Minutes - Council Work Session - 01/17/2012

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Councilmember Elvig asked whether, much like the Sunwood realignment, the City can count its contribution towards this project as part of its investment into the overpass project. Public Works Director Olson stated staff will start to track those dollars because the more the City invests the better its grants will be ranked. Councilmember Elvig asked if the City needs a letter of no prejudice so the City does not lose these dollars as part of that initiative. Public Works Director Olson stated if the City is preparing the application for a large grant, staff will be sure to include that letter but he was not sure if a letter of no prejudice improves grant ratings. He noted it is a great step to have Mn/DOT score the City's grant high enough on its independent grant process and Mn/DOT has told staff numerous times that the City has done a good job in right- sizing this project. Councilmember McGlone asked whether these grant dollars are only for that stretch of non- roadway and there is no other use for the dollars. City Engineer Himmer confirmed that is the case. Matt Kuker, 7533 Sunwood Drive NW, stated he is working with the PACT Charter School, which is an asset to Ramsey, and got good competitive bids. He believed the School was a great use for the facility and will get rid of the blight condition. Eric Henry, 15491 Xkimo Street NW, Hope Fellowship Chairman, stated the Church appreciates its relationship with the City and was pleased with its location on 167 Avenue. He indicated they own 30 acres along Highway 10 and are looking to sell that property. Mr. Henry stated they are open to those discussions and would like their property to become more marketable. Senior Planner Gladhill advised the property is zoned commercial. Councilmember McGlone asked Mr. Kuker how close they are to closing the deal with the Charter School. Mr. Kuker stated the school will present a formal letter of intent at their February 16, 2012, board meeting. The School still needs a letter of approval from the Department of Education. Public Works Director Olson asked about the number of students. Mr. Kuker indicated there will be up to 300 students initially and if that fills instantly, there is a large parking lot and the hockey rink could also accommodate a building. He explained the property is currently listed for sale but they would lease to the School. Councilmember Elvig supported moving forward with the grant and to hold a closed session on terms and how to negotiate with the property owners. City Council Work Session / January 17, 2012 Page 7 of 10