Minutes - Council - 03/28/2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

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consultant and firm without knowing more about the expertise available through other consultants as well. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that although he would like to move forward on this in conjunction with the work being done on the Comprehensive Plan update, the approval is not necessarily time sensitive. He noted that going out for RFQ could result in a low bidder atmosphere and that does not necessarily provide the product desired by the City. He noted that through that type of process you often receive a cookie cutter response and plan provided rather than tools and plans specific to the community and the budgeting desires. Mayor Strommen agreed that through the RFQ process you often get a cookie cutter response and therefore would prefer this method of choosing professionals that the staff has experience with and can address the unique aspects of the community. She stated that she appreciates working with consultants that can address the unique elements and amenities the community has. Councilmember Johns stated that as a prior member of the Park and Recreation Commission, she can speak to the need for this type of plan. She noted that without the long-term plan, things simply do not get accomplished. She stated that the City has also worked with Mr. Jacobson in the past and would support using his services as he provides high quality work. Community Development Director Gladhill noted that the cost of $50,000 is very average for this type of consulting services and noted that while the City could probably obtain a lower price quote, they would most likely then receive a cookie cutter type plan rather than a plan tailored to the needs and desires of the community. Councilmember LeTourneau stated that there has been a lot of talk about the desire for a community center and asked if this would identify that type of element. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that while this plan would focus more on parks and trails, they would hope to hear input from the community during this process as well and could potentially address. He stated that the community center element could be a good use of the Resilient Communities Program, noting that the students could assist in gathering a plethora of information that will help determine how other community centers function and are funded. Councilmember Shryock stated that as another past member of the Park and Recreation Commission, she can also speak to the need for a master plan for that group to assist in long-term needs and the ability to plan and accomplish those items. She also believed that it would be a huge benefit to work with a consultant that has knowledge of the community that could assist in providing a plan fit to the unique amenities and natural resources of Ramsey. She noted that she was excited to see this process moving forward as there has long been a need for this master plan. City Council/March 28,2017 Page 10 of 12