Agenda - Council - 01/10/2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Elvig stated he understood the Metropolitan Council WAC Committee is engaged in a large study that will look at demographics and estimate growth rates, using that criteria relating to availability of water. That study will be used by Mn/DOT to determine infrastructure for the next 10-15 years. Councilmember Elvig stated his concern that if it is determined Ramsey will have a hard time growing to capacity because it does not have water infrastructure, then other infrastructure will be reduced. He believed it was in the City's interest to have a policy that water is a regional problem, not just a Ramsey problem. Public Works Director Olson indicated that the City of Burnsville got one-third to one-half of its costs from the Legislature so there is some benefit by doing a water treatment facility. He stated staff can provide estimated costs and what would be needed from the Legislature. Councilmember Elvig pointed out this goes directly to rates and fees and if Ramsey wants to be competitive, it needs to be proactive to get a subsidy and build the system. Public Works Director Olson cautioned that there could be a change in policy at a regional level that puts Ramsey in a bind if it doesn't plan for the future. That is why staff recommends the water treatment facility not be removed. It would put the City in same situation as it is in with roads. Public Works Director Olson noted the City needs to plan for the future tax base and infrastructure by looking at all aspects of water, sewer, and utilities before making those decisions. City Administrative Ulrich stated the builder's meeting will be held in December or January and that information will be brought back to the Council. Deputy City Administrator Nelson asked about the items staff identified outside the scope of the sewer and water updates and whether staff should proceed based on the recommendation. Acting Mayor Wise stated he does not like basing building permit fees on project valuation because it takes the same effort by the inspector. Council consensus was reached to adopt the proposed changes in the development fees/charges, direct staff to request bids for both a comprehensive sewer and water system study, and set the developer Open House meeting for Tuesday, December 6, 2011, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 2) Discuss Support of Fiscal Disparities Resolution City Administrator Ulrich reviewed the staff report. He recommended the City continue the current fiscal disparities policy because of the net benefit. Councilmembers McGlone, Tossey, and Acting Mayor Wise indicated that while they did not find fiscal disparities to be fair, they would support the resolution because of the net benefit to Ramsey. Council consensus was reached to support adoption of a resolution requesting no change in Fiscal Disparities. City Council Work Session / November 22, 2011 Page 6 of 10