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were built. He asked how this failure in planning occurred since it was no longer possible to <br />extend the roadway to connect the northerly and southerly neighborhoods. <br />Public Works Director Olson clarified it was not a failure in planning but expected to be a future <br />through street. However, during plat approval a number of concerns were expressed by <br />neighbors to the south so the Council made a conscience decision to not extend this roadway to <br />connect the neighborhoods. <br />Councilmember Elvig acknowledged that the City usually tries to make neighborhood <br />connections. <br />Councilmember Backous noted that constructing turn- arounds give people the expectation it is to <br />be permanent but when there is not a cul -de -sac, people are aware that something will be <br />happening in the future to extend the roadway. He asked how the City' s trail ended up on <br />private property. <br />Public Works Director Olson explained there should have been a survey when the trail was <br />designed and constructed. He thought this trail was put in as part of the development to the <br />north. <br />Mr. McDevitt stated the trail was installed about 15 years ago. <br />Chairperson McGlone indicated he had no issue with the proposal as long as Mr. McDevitt gives <br />the City the trail easement and staff draws the easement lines so it works <br />Motion by Chairperson McGlone, seconded by Councilmember Backous, to recommend that the <br />City Council undertake a formal right -of -way vacation process. <br />Further discussion: City Engineer Himmer advised this vacation requires a public hearing <br />process and asked whether it will be City or property owner initiated. Councilmember Elvig <br />indicated he would not support action that results in more costs to extend sewer and water. <br />Public Works Director Olson recommended the City preserve an easement in case sewer and <br />water utilities eventually connect. Councilmember Elvig supported this suggestion, noting they <br />will connect eventually. Mr. McDevitt stated his impression that utilities would come from the <br />Dysprosium side. Public Works Director Olson explained that watermain loops are common. <br />Councilmember Elvig stated he wanted to assure the City preserves what may be needed in the <br />future. Public Works Director Olson explained the City could retain what may be needed in the <br />future to assure the right of the City to extend utilities and the area vacated would give Mr. <br />McDevitt the flexibility needed. He clarified this action would not adjust the property lines. <br />Councilmember Elvig asked when this road will be reconstructed. Public Works Director Olson <br />indicated staff would have to look at the street inventory. Councilmember Elvig noted if the <br />road is reconstruction, utilities would likely be put in the roadway. But, if the road is not <br />constructed for some time, the utilities would probably be located alongside the road. Mr. <br />McDevitt stated the road was reconstructed about 10 years ago and sealcoated more recently. <br />Chairperson McGlone asked if the cul -de -sac could be pushed to the north. City Engineer <br />Himmer explained that the farther north the road is pushed, the greater the wetland impacts. <br />Public Works Committee / October 18, 2011 <br />Page 3 of 12 <br />