Minutes - Public Works Committee - 10/20/2015

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Community Development Director Gladhill answered the medians mostly are at the request of the developer and sometimes by request of the neighborhood. The purpose is to improve the quality of the neighborhood. The City does not have the manpower to maintain them. If the City takes on a few to maintain, then the City will receive requests to maintain more. As noted in the previous agenda item, a policy is needed to determine responsibilities of maintenance. Councilmember Shryock suggested while designing these medians keep in mind the daylilies will spread. The medians could become a self-maintained area once the daylilies mature. Adding rock or other landscape material may inhibit weed growth. She pointed out having low maintenance plantings in the middle of the median should be considered. Chairperson Riley clarified the question related to this item is whether river rock should be used or another substance that will be discussed and approved with Public Works. Community Development Director Gladhill confirmed this is the question before the Committee. Councilmember Johns asked if the City owns this median, and sought confirmation that the homeowner wanted to work with a landscaper working pro bono. Public Works Superintendent Riemer responded the City does own the median and confirmed the use of a pro bono landscaper. He acknowledged the City will still own the median. Councilmember Shryock reasoned if there is a sidewalk, part of the maintenance responsibility lies with the homeowners. Why not use this policy with medians. Community Development Director Gladhill replied part of the reason is assessments. Being the medians are in the middle, they become more of a public entity. Motion by Councilmember Shryock, seconded by Councilmember Johns, to recommend that the City Council direct Sweetbay Ridge to propose an alternative base material acceptable to the Public Works Superintendent and subsequently allow said private improvement within the right of way for 161st Avenue. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Riley, Councilmembers Johns and Shryock. Voting No: None. 5.03: Consider Vacating Permanent Road Easement over a portion of 14911 Ramsey Blvd and the Parcel to the North with a Property Identification Number (PIN) of 22-32- 25-33-0017 Community Development Director Gladhill reviewed the staff report and noted the adjacent property owner is willing to assume responsibility for this easement. He commented the sign for Ramsey Market lies in the right of way. Election signs are frequently put in this easement. He said some residents are aware this is a public right of way and call to express their concerns. There are a lot of unnecessary disagreements with this parcel. If this request is approved, it will Public Works Committee/ October 20, 2015 Page 4 of 10