Minutes - Public Works Committee - 10/20/2015

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5. COMMITTEE BUSINESS 5.01: Consider Initial Direction on Development of Policy for Private Improvements within Public Rights of Way Community Development Director Gladhill reviewed the staff report and explained many rights of way are being cared for in creative ways. He said a homeowners association is great for this, but not always available. Having a policy in place and a clear maintenance agreement will help in getting a HOA or property management company to execute it. Design standards must be drawn up as well. Staff is looking for ideas and thoughts to help develop a more formal policy and standards. He reviewed the Draft Policy Statement for Landscaped Medians. He noted the City Attorney will review these documents as well. He said any HOA contracts for new developments will be reviewed prior to development. Councilmember Johns commented she prefers brick for landscaped areas, much like what Anoka has done. She noted mulch tends to get weedy. Community Development Director Gladhill explained a brick median would be more of an enhanced design. It could cause problems with irrigation systems. The cost of brick is much higher as well. Councilmember Johns inquired if irrigation is required, unless it is native plants. Community Development Director Gladhill responded it is required. This is considered improvement to property the city owns. The city wants to ensure the plantings survive. Public Works Superintendent Riemer noted they have to be cautious of the brick because of the salt. The brick will look good at first, but if not sealed properly, it will worsen quickly. He stated he prefers using shredded mulch since it handles the elements better. Councilmember Johns commented she thought irrigation may not be needed if native plants were used, and there was no HOA. Community Development Director Gladhill said there have been past due balances on water bills when an HOA dissolves and fails to exist. He suggested the goal should be if there is going to be landscape, then there should be a landscaper. Councilmember Shryock commented it would seem like the soil concept would be good to check into. The maintenance and cost seem easier to handle. She questioned why the City has not gone back to the groups that have come in with an HOA, and then fall off and don't maintain the medians. Community Development Director Gladhill answered there is no way to go back to those groups, since they do not exist. There are issues in collecting and overdue balances are left. Public Works Committee/ October 20, 2015 Page 2 of 10