Minutes - Council - 12/08/2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Kuzma stated that the job of the Council is to look to the future of the City, noting that the City is in a growth mode and it would behoove the Council to look towards future generations and the decision to accept 37 acres for a future park would be a great asset to the community. Mayor Strommen opened the floor for public comments. Bill Kingston, 15760 Andre Street NW, stated that he has been working with the developer and staff on this issue. He referenced the question regarding the difference between the 24 acres and 37 acres. He explained that the 24 acres is already owned by the City and therefore not in this discussion. He noted that the discussion would be regarding the 37 acres that Northfork Inc. is willing to sell to the City for very cheap. He stated that the City currently does not have access to Lake Itasca as the lake is only accessed by private residents at this time and noted that the acquisition of this parcel would give the City and its residents access to that lake. He referenced that this decision would allow Northfork Inc. the ability to move forward on the development of two parcels, which would generate income for the City as well. Councilmember Johns stated that she supports this item, noting that she had been on the Park Commission for 20 years and this area was always a huge focus. She noted that this would provide access to the lake that is not currently available and is a nice feature. She stated that this option is very affordable and would be a great amenity to the City, which is also supported by the Park Commission. Motion by Councilmember Johns, seconded by Councilmember Shryock, to Adopt Resolution #15-12-297 Acquiring 37 Acres for Lake Itasca Community Park, and Satisfying Park Dedication for Northfork Inc. Further discussion: Councilmember Riley stated that the price and negotiations have not been discussed as well as how the value was calculated. He was surprised that a motion was made when these factors were not discussed. Mayor Strommen stated that this is not a typical negotiation process, as this is the process the City follows to determine if park dedication fees or land is accepted. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that the beginning point for the 37 acres was $250,000 and argued that the developer also sees the value to community parks, which is how the $75,000 was negotiated. He provided additional details on the Northfork Inc. developments, park dedication and trail fees. Councilmember Williams stated that she is not trying to diminish the work that went into this issue but does not feel that this is the highest and best use of property on the tax rolls. She was concerned that the City is looking at acquiring 37 acres of property with so little discussion and noted that one of her goals on the Council is that the City not own so much land. She stated that she has a lot of concerns that this plan has been "on the books" for quite some time and is not being re-evaluated. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Strommen, Councilmembers Johns, Shryock, Kuzma, and LeTourneau. Voting No: Councilmembers Riley and Williams. City Council / December 8, 2015 Page 7 of 9