Minutes - 2006/04/10 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council April 10, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 23 Director Ericson stated that the existing six townhome owners do not want a swimming pool or tenms court, and in lieu of this, Mr. Harstad has offered to provide the cash equivalent of $58,000 to the Mounds View Park and Recreation Commission. Director Ericson indicated he spoke with Jim Thompson, League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust, who represented the City on the issue, and he clarified there would be no adverse issues if the City accepts the offer of financial consideration in lieu of the construction of the amenities. He stated that Mr. Thompson indicated the City is within its ability to grant a waiver of the construction of the pool and tennis court. Director Ericson suggested that a memorandum of understanding could be prepared if the Council chooses and that by drafting this memorandum, the City is not waiving its rights or responsibilities of the other conditions of the settlement. Councilmember Stigney asked who would maintain the pool and tennis courts if they were built. Director Ericson indicated the townhome owners would be responsible. Councilmember Stigney asked if the amount of $58,000 has been verified by Staff. Director Ericson indicated that estimates have not been sought, but Staff feels that this is an accurate representation of what it would cost to install a pool and tennis court. Councilmember Flaherty and Mayor Marty asked what this is based on. He stated this is based on the understanding what it would cost to make the improvements. He indicated the City may not be in a position to ask for anything else. MOTION/SECOND: THOMAS/GiJNN. To authorize Staff to draft a memorandum of understanding to accept payment from Red Oaks Estates #3 in the amount of $58,000 in lieu of constructing the pool and tennis courts, given the amount of $58,000 is able to be substantiated within $5,000. Counciimember Flaherty stated he is not suggesting negotiation, but would like to have the numbers substantiated and if they cannot be, then the issue should be readdressed. Director Ericson stated that Mr. Harstad has been asking about this issue for a couple of months, and he is prepared to move forward with construction of the pool and tennis courts. Director Ericson explained Mr. Harstad has offered to provide a cash donation to the City in lieu of the construction, and the issue can be delayed, but in the process of waiting, construction may begin on the pool and tennis courts. Councilmember Thomas stated she sees no reason the issue should be delayed if the number can be substantiated. Mayor Marty stated the six residents have expressed concerns that they do not want to have a pool or tennis courts built because of a potential increase in the assessment fee. Mayor Marty wondered if there is room on the site to build a pool and tennis courts. Director Ericson replied it would be on the northeast corner of County Road H2 and Long Lake Road.