Minutes - Council Work Session - 11/05/2008

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Finance Officer Lund stated that pages 10 -13, under project number, the first 2 numbers represent when the project actually came into the CIP. She noted that the back of the book has the different funding sources for the projects. Mayor Gamec asked about the water treatment plant. Public Works Director Olson stated that designs are included for 2009 and construction is planned for 2010 and 2011. Finance Officer Lund noted that there was a study done four years ago and the rates and charges will be coming before the Council with a proposed increase of 5 %. Mayor Gamec encouraged the Council to contact Finance Officer Lund or Public Works Director Olson if they have any additional comments or questions on the CIP. 3) Discussion of Study Group to Review Rum River Scout Camp Property City Administrator Ulrich stated that the Scout Camp property along the Rum River has been up for consideration for sale. He stated that it is currently in their plans to try to market the property. He stated that it was thought it may be an opportune time to identify resources for the re -use of this property for conservation or development or even a combination of those two. He stated that the first step of that process would be taking a staff approach and bringing in some outside agency people and conservation groups to see what grant opportunities or assistance from outside the City there would be to get this land for public use. He stated that, at this point, staff recommends that the Council give their blessing to a staff study group to develop a list of the resources and opportunities that might be available. Councilmember Olson asked if there would be any synergy opportunities in rolling the land down the Mississippi in with this discussion. City Administrator Ulrich stated that the same type of funding may apply, so they certainly could combine them. Mayor Gamec asked how the Council felt about the County purchasing the land. Councilmember Dehen stated that he feels the County or the State may be interested in this land. He stated that he feels it would be nice if the City could purchase the land, but the money needed would be significant. City Administrator Ulrich stated that the City would definitely want both the County and the State at the table when this is discussed. Councilmember Olson stated that she checked with the County on another issue and was told that there was absolutely zero money available to buy parkland. City Council Work Session / November 5, 2008 Page 3 of 5