Agenda - Council - 11/07/2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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values were also highly placed and part of the value statement. She felt finding that balance has been a challenge and it would be good to get some assistance. The Council's consensus was to request more information on collaboration with the U of M Law School Land Use Clinic and direct staff to further define the scope of the project for Council consideration. 1) Update on Long Term Road Maintenance Initiative City Administrator Ulrich reviewed the staff report and provided an update on a snag with the proposed franchise fee. He explained that in order to do a franchise fee, the City needs approval from the utilities so staff met with Connexus about approval of a franchise fee. At the meeting, Connexus said fine but they have to notify their customers that the franchise fee is for the City and not Connexus. City Administrator Ulrich provided the Council with a copy of the customer notice Connexus proposed to send, noting it would result in pushback from residents, customers, and the Chamber of Commerce. He asked Council if they planned to respond to such a postcard or preferred to adjust the funding amounts so a franchise fee may survive. Councilmember Elvig asked if it is pushback from customers or from the utility company. City Administrator Ulrich stated it is clear that Connexus thinks any increase to the utility bill reflects poorly on them so they want to distance themselves from it. Councilmember McGlone referenced comments made by Mr. LeTourneau when the option of franchise fees was presented at the EDA. It was noted that concern was expressed by business owners and residents that the City was going to do a franchise fee; however, after speaking with staff and being given all of the information, all understood and were in agreement once they understood the issue. He urged the Council to not let the Connexus notice scare them and stated he felt the Council was on the right track. Public Works Director Olson stated it is important to get out the word that the Council has not yet made a decision and is still in the public engagement and input gathering process. He noted staff conducted a randomly selected survey and has created a communication plan to hold meetings in neighborhoods, provide fact sheets, and let residents comment and make suggestions on the issues facing the City. He suggested informing the public about what is before the Council and the many options in how to accomplish the City's goals. Public Works Director Olson stated staff has developed a website, not yet launched, with an online questionnaire and links to the fact sheets, schedule for public input opportunities, and reconstruction program implementation. He requested Council direction on the communication plan and website. Mayor Ramsey noted a comment on the web page indicates the projects will be constructed by the fall of 2012 and asked how that can be accomplished without implementing a franchise fee. Public Works Director Olson explained there is a candidate project, Garnet Street, that staff feels would be an excellent show of how it would benefit the community. This information will be presented to the Council at its next meeting along with an alternate funding source. If approved, City Council Work Session / October 18, 2011 Page 6 of 11