Minutes - Council - 04/22/2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Civil Engineer II Linton stated that, at the time, it was thought that there would be 2 more buildings on the site, but by the time the building was constructed, the R TC, LLC was not performing up to their obligations, so the building owners completed the sidewalk on their own, with the understanding that it was to be a temporary solution. Councilmember Dehen expressed concern with constructing the sidewalks now when they will be destroyed when other buildings are built, Civil Engineer II Linton stated that staff has anticipated this and has taken measures in the design to address this issue. He stated that the plan is to leave a strip for future construction to fill in, but noted that this will be a permanent solution and will not have to be pulled out as projects come in. He stated that this provides a finished look to Sunwood Drive . and gives pedestrians a safe way to walk in the area. Mayor Gamec stated that if someone damages the sidewalks, they will be liable, so he feels they will be very careful during construction. Councilmember Dehen stated that he has heard comments from residents wondering why the parking ramp has such bright lights on when nobody is using it. He stated that he sees this as adding more things to our tab before the City is ready to use it. Councilmember Look stated that he understands that the pricing right now is good and that this could be the best time to move forward with this. He stated that this issue was brought up to a professional and he was asked what he would do if he had $3 million sitting in their pocket and he recommended that the City hang onto the money because there is uncertainty on how the project will change. He stated that he is on the fence regarding this issue, and realizes that this may be the best price the City can get and the money is available through the R TC letter of credit. He stated that he would like to know what kind of interest this money is earning and where that interest can be used. City Administrator Ulrich stated that he asked this of the attorney for the development and was told that the interest from the fund belongs to the letter of credit. He stated that the letter of credit money can be used for grading and storm water management as well as streetscape. Councilmember Strommen stated that she appreciated Councilmember Look's concern, but the City is trying to spur some additional development and she thinks this will add polish and demonstrate to the community that the City remains committed to the RTC project. Motion by Councilmember Strommen, seconded by Mayor Gamec, to award the bid for IP 08-24 Sunwood Drive Streetscape Improvements, to Standard Sidewalk, Inc., as presented by Civil Engineer II Linton. Motion failed. V oting Yes: Mayor Gamec, Councilmembers Strommen and Jeffrey. Voting No: Councilmembers Dehen and Look. Absent: Councilmembers Elvig and Olson. City Council I April 22, 2008 Page 9 of 18