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Mr. Byers indicated that is probably not an option with the agreement but he will bring that <br /> question back to his staff. <br /> Councilmember Elvig stated he realizes the reluctance of Metro Transit to include fare language <br /> in the agreement but he would support inclusion of parameters that a distance fare should be <br /> close to Anoka's rate. He also supported inclusion of language about extended bus service. <br /> Mayor Ramsey stated his reluctance to consider a "handshake" agreement. <br /> Councilmember McGlone stated the City of Ramsey is everything that everyone has dreamed <br /> about for a train station, noting the building next to the parking ramp will have 300 transit - <br /> oriented residents. In addition, the VA clinic opens in a few days. Councilmember McGlone <br /> asked Mr. Byers to bring back the whole message about Ramsey, noting the City is not being <br /> unreasonable and he thinks the agreement language can be tweaked so all reap a better benefit. <br /> Public Works Director Olson stated it has been discussed to work with bus users; however, there <br /> is a timeline issue because the Master Cooperation, Funding and Delegation Agreement needs to <br /> be approved so funds can be transferred. He noted that approval could be considered contingent <br /> on the Transit Taxing District Agreement. <br /> Mayor Ramsey stated it is important to convey the fact that the City has made a large investment <br /> in The COR that will directly benefit Northstar. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich asked if Metro Transit is open to a fixed amount in the agreement to <br /> allow Ramsey to study the feasibility of operating a pilot circulator bus. If that is an option, it <br /> would give the City an opportunity to survey businesses, colleges, and the VA to prove there is <br /> ridership and a need for expanded bus service. <br /> Councilmember Elvig supported the suggestion by City Administrator Ulrich. <br /> Mr. Byers stated he will bring that option back to the Metropolitan Council. He stated the <br /> message he received was that due to budget cuts, Metro Transit had to cut bus service in <br /> downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul in the heaviest ridership route and cannot afford to put <br /> service into areas that will not carry as many passengers. Mr. Byers advised that the budget <br /> forecast for next year also contains restrictions so he thinks Metro Transit will be resistant to <br /> starting new service in an untested area. <br /> Mayor Ramsey pointed out that Minneapolis has other transportation opportunities such as light <br /> rail but Ramsey has no other options. <br /> Councilmember Strommen agreed and noted the Metropolitan Council has made significant <br /> investment in rail and Ramsey wants that to be successful. She explained that feeder systems <br /> and flexibility are huge factors in that success and this is an investment in furthering the rail and <br /> making sure it is a success. <br /> City Council Work Session / November 7, 2011 <br /> Page 4 of 10 <br />