2008.10.06 CC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Hugo City Council Minutes October 6, 2008 Page 8 of 9 Miron made motion, Petryk seconded, to direct staff to include this as a discussion item at the next I-35 W/E Coalition meeting. All Ayes. Motion carried. Discussion on State Statute Regarding Green Acres City of Hugo has been informed by Washington County Officials that new state legislation was passed by the Minnesota State Legislature in 2008 regarding the Green Acres classification of land which dramatically affects residents in Hugo. Specifically, Kevin Corbid, Director of Property Taxes and Tax Payer Assessment has notified City staff that the County is informing and educating residents regarding their Green Acres property classification which would have an effect on the amount of property taxes paid by the residents. City Assessor Frank Langer attended the Council meeting in order to provide information and answer questions Council may have on this issue. Mayor Miron explained this legislation was included in a ominous tax bill, and many people are unhappy with these changes. There are hopes it will be addressed in upcoming legislation since the bill is very broad based and it impacts many conservation programs. Discussion on the New Hugo Feeder Distribution Line Installation by Xcel Energy City staff has been informed by Xcel Energy that it wishes to construct a new feeder distribution line in its right-of-way easement in the property extending southwest from the Waters Edge neighborhood through Victor Gardens into Anoka County. On Tuesday, September 30, 2008, City staff met with representatives from Xcel Energy to learn and better understand the construction of the new distribution line which is scheduled to begin later on this month. Public Works Director Scott Anderson explained the 45 -foot high poles would be above grade and carry three transmission lines. City Attorney Dave Snyder said the City needed to review the franchise agreement and City ordinances, and consider what other options were available. Miron made motion, Granger seconded, to review options and present them to the Council at the next meeting. All Ayes. Motion carried. Team USA World Sporting Clays Champions Council Member Haas announced he recently returned from the Country of Cyprus where he watched the World Championship Sporting Clay Competition. His son Mike and three other shooters from the United States competed as Team USA and won the gold medal in the Sporting Clay Completion. The Council congratulated Team USA on this accomplishment. Update on Transportation Forum Scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2008 City Administrator Mike Ericson informed the Council a Forum will be held at Hugo City Hall on Thursday, October 16, 2008 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This forum will provide residents an opportunity to hear from transportation providers and voice concerns and opinion about transportation needs. The public, including the Hugo Seniors, are encouraged to attend.