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Anoka has now adopted a plan for the intersections of Highway 10 at Thurston and Fairoak. He <br />noted that the City was able to build on the momentum of rail safety in regard to improved <br />crossings and the relationship to Highway 10. He stated that while the bills were not passed, the <br />City received a great opportunity' to present their case and position themselves for the next <br />legislative session. He believed that there would be transportation funds available through the <br />next legislative session, and believed that Ramsey and Highway 10 would be well positioned. <br />He commended Congressman Emmer for his support and continued cooperation with the City. <br />He reported that the Senate is moving ahead with the six-year long-term plan, noting that only <br />three years are funded as proposed. He stated that the current bill runs out in July and believed it <br />to be highly likely that a short-term extension would be passed. He believed that the City was <br />well positioned in regard to MnDOT, specifically with rail crossing safety, noting that all the <br />crossings identified by the City were included on the priority list. He stated that while he was <br />disappointed that the City did not gain the funding requested, he believed that the City is well <br />positioned for the next legislative session. <br />Mayor Strommen stated that the Subcommittee felt that it would be important for Mr. <br />Tinklenberg to provide an update on the work that was completed during his last contract and the <br />legislative session as well as review the focus of his work included in his proposal. She noted <br />that the focus of his work has shifted from the five items included in the last contract to the three <br />items proposed in this plan. <br />Councilmember Kuzma referenced the Anoka plan and questioned how that would equate to <br />working with Ramsey. <br />Mr. Tinklenberg stated that the legislature can now see evidence that Anoka is on board with a <br />plan. He stated that it appears that Anoka spent the time internally preparing their plan to get <br />their portion in order and has now joined the team and provided testimony as well. <br />City Administrator Ulrich stated that there is a working group setup through the County that is <br />composed of members from the Cities of Anoka, Ramsey, Andover and Anoka County. He <br />stated that the working group provides the message that the cities are not working against each <br />other but together to solve the problem. <br />Councilmember Riley questioned what the benefit of continuing this work now rather than <br />pausing this until January 1st. <br />Mr. Tinklenberg believed that there would be a short-term bill that the City could possibly be <br />included on. He noted that it would be important for the City to be on the tour with <br />Congressman Nolan and to continue work with Congressman Emmer's staff. He noted that the <br />legislative staff is not on pause and is continuing their planning, noting that Committees will be <br />doing tours this fall of potential projects. He believed that being on that tour and following up to <br />work with those individuals after the tour would be necessary. He stated that the City can also <br />continue to coordinate efforts with neighboring communities. <br />City Council Work Session / July 28, 2015 <br />Page 2 of 7 <br />