Minutes - Council - 10/11/2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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John Enstrom, 8702 - 181 Avenue NW, expressed concern with his land being abused with utilities and easements. He said he would like to bring up some points regarding power lines. Mr. Enstrom said the City wants to expand one power line from 80 feet to 150 feet. As a member of the Environmental Policy Board, he would like to save the environment. The trees that would be taken down are more than the City has planted in the last 20 years. He is concerned about trees being needlessly cut down, feeling that a tree 75 feet away and 10 feet tall will never reach the power line so it is ridiculous to cut it down. Mr. Enstrom was also concerned that herbicides are being used to kill the trees since they are carcinogens and found to cause cancer in people. He believes the intention is to get this area cleared out to 150 feet wide and when this line was put in 40 years ago, the landowners were told they would only claim 80. Mr. Enstrom noted that electricity hasn't changed in that time and asked why the width would be doubled now. He pointed out that if a developer comes in they have to replace any trees they take down but for this project, no trees are being replaced. He thinks the City should be working with the community to make it better instead of getting electric the cheapest way they can. There are alternatives to having cheaper electricity and wires. Mayor Ramsey stated this would be discussed at public hearings for the utilities companies. Councilmember Backous left the Chambers at 7:27 p.m. Councilmember Strommen questioned if Mr. Enstrom was given a chance to opt out of herbicide. Mr. Enstrom confirmed he has been asked and there are several companies that do this. He said he makes them sign a contract to not use herbicide. City Administrator Ulrich advised staff could work with Mr. Enstrom on a draft resolution to the City requesting that utility companies minimize the damage they do when putting in utilities. They could address the EPB when they come into the community and work on the policy to meet standards. Councilmember McGlone stated he has a concern with that option since this is a private matter between the property easement seller and the City. Mayor Ramsey said all the Council can do is ask the utilities to not clear -cut. Councilmember McGlone stated he has two properties that go on the same line as Mr. Enstrom. He noted the utilities company asked him if they could cut trees, but they could have done it anyway. He cautioned against directing staff and a Board to move ahead with this. Mayor Ramsey stated staff would work on this matter. 4. CONSENT AGENDA Motion by Councilmember Elvig, seconded by Councilmember Wise, to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda: City Council / October 11, 2011 Page 4of17