Agenda - Council - 10/14/2008 - Special

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CASE # I DISCUSSION ON ACQUISITION OF REAL ESTATE AT 16600 ST. FRANCIS BOULEVARD, 16601 AND 16651 QICKSILVER STREET NW, RELATED TO IMPROVEMENT PROJECT #08-21, CONSTRUCTION OF WATER TOWER #3 By: Tim Himmer, Assistant City Engineer Background: City Council authorized the award of contract for engineering services, and the undertaking of a feasibility study for the construction of a water tower in Elmcrest Park on April 22, 2008. During the site investigation it was found that the soils in the proposed location of the tower were unsuitable for standard construction practices. The cost to construct the tower in the proposed location has increased by approximately $400,000 for the installation of piles to support the structure and carry the load to the underlying suitable soils. Staff worked with our geotechnical consultant on alternative locations in the area that may be more suitable to reduce the additional cost of pilings. Of the alternative locations explored only one came back with favorable results, 16600 St. Francis Boulevard. In addition to having better soils this site is also approximately 10' higher than the previously proposed location within the park, therefore further reducing the overall cost of the tower construction by approximately $100,000. This item was discussed at a Council Work Session on June 24, 2008, and staffwas directed to meet with the property owner to gather more information on the potential acquisition. The parcel is owned by Oakwood Land Development and it currently sits vacant, aside from some minor storage in the outbuilding. Staffhas met with John Peterson, the president of Oakwood, and he has outlined a proposal for the acquisition of 16600 St. Francis Boulevard, as well as additional land necessary for a permanent access to Elmcrest Park. Additional information is provided under separate cover for your review. Council Action: Based upon discussion Reviewed by: Public Works Director/Principal Engineer CC: 10/14/08 ~~