to eliminate blight on the immediate area and