Minutes - Council Work Session - 01/17/2012

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Mayor Pro Tem Wise noted an abutting property owner may be willing to purchase the property, even if it is not developable. Councilmember Elvig indicated he was pleased to learn that one - quarter of the properties are available for sale and supported moving forward. He supported determining which tot lots are being used, which ones are not being used, and to look first at the properties where the contributor can be easily identified. City Attorney Goodrich stated he will talk with a title company to get input on the best process. Mayor Pro Tem Wise stated staff can determine whether some properties are developable and act on those properties first Councilmember Tossey noted that all of the parks and area demographics are different. He supported keeping tot lot parks that are being used and handling this effort in a cost effective manner. City Administrator Ulrich suggested staff first proceed with the eight salable lots. With the 24 dedicated/restricted properties, it will depend on how much the parcel is worth as a park. He suggested staff gather additional information on the City's maintenance costs and determine whether the park is being used. Councilmember McGlone stated he is not suggesting to get rid of every park in Ramsey but the Council needs to make decisions from financial, maintenance, and staff utilization standpoints. He stated he has three years of experience in being on the Council and does not need more study. Councilmember McGlone pointed out that the public will have an opportunity to provide input and protest to the City and the court. He supported the Council making a sound business decision and moving forward. Councilmember Strommen asked for a balance sheet, which is needed for a sound business decision, so the City does not spend more to get rid of the property than it would ever receive in taxes or spend in maintenance. Councilmember McGlone stated the Council also needs to look at tax revenue in the future, current and future maintenance costs, and liability on the City. He requested more information on the eight sellable parcels. The consensus of the Council was to direct staff to move forward with rezoning and marketing properties 34 and 13, which both have clear title and are not being used for anything today. The Council discussed property 11, Water Tower Complex, which has clear title. Councilmember Elvig stated another option is to talk about redevelopment of the entire region and create more viable retail. This would mean holding this property until a more viable time and that is what he hears residents prefer. City Council Work Session / January 17, 2012 Page 3of10