Laserfiche WebLink
Direction was given to staff to explain to any interested citizens this is not the City's <br /> responsibility to monitor, though the City will monitor to assure the issue does not become a <br /> nuisance. <br /> 2) Review Rail Station Funding and Schedule <br /> City Administrator Ulrich reviewed the report. He introduced Jim Lasher, Financial Consultant, <br /> who was present to review the item. <br /> Mr. Lasher referred to the memo in the Councilmembers' packet and reviewed the background <br /> of the funding, and the use of CMAQ funds. He noted the grant supports transportation by bus <br /> from Ramsey to downtown. When the transportation converted to rail, the content and validity <br /> of the rail grant was changed. The grant cannot be used for a skyway and this is the first time <br /> there is a conversion from bus to rail at an existing station. <br /> Councilmember Elvig noted there has been discussion to run the bus morning and night to <br /> supplement what the train was offering. <br /> Mr. Lasher explained the proposal to supplement the train schedule can be added to the current <br /> request. This would not jeopardize the CMAQ grant. <br /> Councilmember Elvig suggested since the CMAQ funds have been designated, the request for <br /> funds for the skyway should be omitted. <br /> Mayor Ramsey stated his approval for the rail stop is retracted without the skyway. <br /> Mr. Lasher explained the use of the grant becomes an issue in two years when the train starts and <br /> the bus stops. Having to consider the issue now mitigates some of the unknown in the future. <br /> Public Works Director Olson added the approval process is different according to the way the <br /> funds are used. <br /> Mr. Lasher stated some of the funds will be dispersed into the City's bank account as there are <br /> partial payment requests. If there are change orders, there are funds added to the account. In <br /> June 2012, MnDOT could take the money out and use it for something else. It is allocated to the <br /> City of Ramsey until the funds are taken out as needed by MnDOT. The last date to send in the <br /> skyway design is Tuesday, September 13. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich stated he would brief the MnDOT representative on the issue. <br /> Public Works Director Olson cautioned while it is good to discuss the issue with the MnDOT <br /> representative, he would have a limited relationship with this grant. <br /> Councilmember Wise questioned if there are other funding sources. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich reviewed the proposal and the funding sources. <br /> City Council Work Session / September 6, 2011 <br /> Page 2 of 3 <br />