Agenda - Public Works Committee - 11/15/2011

Home

Councilmember Elvig stated his position that since the City encroached on the McDevitt' s property, he would support the City covering public hearing costs. He stated he appreciates the property owner' s cooperation and felt this is a good solution as long as it does not result in future problems. City Engineer Himmer stated that staff can process the vacation at the same time it designs the cul -de -sac and look at possible routes for utility extension. Chairperson McGlone agreed this needs to be fixed and since the property owner is willing to cooperate he would support the City initiating the process. Councilmember Backous concurred. Amendment motion by Chairperson McGlone, seconded by Councilmember Backous, to recommend that the City Council undertake a formal right -of -way vacation process and schedule a public hearing with the City initiating and paying the required fees /escrows. Amended motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson McGlone and Councilmembers Backous and Elvig. Voting No: None. Case #2: Consider Proposal from Metro Area Repeater Association to Install Skywarn Facilities on Water Tower #2 City Engineer Himmer reviewed the staff report and request of the Metro Area Repeater Association (MARA). Councilmember Backous stated it sounds like installing this equipment would result in no damage or piercing of the water tower. He asked how often they would need access to the equipment. Joel Jameson, Northwest Representative from MARA, explained they would initially need access to fine tune equipment settings but after that only if there is equipment failure. Councilmember Backous asked if this equipment will conflict or interfere with current or future equipment on the water tower. Public Works Director Olson stated this equipment would not damage the tower if installed correctly but the City would need to inspect the installation to assure there is no damage. He explained that cellular phone providers rent space on the water tower. Currently, Ramsey only has one provider on the water tower and estimated rent of $1,700 to $2,000 per month. Public Works Director Olson stated the tower has the ability to co- locate three providers but this is not the same thing because it only has one antenna. He suggest the agreement restrict equipment to assure it does not block another provider. Councilmember Elvig asked whether radio waves and potential revenue producing cellular waves are compatible. Mr. Jameson explained the current amateur radio bands (2 meter) currently coexist on multiple towers in the Twin Cities. Public Works Committee / October 18, 2011 Page 4 of 12