Agenda - Council - 02/10/2009 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Engineer Jankowski stated that he had also invited people to e-mail and call if they couldn't be here tonight and he distributed those comments to the Committee. He stated that this project could not be done without the cooper~tion of Mallard Ponds Townhomes. He stated that he has heard concerns about people walking on narrow streets and perhaps the City could put speed humps on the streets, which can be done, even on private streets. Public Works Director Olson stated that staff was directed to contact Mallard Ponds and see if they would be interested because there really wouldn't be any reason for people to use the roadway because it is basically a loop from Dysprosium to Dysprosium. He stated that they met with them and their answer was a resounding no, which is completely within their rights. He stated that he has not seen a lot of support in e-mails or phone conversations to open the gate, He stated that he understands that there are many reasons why the residents wouldn't want the gate to be open. He stated that the City wanted to make sure that they talked to them and informed them of some options. He stated that he doesn't think it is a very viable alternative. Fire Chief Kapler stated that when this area was developed, it was not an ideal area because there was a busy road on the east and south and also a big wetland that borders Mallard Ponds on the east. He stated that multiple access is always better from a public safety standpoint. He stated that the gate was discussed at that time and then Bunker was improved and Barium Street access was closed, so now there really is only one access. He stated that he respects everybody's opinion, but his responsibility is public safety and from that standpoint only, opening the access would be better. He stated that they are out there all the time for accidents on 142nd. Darre! Chapman, 14095 Argon Street, stated that it could have been City streets, but the neighbor to the north wouldn't allow it. He stated that they pay full taxes on their houses but maintain and plow their own streets without any help from City, so, if a police car and fire truck has to crash through the gate, he thinks that would cover the money they have already paid in taxes to the City. Vice Chair Dehen stated that even though the City investigated opening the gate up, it isn't really on the table today. Public Works Olson stated that it is an option but there are a lot of concerns from people in the audience tonight. Public Works Committee I November 18,2008 Page 4 of8 -164-