Agenda - Council Work Session - 09/07/2010

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Coordinate with key representatives from Anoka County Regional Rail Authority, Metropolitan Council and other agencies as appropriate to ensure maximum support for a bonding request that includes the Ramsey rail station. Utilize existing relationships among state House and Senate leadership to support the bonding request. Support passage by producing appropriate information, developing testimony and responding to questions. FY 2012 APPROPRIATIONS BILL: Term: January 2010-June 2011 Cost: $18,000 • Obtain FY 2012 Appropriations request forms from Congressional offices; complete and submit funding request for construction of the commuter rail station. • Update existing project materials to reflect current status, cost estimates, schedules and project development processes for the rail station; utilize materials as part of discussions and for inclusion in funding packets. • Update Resolutions and Letters of Support as necessary; assist in obtaining signed documents from various sources including appropriate public agencies, local businesses and other supporters to include in funding packets. • Monitor submittal process to ensure congressional leaders and staff representatives in both the House and Senate receive and process funding requests; maintain contact with appropriate federal offices responsible for tracking and management of requests. • Work with other congressional offices to exchange information and encourage support; respond to questions and requests for additional information. • Arrange visits with congressional leaders and policy leaders/staff as directed, locally and in Washington D.C. • Maintain a monthly presence in Washington D.C. on behalf of the City to ensure a high level of project awareness and exposure. • Provide regular communication in the form of email updates and other correspondence to ensure all project partners are apprised of progress, needs and outcomes throughout the process. • Coordinate as directed and as appropriate with other local businesses and stakeholders. REAUTHORIZATION BILL: Term: In progress -March 2011 Cost: N/A (Covered under existing Consulting Services Agreement dated November 2009 with the City of Ramsey Economic Development Authority.) Remaining tasks include monitoring the status of the bill, maintaining communication with congressional leadership and staff in Washington D.C. and Minnesota, and maximizing exposure of the commuter rail station project and the opportunities new development brings to the success of the Northstar Commuter Rail service. These tasks also include continued communication among local and regional agencies in terms of a full funding strategy to construct the station. 2