Minutes - Council - 08/09/2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

inspections and to adopt Resolution #11- 08 -139A defining the limits of authority for change orders on the project. Further discussion: Councilmember Tossey indicated there are 100 riders a day, and the existing parking ramp is more than adequate. He stated to take the money is irresponsible, and he would oppose the motion. Councilmember Elvig respectfully responded that part of the job of the Council is to look forward 5 to 10 years and plan for infrastructure. In the future, the land will cost double. Councilmember McGlone stated the zoning in The COR is for vertical parking. The zoning required the ramp parking to be used by all structures within the zone. The ramp is needed now and in the future. Other ramps will need to be built in the development and this is one of a total of five. Public Works Director Olson explained when the Town Center was envisioned, there were three parking ramps. Councilmember Backous suggested some of the funds be used for a pedestrian overpass. Mr. Olson stated this was mentioned before, and because the timing was not clear, this was not included in the cost staff bid out. He said the meeting with MiiDOT went well, and they are supportive of the City's endeavors. All indications at this point look positive for an overpass, but he said he could not say if it would be supported in the future The cost will be around $1 million. Councilmember Backous stated he agreed with Councilmember Tossey; he declared he would oppose the motion as well. Councilmember Elvig commented without accepting the grant, it is a guarantee that the overpass will not be built. The applications for the CMAQ funds are competitive. There are many areas fighting for this grant. This project was awarded at the top of the list, which means that this is worthwhile. He stated the City fought hard to win the competition and he felt it would be irresponsible to turn this back. Councilmember Wise noted the money would not go back to taxpayers if the City did refuse it. Mayor Ramsey concurred and noted it could be reallocated. He explained the City's intent is to build The COR, which the City owns, and it needs to be put back into private development. If the funds are refused, the City will have to come back to the taxpayer at some point and ask them to add on to the parking ramp. He said he felt it seemed foolish to turn the money away. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Ramsey, Councilmembers Elvig, McGlone, and Wise. Voting No: Councilmember Backous and Tossey. 8. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF INPUT City Administrator Ulrich noted the following events: Game Fair August 12 through 14 is the annual Game Fair at Armstrong Kennels. The City will have a tent at the event. Business Appreciation Day / Special Election Day The Business Appreciation Day is August 16 at the Links at Northfork. It is also the day of the special election for the seat vacated by Councilmember Jeffrey.