Minutes - Public Works Committee - 09/16/2014

Home

6.02: Request for No Parking Zone on 150th Lane Across From Ramsey Elementary Public Works Superintendent Riemer reviewed the staff report and indicated that the City is working with the Police Department during the busy times. Chairperson Backous noted he was contacted by a resident with concerns over parking on event days in this area. He questioned whether it would be feasible to block off one side of the street for event days. He also suggested putting up signs on event days to help direct parking. Motion by Councilmember Riley, seconded by Councilmember Kuzma, to recommend that the City Council not restrict road parking on 150 Lane at this time, and work with the Police Department as needed. Further discussion: Mayor Strommen commented there is a real problem during events. She stated if "no parking" signs are put up, another issue is raised of where to park. She noted at very busy times there are cars parked on the grass. Chairperson Backous stated the school district has to provide parking, since it is their event and their property. It is their responsibility to find a solution. Councilmember Kuzma said he is open to testing the restriction of parking on event nights. If that is not a viable solution, the Committee can revisit the issue. He suggested a solution could be to bus in from another parking lot, in an extreme case. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Backous, Councilmembers Riley, and Kuzma. Absent: Voting No: None. Councilmember Riley left the meeting at 7:13 p.m. 6.03: Review draft Special Assessment Policy for City Improvement Projects City Engineer Westby reviewed the staff report and noted the areas of the Special Assessment Policy that need to be considered and possibly revised. One of the more difficult measurements in considering an assessment method is the front footage. This item will require further discussion. He asked if the Committee would like to consider utility assessments now or later; or whether this policy should focus on streets. He noted there are City Charter complications in considering these assessments. Councilmember Kuzma inquired if the League of Minnesota Cities does have a standard they recommend, or if each city sets their policy independently. City Engineer Westby responded each city drafts their own policy. He explained the only standard is that the assessment cannot be more than the value of the property. Councilmember Kuzma asked how thorough the City of Ramsey's policy is. City Engineer Westby pointed out Appendix B, which is attached to this case, is the history of the assessment practices. There have been some assessments for various projects, and he Public Works Committee / September 16, 2014 Page 7 of 9