Minutes - 2006/03/27 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council March 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 19 Councilmember Stigney stated the City should look at the cost to build the sidewalk on the west side of the street since the cost is now up to $252,000. He stated that no one is going to walk through the park, so the sidewalk needs to go straight across on either side. Councilmember Stigney asked what the Park and Recreation Commission's suggestion was to pay for this. Mayor Marty and Director of Public Works Lee stated it would come out of TIF. Councilmember Stigney stated TIF is not an unlimited pool. Mayor Marty stated it is not an unlimited pool, but the City needs to make some expenditures. Councilmember Stigney stated the City should make some expenditures, but should concentrate on streets and construction rather than pathways. Councilmember Gunn stated that the City always knew it would be more because of the area. Director of Public Works Lee stated a lot of the cost is for the wetland issues and moving the ditch. He stated the same problems were encountered further to the south. Councilmember Thomas stated from a safety and practicality standpoint, the City cannot do anything but Option B. She stated the City cannot, provide good service by putting residents through a safety hazard situation. Mayor Marty stated that even if a park trail with security lighting is done, or a sidewalk along the park entrance driveway, they will all cost money. He stated the City needs to do the rational and safe thing. He recalled Councilmember Flaherty's comment during the last meeting that his wife would not follow the sidewalk into the park. Councilmember Thomas stated people would continue walking on the road, which would lead to even a bigger safety issue. Mayor Marty stated the City will be spending money on this section no matter what option is chosen, but Option B is the only logical and safe option. Councilmember Stigney asked what the total cost estimate of the west side versus the east side with Option B. Director of Public Works Lee stated the east side would be $521,000 and the west side would be $368,000. Councilmember Thomas wondered what option the cost of the west side was based on. Director of Public Works Lee stated it was basically for Option A1. Councilmember Stigney stated the cost is doubled by going on the east side of the street. He stressed that the cost for the sidewalk on the west side should be reviewed again. He asked if there is some reason that this matter has to be resolved tonight.