Agenda - Council Work Session - 10/29/2013

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In 2012, the City used an average growth rate of 260 households per year. This was a general assumption for planning purposes, but was an update of the assumptions used in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. The City acknowledges that growth is not linear, and that future growth is a result of a number of assumptions. Based on a number of market factors, the City believes that the actual average growth rate is likely somewhere between the City's 2012 forecast assumptions (not adopted as part of the Comprehensive Plan) and the Metropolitan Council's Preliminary Forecasts. For illustrative purposes, we are using an assumption of 200 households per year to arrive at a recommended forecast amount (still lower that current 2030 forecasts): Forecast Type Year (2040) Households 13,500 Population 30,500 Employment 7,000 Major Growth Factors In addition to a number of factors, Ramsey has identified two (2) major growth factors as it relates to this stage of review; 1) Transportation Capacity and; 2) Water Supply Capacity. Regardless of future growth forecasts, Ramsey finds that it is important to address the regional transportation issues in Ramsey, most notably Highway 10. This system is already operating at Level of Service F. Any comment in support of reduced forecasts is not a reflection that any focus on Highway 10 and Highway 47 improvements should be lost. For some time, Ramsey has been studying an alternative water supply (surface water from the Mississippi River) to address depleting ground water supply. This is not only a benefit to the City, but to the region. Ramsey does not believe this issue should be solved at the local level. Ramsey appreciates the Metropolitan Council's support in addressing this issue on a regional level. Next Steps Ramsey will be considering a public process to reach out to its residents in advance of the Official Comment Period. We appreciate this opportunity to comment early in the process and be part of the development of the forecasts. These comments are simply preliminary. The City of Ramsey needs more time to review the assumptions and methodology to better understand the impacts to Ramsey. City of Ramsey 7550 Sunwood Drive NW Ramsey, MN 55303 763-427-1410 www.cityoframsey.com City of RAMSEY Preliminary Response — Preliminary 2040 Forecasts (10/29/13)