Agenda - Council - 07/13/1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

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following issues for further review: 1) 39 wetlands would be crossed with 26.2 acres of potential wetland impacts; 2) 70 residences in the project area would be within 50 feet of the construction fight-of-way; 3) 112 drinking water supply wells would be within 150 feet of the construction right-of-way; 4) About 9.8 miles of prime farmland soil would be crossed by the project route; and 5) Alternative routes may be available to mitigate impact on sensitive areas. Ms. Sherman pointed out that FERC is asking for comments that focus on the potential environmental effects of the proposal and alternatives to the proposal that may lessen the environmental effects. She stated that in addition to the issues already identified, staff suggests including the following issues for further study: 1) A comparison of alternative routes, including number of residences impacted; 2) Vegetation disruption and restoration including erosion control measures proposed; 3) The ability to consolidate the existing pipeline and the proposed pipeline; and 4) Impacts of two routes versus one route through the community if an alternative is selected. Winslow Holasek, an area resident, stated that one of the concerns Ramsey previously mentioned was about the shut-off valves. Currently they are manual and someone has to drive from North Branch to shut them off. Ms. Sherman responded that staff did not view that as much an environmental issue as a safety issue. Councilmember Hendriksen asked that staff add shut-off valve to the four items. Motion by Councilmember Hendriksen and seconded by Councilmember Anderson to authorize staff to prepare a letter for signature by the Mayor to be submitted to FERC requesting inclusion of the listed items, plus the item about the shut-off valve and any other items identified in their environmental review. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Gamec, Councilmembers Hendfiksen, Anderson and Zimmerman. Voting No: None. Case #11: Consultant Selection for Redevelopment Study Community Development Director Sherman stated that in the 1999 adopted budget, the City Council authorized $25,000 for studies to further refine the comprehensive planning process. One area of study that the City has identified is a study regarding the redevelopment potential of underutilized industrial properties. Staff drafted a Request for Proposal that the Council approved on March 23, and it was sent to 10 consulting firms. The City received proposals from four of these firms. Based on interviews conducted by the Zoning Administrator, the Community Development Assistant and Ms. Sherman, and the proposal submitted, staff is recommending Hoisington, Koegler Group, Inc.. Motion by Councilmember Hendriksen and seconded by Mayor Gamec to hire Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc. to complete the study of redevelopment sites as outlined City Council/May 11, 1999 Page 14 of 19