Minutes - Council - 04/14/2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Asst. City Administrator/Economic Development Manager Brama stated Casey's has had sufficient time to complete its entitlement process, due diligence, and securing required permits. As far as deadlines and final approvals given in relation to the closing date, he stated there is always opportunity for the City to improve but this delay was not caused by City staff. Motion by Councilmember Shryock, seconded by Councilmember Kuzma, to Approve the request of Casey's General Store for a 21 -day extension. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Strommen, Councilmembers Shryock, Kuzma, Johns, LeTourneau, and Williams. Voting No: Councilmember Riley. 7.08: Consider Authorization of Funding to Travel to Washington, D.C. City Administrator Ulrich presented a request and recommendation for approval to expend up to $5,500 to accommodate travel to Washington, D.C. for a delegation of up to five (three Councilmembers, City Administrator Ulrich, and Transportation Consultant Elwyn Tinklenberg) to identify and secure funding for the Highway 10 improvement and the rail separation projects. Mayor Strommen stated the City has spent the last few years investing in a relationship with the City's legislative delegation and that delegation has made trips to Ramsey to support its efforts. She stated Ramsey has not lobbied in Washington, D.C. for several years so a visit is important in light of current Congress conversations relating to highway improvements and rail safety. She stated the Council has been judicious with its travel and she is supportive of this lobbying effort as it is an important investment to continue those relationships. Councilmember LeTourneau stated when Washington representatives have come to Ramsey to show their support, they have been in line with this need so for Ramsey to visit Washington, D.C. and be introduced to their partners, allows them to move the message forward more effectively. He stated this is a justifiable trip that will result in future benefit. Councilmember Riley asked for clarification on the purpose of the trip and what interchange improvements will be advocated. City Administrator Ulrich stated the delegation will advocate for all Highway 10 corridor upgrades including the Ramsey and Sunfish Boulevards interchange. He noted there is a pending bill before the State to consider the entire Highway 10 corridor so part of the effort will be to put forward the `big picture' for this corridor and critical need for highway improvements. Councilmember Riley agreed that the entire corridor needs to be addressed. Mayor Strommen asked staff to assure the documentation reflected this broader focus. Councilmember Shryock stated the Highway 10 Subcommittee and staff have been diligent in meeting with the City of Anoka, Anoka County, and other interested entities with regard to the Highway 10 corridor and are mindful this is a large project involving many communities. She noted that any headway made with smaller projects, making up the whole, will be of benefit. In City Council / April 14, 2015 Page 10 of 12