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values were also highly placed and part of the value statement. She felt finding that balance has <br /> been a challenge and it would be good to get some assistance. <br /> The Council's consensus was to request more information on collaboration with the U of M Law <br /> School Land Use Clinic and direct staff to further define the scope of the project for Council <br /> consideration. • <br /> 1) Update on Long Term Road Maintenance Initiative <br /> City Administrator Ulrich reviewed the staff report and provided an update on a snag with the <br /> proposed franchise fee. He explained that in order to do a franchise fee, the City needs approval <br /> from the utilities so staff met with Connexus about approval of a franchise fee. At the meeting, <br /> Connexus said fine but they have to notify their customers that the franchise fee is for the City <br /> and not Connexus. City Administrator Ulrich provided the Council with a copy of the customer <br /> notice Connexus proposed to send, noting it would result in pushback from residents, customers, <br /> and the Chamber of Commerce. He asked Council if they planned to respond to such a postcard <br /> or preferred to adjust the funding amounts so a franchise fee may survive. <br /> Councilmember Elvig asked if it is pushback from customers or from the utility company. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich stated it is clear that Connexus thinks any increase to the utility bill <br /> reflects poorly on them so they want to distance themselves from it. <br /> Councilmember McGlone referenced comments made by Mr. LeTourneau when the option of <br /> franchise fees was presented at the EDA. It was noted that concern was expressed by business <br /> owners and residents that the City was going to do a franchise fee; however, after speaking with <br /> staff and being given all of the information, all understood and were in agreement once they <br /> understood the issue. He urged the Council to not let the Connexus notice scare them and stated <br /> he felt the Council was on the right track. <br /> Public Works Director Olson stated it is important to get out the word that the Council has not <br /> yet made a decision and is still in the public engagement and input gathering process. He noted <br /> staff conducted a randomly selected survey and has created a communication plan to hold <br /> meetings in neighborhoods, provide fact sheets, and let residents comment and make suggestions <br /> on the issues facing the City. He suggested informing the public about what is before the <br /> Council and the many options in how to accomplish the City's goals. Public Works Director <br /> Olson stated staff has developed a website, not yet launched, with an online questionnaire and <br /> links to the fact sheets, schedule for public input opportunities, and reconstruction program <br /> implementation. He requested Council direction on the communication plan and website. <br /> Mayor Ramsey noted a comment on the web page indicates the projects will be constructed by <br /> the fall of 2012 and asked how that can be accomplished without implementing a franchise fee. <br /> Public Works Director Olson explained there is a candidate project, Garnet Street, that staff feels <br /> would be an excellent show of how it would benefit the community. This information will be <br /> presented to the Council at its next meeting along with an alternate funding source. If approved, <br /> City Council Work Session / October 18, 2011 <br /> Page 6 of 11 <br />