Minutes - Council - 07/09/2013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Council discussed the request and emphasized the need to consistently apply the policy to all businesses along Highway 10 and not show favor to one business over another. Development Services Manager Gladhill explained that one of the major findings of the Quality RV IUP was that it was known the property would be taken for the Armstrong overpass. The consensus of the City Council was that it does not make sense for the City or a business owner to make $200,000 of improvements to a property that will be taken for the Highway 10 project. The Council agreed with the benefit of assisting a business owner and concern was expressed about the delayed timeline should this item be referred to a future Work Session for discussion on the policy. City Administrator Ulrich noted the properties on the north side of Highway 10 are unique in being identified on an official map for the Armstrong interchange, corridor of Highway 10, and its interchanges. He stated that may be a policy finding that could be made to exclude identified properties from added value projects. Another approach is to require other improvements, such as landscaping, in lieu of pavement or to use lease payments for those improvements. Development Services Manager Gladhill stated the Council has provided good policy direction and recommended forwarding the policy discussion to the Planning Commission so it can be documented as part of the ordinance. The Council supported this suggestion, noting it would also shorten the timeline. 7.02: 15153 Nowthen Boulevard Property Development: Consider Further Public Input Process Alternatives Assistant to the City Administrator Brama reviewed the staff report, past consideration, and alternatives for obtaining further public input relating to the potential development of 15153 Nowthen Boulevard (former Municipal Center). It was noted staff recommends a hybrid approach of a traditional, structured Study Group that includes certain elements that were included in the OST process for the 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update. If approved, staff would also recommend approving a Work Order for consulting planning services to assist with the technical aspects of the process while allowing Staff to facilitate the process itself. Development Services Manager Gladhill stated with the recommended hybrid approach, the Study Group could set the agenda, hold single meetings, and keep on task. If approved, the consultant's focus would be on technical analysis and City staff would facilitate the process to manage the costs. City Administrator Ulrich noted the consultant work is a small percentage of the cost, about $5,000 of the $15,000 to $20,000 cost. He explained this option would get this process moving, which was seen as a high priority. City Administrator Ulrich stated the City received a $14,821 grant from the Metropolitan Council for this site that could be used for these costs. City Council / July 9, 2013 Page 6 of 10